Most of us are aware of the benefits of having plants in the home, which is probably why plant sales have increased 50% in the last four years with 66% of people having at least one houseplant. Also, pet ownership is rising with 57% of Americans owning at least one pet. With so many homes having pets and plants, it’s important to be aware of which pet-friendly plants are available for you to keep in your home and keep your fur babies safe. Here at Walter Knoll Florist, the premier floral shop in St. Louis, we love cats and dogs as much as we do plants and have posted for you below the top safest houseplants for pets.
Pet-Friendly Plants for the Home
Spider Plant
A popular houseplant because it’s easy to grow and fast-growing sprouting baby “spiders” that are easily propagated, Spider plants are pet-friendly ornamental plants that bring life and vitality to any home. The long, grassy leaves arch outwards makes it perfect for hanging planter.
Parlor Palm
A beautiful and lush green plant with large leaflets that provide texture and movement, the Parlor Palm is non-toxic to cats and dogs. This easy-to-grow plant can reach up to 4 feet indoors.
Bird’s Nest Fern
A tropical plant that is usually found growing off of a palm tree, the Bird’s Nest Fern can thrive indoors and make a fantastically unique houseplant. With light-green fronds that are crinkled at the edges, Bird’s Nest Ferns are safe for pets, which is good because they will add pizzazz to any room it’s placed in.
Ponytail Palm
A charming plant with visually stunning leaves, the Ponytail Palm is pet-friendly and easy to grow. It is very forgiving and can handle various conditions making an ideal houseplant. Plus, they just look really cool.
Polka Dot Plant
For a plant that delivers air-purifying benefits and a splash of color, then pick up a Polka Dot Plant. Its large green leaves are “dotted” with colors such as pink, white, and red as if splashed by a paintbrush. The Polka Dot Plant is non-toxic to cats and dogs, easy to grow, and eye-catching. You’ll want to add this one to your plant collection.
Watermelon Peperomia
Another plant with striking and decorative leaves, the Watermelon Peperomia plant has a leaf design that resembles the exterior of a watermelon. Easy to grow, this plant is good for those new to owning plants. The Watermelon Peperomia is a pet-friendly pet.
Orchid
An elegant and distinctive plant, Orchids are also pet-friendly. Orchids are very popular most likely due to their stunning blossoms, sweet fragrance, and beauty.
African Violet
Another popular houseplant, the African Violet comes in a variety of leaf forms and colors. With proper care, it can flower nearly all year round and thrive indoors. African Violets are not toxic to cats or dogs.
Signs of Poisoning in Pets
If you suspect your pet has ingested something toxic, you should take them to the vet right away. Signs that indicate poisoning include vomiting, excessive drooling, diarrhea, lethargy, and a racing heart. For an extensive list of plants that are toxic to cats and dogs, visit the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center website.
How to Protect your Pets from Toxic Plants
You can protect your fur babies by only having non-toxic plants and flowers in your home. Of course, if you fall in love with a plant that is toxic, be sure to keep it well out of reach of any playful paws. For these plants, place them in a plant hanger, high up on a shelf, or in an area cordoned off to your pets. Not only will this protect your pets, but it will also protect your plants from your pets. To view our plant and flower collection, click here.
