Pet-friendly plants to brighten your home without worries
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If you share your home with a curious cat or a plant-loving pup, you already know how hard it can be to keep your plants safe…and your pets safer. Cats and dogs love to sniff, paw at, and sometimes chew on houseplants, and while it may seem harmless, many popular indoor plants can actually be toxic to pets.
Ingesting certain plants can lead to symptoms like vomiting, tremors, seizures, or worse. The good news? There are plenty of beautiful, low-maintenance plants that are completely safe for both cats and dogs.
Of course, even safe plants can cause a mild upset stomach if your pet eats too much, so it’s always smart to keep your plants out of reach when possible.
With so many beautiful, non-toxic houseplants to choose from, you can create a cozy, plant-filled space that’s safe for everyone!
Tip
If you’re ever unsure about a specific plant, the ASPCA’s Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants List is an excellent resource for checking what’s pet-friendly
- 1. Prayer Plant (Maranta leuconeura)
- 2. Hoyas (Hoya spp.)
- 3. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum)
- 4. Venus Fly Trap (Dionaea muscipula)
- 5. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis)
- 6. Rattle Snake Plant (Calathea lancifolia)
- 7. Friendship Plant (Pilea involucrata)
- 8. Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera )
- 9. Orchid (Orchidaceae)
- 10. Chinese Money Plant (Pilea peperomioides)
- 11. Haworthia (Haworthia spp.)
- 12. Echeveria (Echeveria spp.)
- 13. African Violets (Saintpaulia)
- 14. Air Plant (Tillandsia stricta)
- 15. Polka Dot Plant (Hypoestes phyllostachya)
- 16. Bromeliad (Bromeliaceae)
- 17. Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans)
- 18. Peperomia (Peperomia spp.)
- 19. Burro's Tail (Sedum morganianum)
- 20. String of Hearts (Apocynaceae)
- 21. Birds Nest Fern (Asplenium nidus)
- FAQ
1. Prayer Plant (Maranta leuconeura)
The prayer plant is a wonderful way to bring color to your home without the worry. The leaves gently fold up in the evening and open with the morning light. Its bold patterns and deep green, red, or purple hues add a bit of magic to any room!
Care
The prayer plant grows best in bright, indirect light and prefers consistently moist soil that’s not soggy. It doesn’t like dry conditions, so aim for a warm, humid environment between 65-85°F (18-29°C). Water when the top 25% of the soil feels dry, and feed once a month during spring and summer to keep the plant healthy and vibrant.
Where to Buy
Maranta ‘Red Prayer Plant’
2. Hoyas (Hoya spp.)
Hoyas are known for their thick, waxy leaves and trailing woody stems. This pet-friendly houseplant comes in many beautiful varieties, and its clusters of star-shaped flowers are very fragrant. The sculptural look and easy-going nature of hoyas makes them a favorite.
Care
Hoyas prefer bright, indirect light but can handle lower light conditions as well. They don’t need frequent watering. Just keep an eye on the leaves, when they start to feel thin or look a bit wrinkled, it’s a sign your plant is thirsty.
Where to Buy
Hoya Carnosa ‘Tricolor’
Hoya Carnosa ‘Wax Plant’
3. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum)
Spider plants are a classic, pet-safe favorite known for their long, thin, striped leaves that arch gracefully from the center. They’re completely non-toxic and are often one of the first houseplants recommended to new plant parents thanks to their hardy nature.
Care
Spider plants thrive in bright, indirect light or partial shade. They’re very resilient but should be kept out of direct sun, which can scorch their delicate leaves. Water only when the soil feels dry to the touch, and they’ll reward you with fresh growth, and even baby spiderettes you can propagate and share!
Where to Buy
Live Spider House Plant, 12″
Chlorophytum comosum ‘Bonnie’
4. Venus Fly Trap (Dionaea muscipula)
The venus flytrap is completely non-toxic to pets. This carnivorous plant catches small insects with its jaw-like leaves and makes a fun, conversation-starting addition to any plant collection, especially for those who like something a little different.
Care
Despite its wild appearance, it’s actually very low-maintenance. Venus flytraps thrive with at least four hours of direct sunlight a day and prefer distilled water to keep their sensitive roots healthy. Plant it in a mix of peat moss or sphagnum moss, and avoid fertilizing. Believe it or not, it only needs one or two small insects a month to stay satisfied.
5. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis)
The Boston fern is a lush, air-purifying plant with soft, feathery fronds that’s completely safe for both cats and dogs. Its full, vibrant foliage will bring a touch of classic greenery to your space. Boston Ferns are also a lovely option for hanging baskets.
Care
This plant thrives in bright, indirect light and loves humidity, making it perfect for bathrooms or kitchens. Keep the soil consistently moist (but not soggy), and mist the leaves regularly to keep humidity levels up.
Where to Buy
Boston Fern
6. Rattle Snake Plant (Calathea lancifolia)
The rattlesnake plant is completely non-toxic to pets. Known for its long, wavy leaves with bold green patterns on top and deep purple underneath, this plant will definitely add a dramatic touch to your home! What makes it even more special is how its leaves gently move throughout the day in response to light, almost as if the plant is dancing!
Care
The rattlesnake plant thrives in low to medium light, away from direct sunlight that could scorch its beautiful leaves. Keep it in loose, well-draining soil and water it when the top inch feels dry. It enjoys a warm, humid environment with temperatures between 70-80°F (21-26°C). A little monthly fertilizer during the growing season will help it thrive. If your space is dry, mist its leaves or place the plant near a humidifier to keep those vibrant leaves happy and healthy.
Where to Buy
Calathea lancifolia ‘Rattlesnake’
Rattlesnake Plant 6″
7. Friendship Plant (Pilea involucrata)
The friendship plant is a pet-friendly choice that’s perfect for homes with curious pets. It features soft, crinkly leaves and a trailing growth habit, making it look amazing in shelves or hanging planters.
Care
The friendship plant loves high humidity and bright, indirect light or partial sun. It prefers to be kept consistently moist, so check the soil often and water when it starts to feel slightly dry on top. Because of its fragile stems, its best placed somewhere it won’t get bumbed or moved too much.
Where to Buy
Pilea Mollis Friendship Plant
8. Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera )
The Christmas cactus is a festive favorite that’s not only beautiful but also pet-friendly! Known for its vibrant blooms that appear during the winter months, it brings a pop of color right when most plants are slowing down. The flowers come in a range of colors, including red, white, pink, purple, and even yellow.
Care
This cactus prefers bright, indirect light and should be watered only when the top layer of soil feels dry. To keep it happy, especially in drier climates, place the pot on a saucer filled with wet gravel to increase humidity around the plant.
9. Orchid (Orchidaceae)
Orchids are an elegant and eye-catching flowering plant that’s non-toxic to pets. While they’re not harmful, it’s still best to keep them out of nibbling reach, as eating large amounts may cause mild stomach upset. With a wide variety of stunning colors and forms, their flowers can last for months.
Care
These tropical beauties do best in bright, indirect light. Water once a week during cooler months, and increase to twice a week in warmer weather to keep their roots healthy. Orchids enjoy a bit of humidity too, so placing them near a bathroom window or misting occasionally can help them thrive.
Where to Buy
Orchid ‘White Phalaenopsis’
Petite Pink Orchid
10. Chinese Money Plant (Pilea peperomioides)
Chinese money plants are known for their round, coin-like leaves that grow on slender stems, giving them a fun and modern look. This plant is non-toxic to both cats and dogs. Its bright green foliage makes it a cheerful addition to any room!
Care
Caring for this plant is simple, making it an ideal choice for beginners. It prefers bright, indirect light and, when it comes to watering, allow the top inch or two of soil to dry out before giving it a good drink. If the leaves start to droop, that’s a sign it needs to be watered.
Where to Buy
Pilea Peperomioides ‘Chinese Money’
Chinese Money Plant 4″
11. Haworthia (Haworthia spp.)
The Haworthia has striped green leaves which grow in tight rosettes, giving it a neat, almost architectural look. With its compact size and tidy form, this pet-friendly plant easily fits on small shelves and desks.
Care
Caring for a Haworthia is easy. Since it’s slow-growing, it doesn’t need much attention. It enjoys bright, indirect light and needs well-draining soil to prevent root rot.
Where to Buy
Haworthia fasciata ‘Big Band’ (4 inch)
Haworthia reinwardtii
12. Echeveria (Echeveria spp.)
Echeveria is a pet-safe succulent that’s loved for its neat, rosette shape and beautiful colors. The leaves can be green, silver, blue, red, or even have a soft lilac tone. This low-maintenance plant is a favorite for both beginners and seasoned succulent lovers!
Care
Give echeveria a bright spot where it can soak up 4-6 hours of sun a day, and let the soil dry out completely between watering.
Where to Buy
Echeveria ‘Ice Green’ (Rare)
Echeveria ‘Blue Atoll’
Echeveria ‘Dark Ice’
13. African Violets (Saintpaulia)
African Violets are a very popular, pet-safe houseplant. Their soft, velvety leaves and vibrant blooms in shades of purple can truly brighten up your home. Their compact size makes them perfect for windowsills or cozy corners.
Care
African Violets prefer bright, indirect light and do well even in low-light conditions. Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. They thrive in moderate indoor temperatures and appreciate a bit of humidity, making them a great fit for cozy living spaces.
14. Air Plant (Tillandsia stricta)
Air Plants are a fun and pet-safe addition to any home, especially if you’re looking for something a little out of the ordinary. They don’t need soil to grow and have a light, airy look with their delicate, curling leaves. You can display them on driftwood, in glass globes, or mounted on decorative boards for a modern, creative look.
Care
Air Plants don’t grow in soil; instead, just give them a soak in room-temperature water for 10 to 30 minutes every few weeks. In between waterings, a humid bathroom can help keep them happy by letting them absorb moisture from the air.
Where to Buy
Tillandsia Air Plant Ionantha Guatemala
Mystery Air Plant Trio
15. Polka Dot Plant (Hypoestes phyllostachya)
If you’re looking for a pet-friendly plant with personality, the Polka Dot Plant is a great pick. It adds a splash of color with its speckled pink, red, or white leaves. It’s safe for cats and dogs, though it’s still best to discourage nibbling, as eating large amounts might upset sensitive stomachs.
Care
To keep your polka dot plant happy, place it in bright, indirect light and keep the soil evenly moist, but not soggy. It enjoys a bit of humidity and will benefit from a monthly feeding during the spring and summer growing season.
Where to Buy
Hypoestes phyllostachya trio
16. Bromeliad (Bromeliaceae)
Bromeliad is a vibrant, pet-safe houseplant that will bring a tropical touch to your home. Its colorful blooms can last for several months, and it’s sure to brighten up your home without posing any risk to your pets.
Care
Bromeliads love bright, indirect sunlight and do best in rooms with a bit of humidity, like a kitchen or bathroom. Make sure to keep the soil lightly moist, not soggy.
Where to Buy
Bromeliad Vriesea Intenso Red
17. Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans)
Parlor palms have soft, feathery fronds that give off a laid-back, tropical feel. Their completely non-toxic to cats and dogs, so there’s no stress if your pets like to explore. When cared for properly, this slow-growing palm can thrive indoors for many years, sometimes even decades!
Care
Parlor palms prefer bright, indirect light but are also quite tolerant of lower light conditions, making them great for homes and offices. Keep the soil evenly moist, especially during the growing season, but avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. In winter, you can let the soil dry out a bit more between waterings. They also enjoy average home humidity, though they’ll appreciate the occasional misting.
Where to Buy
Chamaedorea elegans ‘Parlor Palm’
18. Peperomia (Peperomia spp.)
If you’re looking for a pet-safe plant that’s as charming as it is low-maintenance, peperomia is a wonderful pick. With its waxy, textured leaves and wide variety of colors and patterns, a peperomia plant would look stunning on any shelf or windowsill.
Care
Peperomia enjoys bright, indirect light; too much direct sun can be a bit harsh on its leaves. Water about once a week, or when the topsoil feels dry to the touch. A gentle mist every few days helps it feel right at home, especially in drier climates.
Where to Buy
Peperomia ‘Watermelon’
Peperomia ‘Napoli Nights’
19. Burro’s Tail (Sedum morganianum)
Burro’s Tail is a charming trailing succulent that’s totally safe for your pets. Its long, hanging stems are packed with plump, blue-green leaves that look like tiny beads strung together. This unique texture makes it a standout in hanging baskets, where it can spill over the sides beautifully.
Care
This succulent prefers bright, indirect light and doesn’t need much water. Too much handling can cause the delicate leaves to fall off, so try to place it somewhere it can grow without too much fuss.
Where to Buy
Sedum ‘Burrito’
Sedum Morganianum Burro’s Tail Cuttings
20. String of Hearts (Apocynaceae)
With delicate, heart-shaped leaves cascading down slender stems, string of hearts adds a whimsical touch to shelves, hanging planters, or window ledges. Since it’s non-toxic to both cats and dogs, it’s a great choice for homes with pets, though you might want to place it out of reach, as some pets may be tempted to tug or climb its vines.
Care
The string of hearts enjoys bright, indirect light and performs best when protected from harsh, direct sunlight. Water it sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. It prefers warm, dry conditions and benefits from a well-draining potting mix.
Where to Buy
Ceropegia woodii ‘String of Hearts’ variegata
String of Heart Variegata (4 inch)
21. Birds Nest Fern (Asplenium nidus)
Bird’s Nest Fern is a non-toxic houseplant, making it safe for both cats and dogs. Its bright green, wavy fronds grow in a neat rosette that looks like a little nest, adding a fresh, tropical look to any space. It’s perfect for low-light spots and brings life to bathrooms or cozy corners.
Care
This fern thrives in low light and loves the humidity found in bathrooms. It prefers loose, fast-draining soil and should be watered regularly, but avoid soggy soil. Fertilize once a month in spring and summer to keep it healthy. Just keep it out of direct sunlight to protect its delicate leaves which can easily become crisp.
Where to Buy
Bird’s Nest Fern
FAQ
Are pothos toxic to pets?
Yes, Pothos are toxic to both cats and dogs if ingested. They can cause oral irritation, vomiting, and drooling.
Are Monsteras toxic to pets?
Yes, Monsteras are toxic to pets. They contain insoluble calcium oxalates that can cause mouth irritation and stomach upset.
How to pet-proof indoor plants?
Place plants out of reach using shelves or hanging baskets, use deterrent sprays, or cover the soil with stones. Training your pet to avoid plants helps too.
Are banana plants toxic to pets?
No, Banana Plants are considered non-toxic to pets and safe to grow indoors.
What is the most toxic plant for pets?
Lilies are extremely toxic to cats, even in small amounts. Sago Palms are also highly toxic to both cats and dogs.
What is a safe alternative to Monstera?
The calathea is a great pet-safe alternative. It has bold, tropical foliage without the toxicity risks.
