If you’re a pet owner, you’re probably aware some plants can be health hazards to your cat or dog, causing symptoms ranging from vomiting to breathing difficulties and seizures. However, just because you have pets doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice the beauty and benefits of indoor plants. Pet-friendly houseplants brighten your home without putting your animals at risk. Here are a few non-toxic plants that are easy to care for, lovely to look at, and safe for your pets.
Non-Toxic and Pet-Friendly Houseplants
1. Spider Plant
Spider plants are one of the most popular choices for pet owners because they’re easy to grow, attractive, and non-toxic to cats and dogs. These plants have long, narrow leaves that grow from a central rosette and produce small white or yellow flowers in summer. Spider plants prefer bright but indirect light, moderate humidity, and well-drained soil. According to a NASA study, these plants help to remove carbon monoxide, benzene, styrene, formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene from your indoor air.
2. Boston Fern
Boston ferns are native to tropical regions and are known for their lush, green fronds that arch gracefully over the pot. These plants are also a favorite among pet owners because they’re non-toxic and easy to care for. Boston ferns thrive in bright and indirect light, high humidity, and well-drained soil. They’re excellent natural humidifiers and air purifiers and absorb formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene.
3. African Violets are Pet-Friendly Houseplants
African violets are compact, flowering plants in various colors, from white and pink to purple and blue. These houseplants are perfect for adding color to any room and are safe for pets. African violets prefer bright, filtered light and well-drained soil. They require regular watering to keep their soil moist but not soggy.
4. Money Tree
Money trees are a type of small tree believed to bring good luck and wealth to their owners. These plants have a distinctive braided trunk and glossy green leaves that can grow up to a foot long. Money trees thrive in bright, indirect light and well-drained soil. They prefer regular watering but can tolerate dry soil for short periods. Like many houseplants, Money trees help purify the air by absorbing chemicals, including formaldehyde and benzene, in indoor environments. They produce oxygen at night, while other plants only do so during the day.
5. Parlor Palm
Parlor palms are non-toxic natives of Mexico and Central America. These plants are slow-growing but can reach up to 6 feet tall in ideal conditions. They have delicate, feathery fronds that grow on slender stalks, giving them a graceful appearance. Parlor palms need bright but indirect light, moderate humidity, and well-drained soil. They’re also excellent air purifiers and can remove formaldehyde, benzene, trichloroethylene, and other toxins.
Many houseplants are safe for pets. When choosing pet-friendly plants, look for varieties that are non-toxic, easy to care for, and add beauty and air-purifying benefits to your home. You can create an attractive, eco-friendly indoor oasis for your family and your cat or dog.
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