Indoor Plants Safe for Pets: 15 Beautiful and Non-Toxic Plants

🐾 Introduction

Houseplants bring life and beauty into your home — but if you’re a pet parent, the wrong plant can spell trouble. Many common indoor plants are toxic to cats and dogs, causing symptoms like vomiting, drooling, or even organ failure.

The good news? There are pet-safe indoor plants that are both beautiful and non-toxic. In this article, we’ll explore 15+ indoor plants safe for cats and dogs, so you can green your space without compromising your furry friends’ safety.

🌿 Why Pet-Safe Plants Matter

According to the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), hundreds of common houseplants are toxic to pets. Pets often chew leaves out of curiosity or boredom. Keeping non-toxic plants reduces:

Unnecessary vet visits
Pet stress or poisoning
Anxiety for pet owners

15 Indoor Plants Safe for Pets (Cats & Dogs)

1. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)

Non-toxic to cats and dogs
Light: Bright, indirect
Water: Weekly

These hardy plants are loved by beginners and are completely safe for pets. Cats may find the dangling leaves fun to play with, but it’s harmless.

2. Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens)

Non-toxic
Light: Bright, indirect
Water: Keep soil moist

Also known as Butterfly Palm, it adds a tropical touch and purifies air — all while being pet-friendly.

3. Calathea (Calathea spp.)

Safe for pets
Light: Low to medium
Water: Consistently moist

Also called the Prayer Plant, Calatheas come in vibrant patterns and colors — ideal for safe, stylish décor.

4. Bamboo Palm (Chamaedorea seifrizii)

Pet-safe
Light: Low to bright
Water: Moderate

This slow-growing palm thrives in low-light corners and cleans toxins from the air.

5. Peperomia (Peperomia spp.)

Non-toxic to cats and dogs
Light: Bright, indirect
Water: Let dry between waterings

Peperomias come in many textures and colors — perfect for desks or shelves.

6. Prayer Plant (Maranta leuconeura)

Safe for pets
Light: Indirect
Water: Moist, but not soggy

Named for its leaves that fold at night like praying hands, this plant is stunning and safe.

7. Polka Dot Plant (Hypoestes phyllostachya)

Non-toxic
Light: Bright, indirect
Water: Keep evenly moist

With its colorful pink, white, or red dots, this small houseplant brightens rooms without risking pet health.

8. African Violet (Saintpaulia)

Pet-safe
Light: Medium to bright
Water: When topsoil is dry

One of the few flowering indoor plants safe for pets, perfect for tabletops and window sills.

9. Friendship Plant (Pilea involucrata)

Non-toxic
Light: Bright, indirect
Water: Keep soil moist

The textured leaves are a visual treat, and it’s safe for sniffing paws.

10. Baby Rubber Plant (Peperomia obtusifolia)

Safe for pets
Light: Medium to bright
Water: Infrequently

Not to be confused with toxic rubber tree (Ficus elastica), this variety is non-toxic and easy to care for.

11. Hoya Plant (Hoya carnosa)

Pet-friendly
Light: Bright
Water: Let soil dry between watering

This waxy vine grows beautiful star-shaped flowers and is a favorite among safe indoor trailing plants.

12. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)

Non-toxic to pets
Light: Indirect
Water: High humidity required

Great as a hanging plant in pet-friendly homes — just make sure your cat doesn’t nap in the pot!

13. Mosaic Plant (Fittonia albivenis)

Pet-safe
Light: Indirect
Water: Keep moist

Its stunning veins make it popular for terrariums and tabletops. Great for pet-safe zones.

14. Banana Plant (Musa spp.)

Non-toxic
Light: Bright
Water: Keep soil moist

If you have space and love large plants, Banana Plants are bold, lush, and safe.

15. Basil, Thyme & Rosemary (Herbs)

Safe and edible for pets
Light: Sunny windows
Water: When dry

Add greenery to your kitchen and peace of mind to your pet care routine!

Popular Indoor Plants That Are Toxic to Pets

Plant Name	Toxicity Effects
Snake Plant	Vomiting, diarrhea
Pothos (Money Plant)	Oral irritation, drooling
Peace Lily	Burning sensation, stomach upset
Aloe Vera	Vomiting, lethargy
Philodendron	Oral pain, kidney issues (if ingested)
Rubber Tree (Ficus)	Skin irritation, vomiting

Always verify plants with the ASPCA’s Toxic & Non-Toxic Plant List before buying.

Pet-Friendly Plant Care Tips

Use heavy pots to prevent tip-overs.
Keep plants elevated on shelves or hangers.
Avoid fertilizers with pet-toxic chemicals.
Redirect curious pets with toys or cat grass.
Supervise pets around new plants.

Where to Buy Pet-Safe Plants in the USA

The Sill (thesill.com) – Pet-safe filter available
Bloomscape
Etsy plant shops
Local garden centers (ask for pet-safe varieties)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I keep houseplants if I have pets?

Yes! You just need to choose non-toxic, pet-safe plants like Spider Plant, Peperomia, or Calathea.

What happens if my dog eats a toxic plant?

Call your vet or ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) immediately. Watch for signs like vomiting, drooling, or lethargy.

Are succulents safe for pets?

Some are safe (Haworthia), but many like Aloe Vera and Jade Plant are toxic. Always check first.

How do I keep pets from chewing my plants?

Elevate plants
Use citrus deterrents
Give pets chewing alternatives (like cat grass)

What’s a flowering plant safe for pets?

African Violet is a flowering, colorful, and pet-safe indoor plant option.

Conclusion

Creating a green, vibrant home doesn’t have to come at the cost of your pet’s safety. With the right choices, you can enjoy the beauty and health benefits of indoor plants without worrying about toxic exposure to your furry companions.

From the low-maintenance Spider Plant to the eye-catching Calathea, the pet-safe options are both diverse and stunning. Whether you’re a cat lover, dog parent, or both — these plants let you build a pet-friendly indoor jungle with peace of mind.

Always double-check plant toxicity
Use elevation or hanging pots to discourage nibbling
Choose from trusted sources like The Sill or Bloomscape

By filling your home with pet-safe indoor plants, you’re not just decorating — you’re creating a healthier, happier space for every member of your family.