Safe and Unsafe Houseplants for Cats

Safe and Unsafe Houseplants for Cats

It is always good to keep plants in your home. Greens all around help to boost your mood and also keep the home environment pleasant. However, if you have a furry member in your family, especially a cat, you have to be careful about the kinds of plants you keep. This is because there are several houseplants that are toxic to cats and should, therefore, be avoided by families with cats. Before discussing a few of them, let us look at some of the safe houseplants out there.

Safe houseplants for cats

  • Friendship plants
    Just as the name suggests, friendship plants are absolutely safe and cat-friendly. These houseplants are not just hardy but also easy to care for. The clippings of these plants can sprout roots and grow without much effort too.
  • Herbs
    Most kinds of herbs are safe and are in, no way, among the houseplants that are toxic for cats. Also, herbs such as basil, mint, thyme, and sage need little space to grow and are, therefore, suitable for small apartments too. In this category, you should avoid oregano and lavender, which can be toxic for pets.
  • Parlor plants
    One of the most popular houseplants out there, parlor plants are safe for homes with pets. They are the ideal pop of green that you would like to add to any room. This particular type of palm is also suitable for and thrives in non-tropical environments.

Unsafe or toxic houseplants for cats

  • Aloe
    No matter how fond you are of this plant and want one in your kitchen or bathroom for a decorative touch, it is among the houseplants that are toxic for cats. While there can be many types and varieties of aloe, the most common one planted in houses is the Barbados aloe and unfortunately, this is the one that is the most harmful for your little furry friend.
  • Asian lily
    A plant that makes a colorful appearance in the Easter festivities, Asian lily is reported to be toxic for cats. If you have grown lilies at home in small containers, you might not need to throw them out; you just need to keep them well away from your pet. However, abstain from buying these houseplants from stores for the safety of your cat.
  • Asparagus ferns
    Asparagus ferns are beautiful and lush green plants, but they are also houseplants that are toxic for cats. Both dogs and cats, in fact, are allergic to this specific plant. If you keep them in your bathroom, ensure that they are beyond the reach of your pet.
  • Begonia
    Begonia is a houseplant that works well in brightening up dark rooms in a home. However, you must avoid buying these plants if you have a cat. Begonia thrives in low-light conditions and is harmful to both dogs and cats.

So, now that you are aware of the houseplants that are toxic for cats keep them in mind when choosing plants to add a touch of greenery to your home. This way the greens and your cat can coexist peacefully.