Adding plants to your home can be a magical experience. Not only are plants beautiful, but they purify your indoor air, making it much easier to breathe inside your home. Unfortunately, many cat owners are reluctant to add plants to their home. Our feline friends often make it more challenging to maintain other living things. Thankfully, there are many ways to safely introduce plants into a cat-friendly home!
Cat-Friendly Houseplants
Preferably, our cats would not chew on our plants, but oftentimes cats will chew on or eat anything they please. Many common houseplants are actually toxic to cats, so chewing can have major consequences. Fortunately, there are a number of houseplants that are non-toxic to cats.
Green, leafy plants are one of the most common additions to the modern home. While common plants like golden pothos and branching ivy are toxic, there are many safe plants that you and your pet can enjoy. Consider ferns such as the Boston or Kimberly Queen, or palms such as Bamboo, Parlor, or Ponytail. If you’re looking for low-maintenance yet beautiful green plants, you can find the non-toxic spider plants or rattlesnake plants at your local grocery store.
Many people like succulents, but pet owners must steer clear from jade and aloe. Instead, succulents such as Echeveria and Hawthoria Zebra are great non-toxic alternatives. Most cacti are also safe for cats, but be careful with these. Many cacti (and even succulents) have spines which can get stuck in your cat’s fur or skin.
Flowers are always a beautiful addition! In a house with cats, opt for orchids, sunflowers, or roses. Many common flowers are toxic, including lilies, daisies, and begonias. Keep any bouquets with these flowers far out of your pets’ reach.
Other than looking pretty, many cat-friendly plants are actually functional! You can grow herbs like basil and thyme without worry. These plants will happily sit in the window alongside your cat. Furthermore, if you have a problem with flies or gnats, you can find some help in a Venus fly trap! These carnivorous plants are completely cat-safe. Contrary to popular belief, it is not safe to grow catnip in your home. While cats may enjoy little bits of dried catnip in their toys, they can easily overdose on fresh catnip.
Placement is Everything!
While your houseplants may be safe, cats are not meant to eat plants. For your carnivorous cat, eating too many greens can cause severe vomiting and/or diarrhea. The best way to avoid this is to put houseplants far out of reach. Invest in some hanging planters! If you choose to place plants on high shelves, make sure your cat cannot get up there. You want to be sure they cannot knock over the plant, scattering vase or pot shards across the floor. Make sure your cat has many other perch spots so they will not be tempted to snuggle up to your plants. And be forgiving! Your plants will survive some cat scratches, just like you.
At Claws N Paws, your pet’s needs are always our first priority. You can find professional grooming services for both cats and dogs at our day spa, or devoted boarding services at our cats-only facility right next door. For more information or to make an appointment, contact us today at 714-962-1005.
Traveling With Pets