As a cat owner and gardening enthusiast, I understand the struggle of finding beautiful flowers that are safe for furry friends. While cats love to play and explore, some common garden plants can be toxic if ingested. The good news is many gorgeous perennial flowers are totally cat-friendly.
In this article, we’ll explore 12 of the best perennial flowers safe for cats that you can grow in your garden. With proper precautions, these plants allow you and your cats to enjoy their beauty without worry. Let’s dive in!
Why Perennials Are Great For Cat Owners
Perennial flowers are plants that live for multiple years, often coming back year after year. This makes them a smart low-maintenance choice for gardens with curious kitties.
Annuals must be replanted every year from seed while perennials regrow from their root system. Once established perennials require less work and expense compared to annuals. Their hardiness also makes them more resistant to cats who may nibble on leaves or dig around roots.
Of course, supervision is still advised with any plant. But opting for non-toxic perennials can provide some reassurance if your cats are plant-obsessed
12 Purr-fect Perennial Flowers Safe For Cats
Here are 12 of my favorite perennial flowers that are non-toxic for cats and make stunning additions to any cat-friendly garden:
1. Lavender
With its iconic scent and color, lavender is a lovely perennial herb. Cats may nibble on the fragrant leaves or purple blooms, but lavender is considered safe and non-toxic. Make sure to monitor chewing and avoid letting cats ingest large amounts.
2. Sunflowers
Happy sunflowers are a sunshine-filled addition to gardens. Their large blooms and pollen attract bees, so supervise playtime. But sunflowers are considered non-toxic for cats who may brush against the sturdy stalks and leaves.
3. Asters
With late summer blooms, asters provide a pop of color. These perennials come in many varieties, like daisy-like asters. Monitor chewing, but asters are typically considered cat-safe.
4. Coneflowers
Also called echinacea, these daisy-like purple coneflowers are a pretty non-toxic choice. They attract pollinators, so place away from curious cats if needed. But coneflowers are generally safe if ingested.
5. Coral Bells
For lush greenery, coral bells offer eye-catching foliage. With over 500 hybrids, the plant features vivid leaf colors from chartreuse to deep purple. Coral bells are non-toxic for cats, but monitor nibbling.
6. Bee Balm
With its wildflower appearance, bee balm attracts pollinators with its red blooms. Hummingbirds love them too! Cat-safe, bee balm grows well in sunny spots with well-drained soil.
7. Black-Eyed Susans
A garden classic, black-eyed Susans provide cheerful color. These sunny perennials with dark centers are considered non-toxic for felines. Plant clumps in sunny spots for months of blooms.
8. Chrysanthemums
Chrysanthemums offer late season color with their signature daisy-like blooms. Ingesting large amounts may cause mild stomach upset, so monitor chewing. But the plants are generally considered cat-safe.
9. Yarrow
This perennial provides feathery leaves and summer-blooming umbrella-shaped flower clusters. Yarrow is considered non-toxic to cats if some leaves are ingested. Monitor and limit any consumption.
10. Penstemon
Also called beardtongue, penstemon blooms in late spring or early summer in hues like white, pink, and purple. Monitor chewing, but it’s considered a safe perennial flower. Hummingbirds love it.
11. Catmint
With grey-green leaves and clusters of lavender blooms, catmint truly lives up to its name for feline fans. The aromatic, non-toxic herb is easy to grow and drought-resistant.
12. Russian Sage
Another herb that doubles as a perennial flower is Russian sage. Flourishing in summer with spikes of purple blooms, it has fragrant leaves and is considered non-toxic for cats.
Growing Tips For Cat-Safe Perennial Flowers
When planting cat-friendly perennials, keep these tips in mind:
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Research toxicity: Some sources have conflicting views on plant safety. Thoroughly research the toxicity of any plants before introducing them to your garden. Consult reputable sources and, when in doubt, avoid the plant.
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Avoid excessive ingestion: While the perennials above are considered non-toxic, cats should not be allowed to consume large amounts. This goes for any plants! Always supervise outdoor time and limit nibbling.
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Watch for common allergies: Cats with known plant allergies may react poorly even to “safe” plants. Take precautions if your cat has reacted before.
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Monitor curious cats: Determined cats may dig up newly planted perennials before they establish roots. Use stakes, fencing, or other barriers as needed while plants get settled.
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Consider placement carefully: Even non-toxic plants can pose risks depending on placement. Keep thorny roses far from play areas, and plant sunflowers away from paths where stalks may poke passerby.
By selecting cat-friendly perennial flowers and taking simple precautions, you can curate a garden that’s both gorgeous and safe for your feline friends. Monitor playtime, discourage snacking, and enjoy watching your cats bask in the beauty of nature.
Frequently Asked Questions About Perennial Flowers And Cats
Are tulips and lilies toxic to cats?
Yes, unfortunately tulips and lilies are very toxic to cats. Even small amounts can cause kidney failure in felines. Avoid these flowers and opt for non-toxic perennials instead.
What if my cat eats a toxic plant?
If your cat has ingested any part of a toxic plant, contact your veterinarian or pet poison control immediately. Depending on the plant, side effects may include vomiting, lethargy, difficulty breathing, and much more. Quick treatment is vital.
Should I keep cats out of my flower beds?
It’s smart to discourage cats from digging in or trampling delicate flower beds. Use fencing, garden tools left in beds, or cat deterrent sprays made from non-toxic essential oils to keep them away from freshly planted areas.
Are vegetable garden plants safe?
Many veggie garden favorites like tomatoes, carrots, and peppers are non-toxic for cats. But research each plant, watch for excessive ingestion, and consider cat-proof fencing to keep your veggies safe.
What are the most toxic plants for cats?
Some of the most toxic plants for cats include: lilies, poinsettias, oleander, azaleas, rhododendrons, sago palms, foxglove, daffodils, tulips, chrysanthemums, and more. Avoid these at all costs!
Bring Non-Toxic Perennial Beauty Into Your Cat’s World
With proper precautions, perennial flowers let you garden guilt-free with cats. Stick to non-toxic varieties, monitor chewing and digging, and consider placement carefully.
The perennial flowers covered above are beautiful, low-maintenance, and considered safe if limited amounts are ingested. Plant catmint for its whimsical name and watch your felines frolic safely surrounded by gorgeous blooms.
What are your favorite cat-friendly perennial flowers? Share your top picks and growing tips in the comments below!
What Would You like to Learn About Today?
If you’ve ever had the pleasure of sharing your home with a curious and playful feline friend, you understand the importance of creating a safe and harmonious environment for them to thrive. As you begin creating your gardening plan, you may struggle to find feline-friendly foliage that won’t harm them. Stop the search here: if you’re looking for cat-friendly outdoor garden alternatives, you’ve come to the right place!
From vibrant flowers to lush shrubs, all the cat-friendly plants in this blog are confirmed as non-toxic to cats by the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals). To see the full list, click HERE. Let’s get started.
Please note that Great Garden Plants does not recommend that pets, kids, or adults eat any flowers, weeds, trees, or bushes. Ornamental plants are intended to be just that – ornamental. They should not be consumed by people or pets.
The icy foliage on Russian sage is one cool cat! Once established, Russian sage thrives in hot and dry environments, making it an excellent addition to gardeners looking for pet-friendly options in growing zones 4-9. No worries if your cat bumps into them; their strong upright stems won’t flop over easily.
The vertical flowers from spike speedwell may intrigue your furry friends to play, but it’s okay because it’s non-toxic to pets. Enjoy vibrant blue, white, and pink flower spikes all summer. Try pairing alongside tickseed for a low-maintenance perennial garden.
Pictured above: At Last Rose
Pet-friendly garden options never have to be boring! Roses are a showy garden favorite that emits a beautiful scent that humans love, all while being safe for your furry friends. While the flowers are gorgeous and non-toxic, cats likely will steer clear of roses due to their prickly stems.
Tickseed is a compact flower that can thrive in nearly any sunny site! These plants may create a playground for your cats, as they attract pollinators like butterflies. Simply tuck them into container spaces or raised garden beds for a bright and sunny display.
Are you looking for a cat-friendly landscaping solution? Irish moss is a soft ground cover that resembles moss and features a vibrant green color with blooming white flowers come spring. Aside from use in mass plantings, Irish moss also can be quickly filled between stepping stones or tucked into rock gardens.
The strong fragrance from rosemary can attract any creature, human or feline, to the garden. But don’t worry; rosemary is non-toxic, and your cat can freely nibble on this herb. On the other hand, herbs like mint and oregano are toxic to pets.
Crapemyrtle gives you vibrant contrasting foliage in a space-saving habit for growing zone 6-10! While your feline friend is sunbathing, they can enjoy the vibrant color and frilly petals. This superstar shrub is also deer-resistant, heat tolerant, and easy to grow. What’s not to love?
Vibrant fiery blooms from ice plants last over three months and spread quickly throughout your garden. This plant is truly a summer-lover and works as an excellent ground cover that thrives in heat and drought. Just plant in a sunny spot, and you’re good to grow!
Rose of Sharon is an elegant addition to any flowering hedge or a striking backdrop to smaller perennials. Walk in your garden alongside your feline friend and view its spectacular display of large color flowers atop sturdy, tall stems.
Attract the pollinators and keep your furry friends safe with Jacob’s Ladder! Its delicate clustered flowers stand tall on sturdy stems and are nontoxic to cats and dogs. Plus, it’s deer-resistant, cold hardy, and heat tolerant!
Create a mesmerizing floral display with a mass planting of creeping phlox! This low-growing evergreen groundcover will invite your cats to cascade along vibrant small pink, yellow, purple, and white flowers.
Coral bells are a fantastic addition to other cat-friendly plants in the shade garden due to their versatility and resiliency. As an added bonus, coral bells are low maintenance and can easily be tucked into small spaces.
Red creeping thyme (or any thyme, for that matter) is safe for cats and offers antioxidant properties like vitamin C and calcium when consumed. This ground cover also grows densely and chokes out weeds in the process!
Lilyturf is a fast-growing evergreen ground cover that spreads quickly to form a thick carpet of graceful arching narrow green foliage. It’s also cat and dog-safe, meaning your furry friends can frolic through the lovely purple flower spikes and grassy leaves without worry.
Compact and easy to care for, sedum is an excellent option for gardeners strapped for space and needing pet-friendly options. While some succulent varieties pose a risk to your feline friends, sedum is considered non-toxic, according to the ASPCA. You’re cat may enjoy taking a nap next to its glossy, fresh-scented foliage.