{"id":1840,"date":"2023-10-03T23:03:30","date_gmt":"2023-10-03T23:03:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/s37407.p1377.sites.pressdns.com\/resources\/25-plants-poisonous-to-cats-and-25-safe-plant\/"},"modified":"2023-10-03T23:03:30","modified_gmt":"2023-10-03T23:03:30","slug":"plants-and-flowers-safe-for-cats","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.care.com\/c\/plants-and-flowers-safe-for-cats\/","title":{"rendered":"16 common plants and flowers safe for cats"},"content":{"rendered":"

If you’ve ever seen a cat gleefully knock over a potted plant on a windowsill, you know that kitties tend to be pretty curious when it comes to things that grow (well, and everything else). Unfortunately, many common houseplants and flowers can be poisonous to cats<\/a>, so if you’re a feline lover with a green thumb, it’s important to make sure what you’re growing is safe for cats. Luckily, there are plenty of plants and flowers that are perfectly safe for your pet.<\/p>

“I’m a devoted plant enthusiast, with numerous plants both indoors and in my yard,” says New Orleans-based veterinarian Dr. Kevin Puzycki, who’s also the spokesperson for Solid Gold<\/a> pet food. “To ensure the safety of my cats, I always consult comprehensive lists, like the one provided by the ASPCA<\/a>, which categorizes plants as either toxic or nontoxic to cats.”<\/p>

Not only are there plenty of nontoxic options, but certain plants can even be beneficial to your cat, according to veterinarian Dr. Sara Ochoa of Louisiana City, Missouri, co-founder of How to Pets<\/a>.<\/p>

“Some of them have air-purifying abilities that can benefit humans and cats by improving indoor air quality like areca palm and Boston ferns,” says Ochoa. “These plants can contribute to a more humid indoor environment, which could potentially be beneficial, especially in drier climates.” Others, like spider plants, can provide stimulation and entertainment for your pet, as Ochoa explains cats are often attracted to their long leaves.<\/p>

The following plants and flowers are considered to be safe for cats to be around, so feel free to add them to your home or garden.<\/p>

Common cat-friendly plants<\/h2>

1. Boston ferns <\/h3>
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“Ferns can be a tricky bunch because some are toxic to cats,” says Ochoa. “However, Boston ferns are a safe option. They’re relatively easy to care for and add a touch of greenery to your interiors.”<\/p>

2. Bromeliads<\/h3>
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Also known by the names crimson cup, marbled fingernail, blushing bromeliad, ossifragi vase, miniature marble plant and aregelia, this red and green plant is nontoxic to cats.<\/p>

3. Swedish ivy<\/h3>
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“This fast-growing, easy-to-maintain indoor plant is entirely cat-safe,” says Ochoa. “Swedish ivy is sure to brighten up your home with its cascading green leaves.”<\/p>

4. Areca palm<\/h3>
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“Add a tropical feel to your home with the areca palm,” says Ochoa. “This appealing houseplant is not only safe for cats but also effective in purifying the air.”<\/p>

5. Bamboo<\/h3>
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Popular as both an indoor and outdoor plant, bamboo is often used as a landscaping tool. Luckily, it’s not toxic to cats.<\/p>

6. Calathea<\/h3>
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This plant is known for the beautiful pattern on its leaves. It won’t hurt your cat. <\/p>

7. Polka-dot plant<\/h3>
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Another plant with eye-catching, colorful leaves, the polka dot plant makes any room cheerful and is safe for cats.<\/p>

8. Spider plants<\/h3>
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“Almost impossible to kill, spider plants are nontoxic to cats and dogs alike,” says Ochoa. “They are excellent indoor plants and safe for your pets if they munch on them.”<\/p>

Common cat-safe flowers<\/h2>

1. Roses<\/h3>
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“Although thorned types might pose a minor physical risk, roses are non-toxic to cats,” says Ochoa. “They come in a wide variety of colors, perfect for adding elegance and a sweet scent to your home.”<\/p>

2. African violets<\/h3>
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Popular as a houseplant because of its pretty purple flowers, African violets (also known as cape marigold) are safe for cats.<\/p>

3. Sunflowers<\/h3>
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“Sunflowers have no substances harmful to cats,” says Ochoa. “All parts of the plant, from the stalk to the petal, are safe. Plus, they add a cheerful touch to any setting.”<\/p>

4. Zinnias<\/h3>
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An outdoor flower that comes in a variety of hues, zinnias are nontoxic to cats.<\/p>

5. Gerber daisies<\/h3>
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“Known for their bright and large array of colors, gerber daisies are safe for feline friends,” says Ochoa. “They bring a pop of color to any indoor setting.”<\/p>

6. Marigolds<\/h3>
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“These vibrant, sunny blooms are nontoxic to cats,” says Ochoa. “Not only do marigolds look beautiful, but they also offer pest-controlling properties.”<\/p>

7. Impatiens<\/h3>
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“Looking for flowers to fill your shade garden? Impatiens are beautiful, safe for your feline and love the shade,” says Ochoa.<\/p>

8. Orchids<\/h3>
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Exotic and lovely, orchids come in many colors and are nontoxic to cats.<\/p>

How to introduce cat-safe plants or flowers to your pet’s environment<\/h2>

“Creating a cat-friendly garden or figuring out where to place plants indoors doesn’t have to be a hassle,” says Ochoa. “It’s all about knowing your loving pet’s behavior and planning appropriately.” In addition to making sure that the plants you choose are safe for felines, Ochoa gives the following suggestions:<\/p>