Pets and plants can co-exist! These non-toxic houseplants offer peace of mind

Pet parents who are also plant enthusiasts need to know the houseplants that are considered to be dog and cat safe. Whether it's mischief or curiosity, dogs and cats might be tempted to chew and consume houseplants so it’s important to ensure that you choose pet-friendly plants for your home.

Of course, for the sake of your plants and your pets, you’ll want to keep all houseplants out of general reach of your pets. But, because some houseplants are toxic to cats and dogs, it's wise to investigate each plant you purchase to ensure peace of mind if your pet happens to chew a plant's leaves or roots. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) is a good resource for learning about plant toxicity for cats, dogs, and horses.1

Here are 23 beautiful non-toxic indoor plants that are safe for cats and dogs.

• 01 of 23

  African Violet (Saintpaulia)

  

  African violets (Saintpaulia) are one of the most popular flowering safe houseplants for pets. They are also in demand because they bloom in low light and thrive in environmental conditions that people like: moderate temperatures and average humidity. 

  Choose a soil-free potting mix and use a balanced fertilizer for the best African violet health. Keep in mind that while the leaves and flowers are non-toxic to pets, the fertilizer you choose will be absorbed by the plant and has the potential to cause harm if your pet ingests part of the plant. So if your cat or dog has a track record for eating your houseplants, find a non-toxic or natural fertilizer to use for your African violets. 

• 02 of 23

  Baby’s Tears (Soleirolia soleirolii)

  

  The creeping mat of tiny green leaves of Soleirolia soleirolii adds character to terrariums, small hanging baskets, and as a companion plant around the base of indoor trees. Baby tears plants cover the soil and might discourage pets that like to dig in your houseplants. 

• 03 of 23

  Chinese Money Plant (Pilea peperomioides)

  

  This easy-keeper is part of the nettle family (Urticaceae) but is a safe choice for homes with cats or dogs. Its trademark is its round, fleshy leaves in vibrant green. Ideally, you’ll place it in a location in your home that receives bright, indirect light but it can survive in moderate-to-low light conditions too. When it comes to watering, do so infrequently but deeply. The soil should dry out in between watering sessions. The plant’s disc-like leaves will give you an indicator if you’ve neglected watering for too long because they’ll begin to droop.

• 04 of 23

  Banana Tree (Musa spp.)

  

  The large pet-friendly banana tree (Musa spp.) serves as a dramatic accent plant and grows to a height of six feet or more, though dwarf varieties top out between two and four feet. A central stem splits into long, wide leaves that are sometimes used in tropical cuisine to steam or serve food. Safe enough for serving human food, it’s not a huge surprise to find this plant listed as non-toxic by the ASPCA, making it a safe houseplant for cats and dogs. 

  This tropical houseplant needs conditions that replicate its natural habitat in order to thrive. Specifically, you’ll need to provide the banana tree with rich soil, bright light, and regular watering. And while dogs and cats can eat bananas as a treat, don’t count on your banana tree as a supply source because trees kept indoors rarely produce fruit.

• 05 of 23

  Echeveria (Echeveria spp.)

  

This type of succulent is a safe choice if you share your home with dogs or cats because it's non-toxic. The echeveria plant grows plump rosettes, ranging in color from greenish-silver to blue-green or even lilac-hued. Like other succulents, you won’t have to hover around this indoor houseplant, but you should place it in a location that gets at least 4 to 6 hours of sun each day. Water when the soil is completely dry; typically every 1 to 2 weeks. This plant will suffer if overwatered but it also doesn’t do well with extended periods of drought. 

• 06 of 23

  Gloxinia (Sinningia speciosa)

  

  Gloxinia hybrids are a compact, flowering houseplant with a height between six and ten inches. It looks great as a single plant on a plant stand or as a centerpiece for your dining room table. Whatever spot you choose, remember that it’s a low-light plant and should be kept out of bright, direct light. It requires frequent watering; the soil should be kept moist during the growing period. It will eventually drop its petals and leaves. 

  If you’re looking for a blooming houseplant that is dog- and cat-safe, gloxinia makes an ideal choice. The thick, ruffled leaves and single or double blooms (commonly seen in white, red, pink, lavender, purple, or blue) are non-toxic to dogs and cats. Because most of these plants are Sinningia speciosa hybrids, there is great variety in the shape and colors of the flowers. The plants are frequently sold as gifts and have a bloom cycle followed by a dormant period.

• 07 of 23

  Spider Plant (Chlorophytum)

  

  The cascading nature of the spider plant’s foliage means it’s a natural fit for elevated spaces like floating shelves, hanging baskets, or a windowsill (as long as it doesn’t receive too much light). Also known as ribbon plant or airplane plant, it’s non-toxic to cats and dogs and has a reputation as a hardy houseplant. 

  The spider plant is tolerant of a wide range of light, moisture, and soil conditions. Pot it in loose, loamy soil and water regularly. The spider plant prefers partial shade; too much sun can scorch foliage and full shade might stunt growth. As the plant grows, it sends out shoots with small plantlets, giving this houseplant its common name of spider plant.