When you have pets, you want to make sure that every part of your home is safe for them, including your houseplants. Many common houseplants can be toxic to animals if ingested, causing symptoms ranging from mild irritation to severe health problems. Here are the top five pet-friendly houseplants you can grow without fear for your furry friends’ safety
1. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Spider plants are popular houseplants due to their hardiness, low maintenance needs, and the fascinating ‘babies’ they produce on long, trailing stems. These plants are non-toxic to cats and dogs, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). Spider plants are also excellent air purifiers, helping to remove formaldehyde and xylene from your home environment.
2. Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens)
Commonly known as the butterfly palm, the areca palm is an excellent addition to any pet-friendly home. It is completely safe for dogs and cats and has the added benefit of acting as a natural humidifier. Areca palms are known for their feathery, arching fronds and are great for bright, indirect light locations.
3. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
Boston ferns are another excellent choice for pet owners. These ferns are non-toxic to both dogs and cats and have the added bonus of being quite an attractive plant. They do require a bit more attention than some of the other plants on this list. Boston ferns like humidity and indirect light, so they are perfect for bathrooms or kitchens.
4. Peperomia (Peperomia obtusifolia)
Despite its somewhat exotic name, Peperomia is a hardy and simple-to-care-for plant, featuring a compact size with thick, round, glossy leaves. The ASPCA lists Peperomia as non-toxic to both dogs and cats. This plant is a fantastic choice if you’re on the hunt for something to set in a hanging basket, due to its natural propensity to grow in a compact yet lush manner.
5. Prayer Plant (Maranta)
Prayer plants get their name from the fact that their leaves fold up at night, like hands in prayer. They are not only safe for pets but also visually interesting, with strikingly patterned leaves. Prayer plants do well in low-light conditions and prefer high-humidity environments.
Houseplants and Pets
Owning pets doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice having a green and lush indoor space. These pet-friendly plants not only add a touch of nature to your home but also help in improving the air quality. However, even with non-toxic plants, it’s crucial to monitor your pets and ensure they’re not eating the foliage, as any plant material could cause minor stomach upset if ingested in large quantities.
Before bringing any plant into your home, it’s always a good idea to check its safety for pets. You can consult resources like the ASPCA’s extensive list of toxic and non-toxic plants. Remember, what’s safe for one animal might not be safe for another, so always check for your specific pet.
Last updated: 22 May 2023
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