Are Houseplants Safe for Cats and Dogs?
Some popular houseplants are toxic to cats and dogs, while others are generally considered safe, so it pays to check each plant before bringing it home. This article gives examples, but always confirm with a trusted source such as the ASPCA’s plant list, and call a vet if your pet has eaten a plant.
Which common houseplants are toxic to pets?
Plants commonly listed as toxic to cats and dogs include:
- Pothos
- Peace lily
- Monstera
- Philodendron
- ZZ plant
- Snake plant (mildly toxic)
- Aloe vera
- Lilies (true lilies are especially dangerous to cats)
- Sago palm (very dangerous)
Effects vary by plant, from mouth and stomach irritation to more serious problems. Some, such as true lilies for cats and sago palm, can be life-threatening.
Which houseplants are generally considered safe?
Plants commonly listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs include:
- Spider plant
- Boston fern
- Parlor palm
- Calathea and prayer plants
- Peperomia
- African violet
“Non-toxic” does not mean pets should eat them. Chewing any plant can still cause an upset stomach.
How can I keep pets away from plants?
Place toxic plants out of reach, use hanging planters or high shelves, and choose pet-friendly plants for lower spots. Some pets are persistent, so removing a risky plant is the safest option.
What should I do if my pet eats a plant?
Remove any plant material from their mouth, identify the plant if you can, and contact your vet or a pet poison hotline right away, even if they seem fine. Do not wait for symptoms.
How can I check a specific plant?
Look it up on the ASPCA’s toxic and non-toxic plant database. If you do not know what plant you have, identify it from a photo first.
Related reading: How to care for a spider plant, How to care for a pothos
Not sure what’s going on with your plant?
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