I love filling my home with greenery, but as a pet owner, I have to be careful. Some plants look harmless but can be dangerous for cats and dogs. That’s why I always choose houseplants that are safe for cats and dogs. The last thing I want is for my furry friend to nibble on a toxic leaf and end up sick.
The good news? There are many of beautiful, non-toxic plants that brighten up a space without putting pets at risk. They clean the air, boost mood, and make any home feel fresh and inviting.
In this guide i will share 20 pet-safe houseplants that are easy to care for and completely safe for curious paws. Whether you are a new plant parent or an experienced one, you will find the perfect pet-friendly plant to bring into your home without any worries.
- Why Pet-Safe Plants Matter
- The Dangers of Toxic Plants
- How to Keep Pets Safe Around Plants
- Top 20 Pet-Safe Houseplants
- 1. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
- 2. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
- 3. Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens)
- 4. Money Tree (Pachira aquatica)
- 5. Calathea (Calathea spp.)
- 6. Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans)
- 7. Haworthia (Haworthia spp.)
- 8. Peperomia (Peperomia spp.)
- 9. Bird’s Nest Fern (Asplenium nidus)
- 10. Ponytail Palm (Beaucarnea recurvata)
- 11. Friendship Plant (Pilea involucrata)
- 12. Venus Flytrap (Dionaea muscipula)
- 13. Polka Dot Plant (Hypoestes phyllostachya)
- 14. Orchid (Orchidaceae)
- 15. Bromeliad (Bromeliaceae)
- 16. Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)
- 17. Prayer Plant (Maranta leuconeura)
- 18. Air Plants (Tillandsia spp.)
- 19. Baby Tears (Soleirolia soleirolii)
- 20. Fishbone Cactus (Epiphyllum anguliger)
- Tips for Keeping Pets and Plants Safe Together
Why Pet-Safe Plants Matter
If you have a cat or dog, you know how curious they can be. Whether it’s swatting at leaves, digging in the soil, or taking a nibble, pets love to explore plants. But not all houseplants are safe some can cause vomiting, seizures, or even worse. That’s why choosing houseplants that are safe for cats and dogs is so important.
The Dangers of Toxic Plants
Many common houseplants contain chemicals that can be harmful for pets. Even a small bite can lead to serious health issues. Some of the most toxic plants include:
Highly Toxic plants for pets:
- Lilies – Can cause kidney failure in cats.
- Pothos (Devil’s Ivy) – Can irritate the mouth and stomach.
- Sago Palm – Extremely poisonous, even in small amounts.
- Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane) – Causes swelling and difficulty breathing.
- Philodendron – Can lead to severe digestive issues.
How to Keep Pets Safe Around Plants
Even with pet-safe plants, it’s a good idea to take precautions:
Keep plants out of reach – Place them on high shelves or in hanging planters.
Train your pets – Teach them to avoid chewing on plants.
Provide alternatives – Offer cat grass or pet-friendly chew toys.
Watch for warning signs – If your pet is drooling, vomiting, or acting sick, check for chewed leaves.
By choosing non-toxic houseplants and taking a few precautions, you can enjoy a lush, green home without worrying about your pet’s safety.
Top 20 Pet-Safe Houseplants
Adding greenery to your home is a great way to boost your mood, improve air quality, and enhance your decor. But if you have pets, it’s important to choose houseplants that are safe for cats and dogs to avoid potential health risks. Luckily, there are plenty of beautiful, non-toxic plants that won’t harm your furry friends.
Here are 20 beautiful, non-toxic houseplants that are easy to care for and 100% safe for your pets.
1. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
The Spider Plant is one of the best low-maintenance houseplants for pet owners. It has long, arching green leaves with white stripes that add a lively touch to any room. This plant is also known for removing toxins from the air, making your home healthier. It grows quickly and produces small baby plants, called “spiderettes,” that can be spread easily.
Why it’s safe: Completely non-toxic to pets and helps purify the air.
Care tips: Thrives in indirect light; water when the soil is dry. Avoid overwatering.
Bonus: Produces “pups” that you can share with friends or replant.
2. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
The Boston Fern is a pet-friendly plant with beautiful, feathery fronds that bring a soft, lush feel to any home. It loves high humidity, making it a great choice for bathrooms or kitchens. If the leaves start to dry out or turn yellow, misting the plant can help keep it happy.
Why it’s safe: Completely non-toxic and safe for cats and dogs.
Care tips: Prefers indirect light and moist soil. Avoid letting it dry out.
Bonus: Adds a tropical, elegant feel to your space.
3. Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens)
The Areca Palm is a popular indoor plant that gives off tropical vibes while being safe for pets. With its soft, arching fronds, it’s an excellent choice for adding height and greenery to a room. It also helps improve air quality by filtering out toxins.
Why it’s safe: Completely pet-safe, with no toxic parts.
Care tips: Needs bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. Water when the top inch of soil is dry.
Bonus: Acts as a natural humidifier, which benefits both plants and pets.
4. Money Tree (Pachira aquatica)
The Money Tree is said to bring good luck and positive energy, and it’s completely safe for pets! Its braided trunk and lush green leaves make it a stylish addition to any home. Be careful not to overwater, as this plant prefers its soil to dry out between waterings.
Why it’s safe: Non-toxic to pets, making it a worry-free plant.
Care tips: Likes bright, indirect light and deep but infrequent watering.Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Bonus: Its unique braided trunk adds an interesting visual element to your home.
5. Calathea (Calathea spp.)
The Calathea plant is known for its stunning patterned leaves that move throughout the day, opening in the morning and folding at night. These plants thrive in humid environments, so they do well in bathrooms or kitchens. Their vibrant colors and bold patterns make them a striking addition to any home.
Why it’s safe: Completely non-toxic, even if your pet takes a nibble.
Care tips: Prefers indirect light and high humidity. Keep the soil damp but allow the top layer to dry slightly between waterings
Bonus: The leaves’ movement makes this plant feel almost alive!
6. Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans)
If you’re looking for a pet-safe palm, the Parlor Palm is a fantastic option. It has delicate, arching fronds and is one of the easiest palms to grow indoors. It can tolerate low light, making it a great plant for offices and apartments.
Why it’s safe: Non-toxic and perfectly safe for pets.
Care tips: Thrives in low to medium light and slightly moist soil. Avoid overwatering.
Bonus: One of the easiest palms to care for perfect for beginners!
7. Haworthia (Haworthia spp.)
If you love succulents but worry about pet safety, the Haworthia is a great option. This small, spiky succulent looks similar to an Aloe Vera plant but is completely non-toxic. It’s also very low-maintenance and can thrive with minimal attention.
Why it’s safe: A completely pet-safe succulent that’s easy to grow.
Care tips: Needs bright light and infrequent watering (about once every two weeks).
Bonus: Perfect for desks, shelves, or small spaces.
8. Peperomia (Peperomia spp.)
The Peperomia is a compact, easy-care plant with thick, rubbery leaves. It comes in a variety of colors and textures, making it a fun choice for plant lovers. It’s drought-tolerant and doesn’t require much attention, making it ideal for busy pet owners.
Why it’s safe: Non-toxic to pets and available in many beautiful varieties.
Care tips: Prefers indirect light and light watering when the soil feels dry.
Bonus: Great for small spaces, shelves, or desktops.
9. Bird’s Nest Fern (Asplenium nidus)
The Bird’s Nest Fern is a stunning pet-safe plant that thrives in humid environments. Its wavy, bright green leaves give it a unique and tropical look. This fern prefers a warm, moist environment, so it does especially well in bathrooms or kitchens. It’s also very easy to care for, making it a great choice for beginner plant parents.
Why it’s safe: Completely non-toxic and pet-friendly.
Care tips: Thrives in indirect light and high humidity. Water when the top inch of soil dries out..
Bonus: Its crinkled leaves add texture and visual interest to your home.
10. Ponytail Palm (Beaucarnea recurvata)
Despite its name, the Ponytail Palm is not a true palm but a drought-tolerant succulentThis plant has a thick, bulbous trunk that stores water, making it highly drought-resistant. Its long, curly leaves spill over the top like a ponytail, adding a fun, playful look to your home. It’s a great choice for pet owners who want a stylish, low-maintenance plant.
Why it’s safe: Non-toxic and completely safe for pets.
Care tips: Thrives in bright, indirect light and needs minimal watering (every 2–3 weeks).
Bonus: Its unique shape makes it a great statement plant for any room.
11. Friendship Plant (Pilea involucrata)
The Friendship Plant gets its name because it’s so easy to propagate and share with friends! It has soft, textured leaves that grow in a bushy, compact form. This plant thrives in warm, humid environments and is a great choice for terrariums.
Why it’s safe: Completely non-toxic and safe for curious pets.
Care tips: Loves indirect light and moist soil. Mist occasionally to maintain humidity.
Bonus: Easy to grow and perfect for sharing with plant-loving friends.
12. Venus Flytrap (Dionaea muscipula)
The Venus Flytrap is one of the most fascinating pet-safe plants you can own. Its leaves snap shut when triggered by tiny hairs, capturing insects for food. This plant adds a bit of excitement to any plant collection and is completely harmless to pets.
Why it’s safe: Non-toxic and safe for cats and dogs.
Care tips: Requires bright light and distilled water (tap water can harm it). Keep soil moist.
Bonus: Naturally helps control small bugs in your home!
13. Polka Dot Plant (Hypoestes phyllostachya)
If you love colorful plants, the Polka Dot Plant is a fantastic choice. It comes in pink, red, white, and green varieties, adding a pop of color to any space. This plant is pet-safe and thrives in bright, indirect light.
Why it’s safe: Completely safe for pets and fun to grow.
Care tips: Prefers bright, indirect light and moist soil. Avoid letting it dry out.
Bonus: Adds vibrant color to your home without flowers.
14. Orchid (Orchidaceae)
Orchids are one of the most elegant and pet-safe flowering plants you can own. With their long-lasting blooms and delicate beauty, they make any space feel more sophisticated. Orchids require indirect light and occasional watering, making them relatively low-maintenance.
Why it’s safe: Completely non-toxic and safe for pets.
Care tips: Needs indirect light and weekly watering. Use well-draining orchid mix.
Bonus: Flowers can last for months, adding long-lasting beauty to your home.
15. Bromeliad (Bromeliaceae)
The Bromeliad is a tropical beauty that’s surprisingly easy to care for. Its bright, colorful flowers can last for months, and it thrives in indirect light. Since it doesn’t need soil (it can be mounted on wood or placed in decorative pots), it’s a fun, creative plant to display.
Why it’s safe: Completely pet-friendly, making it a great choice for pet owners.
Care tips: Prefers bright, indirect light and moderate watering. Avoid overwatering the central cup.
Bonus: Comes in a variety of bright, cheerful colors that last for months.
16. Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)
True to its name, the Cast Iron Plant is incredibly resilient and hard to kill. It can survive in low light, irregular watering, and even neglect, making it one of the easiest pet-safe plants to own. Its deep green leaves add a touch of elegance, and it’s perfect for beginners.
Why it’s safe: Completely non-toxic and safe for pets.
Care tips: Thrives in low to medium light and tolerates infrequent watering.
Bonus: Extremely hardy and can survive in almost any environment.
17. Prayer Plant (Maranta leuconeura)
The Prayer Plant is named for its unique habit of folding its leaves upward at night, resembling praying hands. It has stunning, patterned leaves and thrives in humid environments. If you want a pet-safe plant with personality, this is a great choice!
Why it’s safe: Completely safe for cats and dogs.
Care tips: Prefers indirect light and high humidity. Keep the soil slightly moist.
Bonus: Its moving leaves make it a fun and interactive plant.
18. Air Plants (Tillandsia spp.)
Air Plants are unique because they don’t need soil to grow! These small, low-maintenance plants absorb moisture from the air, making them perfect for creative displays. They’re completely safe for pets and easy to care for.
Why it’s safe: Non-toxic and safe for all pets.
Care tips: Requires weekly soaking or misting. Needs bright, indirect light.
Bonus: Can be displayed in hanging glass globes, driftwood, or mounted on walls.
19. Baby Tears (Soleirolia soleirolii)
Baby Tears is a pet-safe plant with delicate, trailing foliage that adds a soft, green touch to any space. It’s great for terrariums, hanging baskets, or small pots. Since it likes moisture, it does best in humid environments.
Why it’s safe: Completely safe for pets and grows quickly.
Care tips: Prefers indirect light and moist soil. Mist occasionally.
Bonus: Makes a great ground cover for terrariums and fairy gardens.
20. Fishbone Cactus (Epiphyllum anguliger)
The Fishbone Cactus is a pet-safe cactus with fun, zigzag-shaped leaves. Unlike traditional cacti, it thrives in humid environments and requires more watering. It’s a unique and easy-to-care-for plant that adds personality to your home.
Why it’s safe: Completely non-toxic and pet-friendly.
Care tips: Needs bright, indirect light and occasional watering (when the soil is dry).
Bonus: Its unusual shape makes it a conversation starter.
Tips for Keeping Pets and Plants Safe Together
Even though the plants on this list are houseplants that are safe for cats and dogs, some pets just love to nibble on greenery. While these plants won’t harm them, chewing on leaves can still cause mild stomach upset or damage to the plant itself. Here are some simple tips to help your pets and plants live in harmony:
1. Place Plants Out of Reach
One of the easiest ways to keep both your plants and pets safe is by placing plants in hard-to-reach spots. Try:
- Hanging planters – Perfect for trailing plants like Spider Plants.
- Wall-mounted shelves – Keep plants high up and away from playful paws.
- Tall plant stands – Great for smaller pots that need elevation.
Tip: Cats are expert climbers, so make sure shelves and stands are sturdy to prevent accidents!
2. Train Your Pets to Avoid Plants
Teaching your pets to stay away from plants can save you a lot of trouble. Here’s how:
- Use positive reinforcement – Reward your pet when they ignore plants.
- Try a pet deterrent spray – Natural citrus sprays (safe for pets) can help discourage nibbling.
- Provide alternative chewing options – Offer cat grass or pet-safe chew toys.
Tip: Some cats love to dig in soil. Cover the surface with decorative stones or use a breathable plant cover to prevent digging.
3. Keep Toxic Plants Out of Your Home
Even if you place toxic plants in hard-to-reach spots, accidents can still happen. It’s best to avoid keeping dangerous plants in your home altogether. Some of the most toxic houseplants include:
- Lilies – Extremely toxic to cats, even in small amounts.
- Pothos (Devil’s Ivy) – Can cause mouth irritation and vomiting.
- Sago Palm – Highly poisonous and can cause liver failure.
- Philodendron – Can lead to drooling, swelling, and difficulty swallowing.
Tip: If you’re unsure whether a plant is safe, check the ASPCA’s Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant List before buying.
4. Watch for Signs of Trouble
Even with pet-safe plants, some animals may still have sensitivities. If your pet has chewed on a plant and shows unusual behavior, watch for signs like:
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Drooling or pawing at the mouth
- Lethargy or weakness
- Loss of appetite
By following these simple tips, you can enjoy a home full of beautiful plants without worrying about your pets.
Frequently Asked Question About Houseplants That Are Safe for Cats and Dogs
What indoor plant is safe for cats and dogs?
There are many pet-safe indoor plants, but some of the best include Spider Plant, Boston Fern, Areca Palm, Calathea, and Parlor Palm. These plants are non-toxic and easy to care for, making them great choices for pet owners.
What plants are 100% safe for cats?
Here are the safest plants for cats:Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum) Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata) Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens) Calathea (Calathea spp.) Peperomia (Peperomia spp.)
All of these are completely non-toxic and safe for cats.
What plants are calming to cats?
Some plants can have a soothing effect on cats, including:
Catnip (Nepeta cataria) – Helps relax or energize cats, depending on their reaction. Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) – Has a calming effect similar to catnip. Cat Grass (Dactylis glomerata) – Safe for chewing and can reduce stress. Lemongrass (Cymbopogon spp.) – Non-toxic and may provide a gentle calming scent.
What houseplant is the safest to grow indoors where children are around?
If you have both kids and pets, consider these ultra-safe houseplants:
- Spider Plant – Non-toxic and hardy.
- Boston Fern – Safe and lush.
- Areca Palm – Adds greenery without risk.
- Prayer Plant (Maranta leuconeura) – Safe and fascinating to watch.
- Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior) – Nearly indestructible and completely non-toxic.
These plants are non-toxic, low-maintenance, and won’t cause harm if touched by little hands.
Are all succulents safe for pets?
Not all succulents are pet-friendly. Some, like Haworthia and Echeveria, are safe, while others, such as Jade Plants (Crassula) and Aloe Vera, are toxic. Always check a plant’s safety before bringing it home.
How do I know if a plant is safe for pets before buying?
Always check reliable sources like the ASPCA Toxic & Non-Toxic Plants List before purchasing a new plant. You can also ask your local nursery for advice.
Final Thoughts
Bringing houseplants that are safe for cats and dogs into your home doesn’t mean sacrificing style or variety. These 20 pet-safe plants are beautiful, easy to care for, and completely non-toxic. Whether you’re a new plant parent or an experienced gardener, there’s a perfect plant for you and your furry friend!