We love our pets and plants very much, but when it comes to their health and safety, it’s important to know the limits of plant toxicity to keep both our pets and our plants safe.
“Do your research. “Know the risks to your pets before bringing any new plants into your home and keep them from being exposed to toxic substances,” says Scott Allshouse, CEO and President of Earths Ally, a company that makes gardening supplies.
Keep in mind that just because a plant itself is non-toxic to pets doesnt mean its a go. There are still other factors to consider with plant care. “Houseplants almost inevitably face common pests like scale, aphids, and spider mites. Some pesticides and insecticides are poisonous to pets as well,” says Allshouse.
We talked to experts to find out which houseplants are safe for cats and dogs and which ones aren’t. Now you can bring your new green friend home without worry.
Tip: If you want to have pet-friendly plants sent right to your door, Insider Reviews checked out three well-known plant stores: The Sill, Leon, and Advertisement.
Some species of palm, like the parlor palm (Chamaedorea elegans) and the ponytail palm (Beaucarnea recurvata), can be kept with pets without any problems. It is not a real palm, though, and Ben Team, an environmental educator at K9 of Mine, says it is very dangerous. Advertisement.
This plant (Phyllostachys aurea), which is also known as golden or fishpole bamboo, makes great patio foliage and is safe for both cats and dogs. Other types, however, like heavenly or sacred bamboo and lucky bamboo can be toxic to cats. Advertisement.
African violets (Streptocarpus ionanthus) are the ideal marriage of a green houseplant and a bouquet of flowers. Their pinkish-purple blooms bring color to any home and are safe to have around pets. Advertisement.
Spider plants (Chlorophytum comosum), which are also called airplane plants, spider ivy, and ribbon plants, are popular houseplants that are safe for pets and look great when hung up high so animals can’t reach them. Allshouse says, “Spider plants are great for new plant parents because they are low maintenance, easy to propagate, and safe for both cats and dogs.” Advertisement.
Snake plants are popular houseplants known for being virtually indestructible But their saponin content makes them toxic for cats if ingested So what’s a feline-loving plant parent to do? The solution is opting for safe snake plant alternatives perfect for homes with curious kitties.
This guide covers cat-friendly plants that can substitute for snake plants in terms of size, structure, and care needs. Read on to discover the top picks!
Overview of Snake Plant Toxicity in Cats
While not highly toxic, snake plants contain saponins that can cause adverse effects if eaten by cats. Saponins irritate the mouth and gastrointestinal tract, leading to symptoms like:
- Excessive drooling
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
Severe poisoning is rare but possible if a large amount is consumed, It’s better to avoid snake plants altogether if you have cats that are prone to nibbling on houseplants
Ideal Snake Plant Alternatives for Cat Parents
The good news is many cat-safe plants can provide the same decorative impact as snake plants without posing a risk. Here are some excellent non-toxic alternatives:
Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)
With its long, pointed leaves, the cast iron plant resembles certain snake plant varieties. Its dark green foliage adds great texture. Cast iron plants thrive in low to bright indirect light and are very forgiving if you forget to water occasionally.
Ponytail Palm (Beaucarnea recurvata)
Reaching up to 10 feet tall, ponytail palms make excellent floor plants like large snake plants. The swollen base stores water. So they adapt well to occasional neglect. Ponytails prefer bright indirect light.
Bird’s Nest Fern (Asplenium nidus)
The stiff, rippled foliage of bird’s nest ferns provides visual interest like snake plants. They are relatively easy to care for, requiring medium to bright indirect light and regular watering. Their compact size makes them suitable for tables or hanging baskets.
Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
With long, slender leaves, spider plants can mimic the look of certain snake plant varieties. Fast-growing spider plants thrive in bright indirect light and tolerate occasional droughts once established. They also produce offshoots you can replant.
ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
ZZ plants have thick, waxy leaflets that pair well with the stiff foliage of snake plants. They grow in low to bright indirect light and can handle neglect. Limited watering allows their tuberous rhizomes to store moisture.
Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
A classic houseplant, peace lilies have glossy leaves and white flowers like some snake plants. They thrive in medium to bright indirect light. Allow the top inch of soil to dry between waterings. Peace lilies filter airborne toxins.
Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans)
The lush, tropical look of parlor palms complements snake plants nicely. They adapt well to low to medium indirect light. Let the top half of soil dry out before watering parlor palms. Mist the leaves occasionally for added humidity.
Key Differences Between Snake Plants and Cat-Safe Alternatives
While these plants can substitute for snake plants visually, there are some care differences to note:
-
Watering – Most alternatives require more frequent watering than drought-tolerant snake plants. But cast iron plants and ZZ plants also tolerate neglect.
-
Light – Snake plants tolerate very low light. Alternatives like parlor palms need at least medium indirect light to thrive. Ponytail palms prefer bright light.
-
Size – Snake plants come in a wide range of sizes. Alternatives like bird’s nest ferns are more compact while cast iron plants grow larger.
-
Growth speed – Snake plants grow slowly. Spider plants and peace lilies grow relatively quickly.
Tips for Safely Keeping Indoor Plants with Cats
Beyond choosing non-toxic plants, there are additional ways to ensure your cats and houseplants coexist safely:
-
Place plants out of reach of cats on high shelves or plant stands. Use hangers for hanging plants.
-
Keep plants in rooms cats are not allowed access to, such as a home office or spare room.
-
Use decorative planter boxes or cabinets with doors to create plant barriers.
-
Try cat deterrents like citrus or eucalyptus scent sprays on and around plants.
-
Provide cats with their own “cat grass” and toys as alternative greens to chew.
-
Opt for small houseplants and trim back large, spreading leaves that are easy for cats to bite.
Regularly assess your indoor garden for signs of chewing or digging. Removing and replacing plants your cat seems attracted to nibbling can prevent illness. With some planning, both plant and feline can live in harmony!
Frequently Asked Questions About Snake Plants and Cats
Here are answers to some common questions cat owners have about snake plants:
Are all types of snake plants toxic to cats?
Yes, all varieties and cultivars of both Dracaena and Sansevieria snake plants contain saponins that can harm cats if ingested. It’s safest to keep all species and varieties out of reach.
What symptoms should I watch for if my cat eats a snake plant?
Look for digestive upset like drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite. Also watch for lethargy, dilated pupils, and oral swelling or irritation. Seek prompt veterinary treatment if symptoms concern you.
Is it okay if my cat just bites or chews on a snake plant?
No – snake plants can cause irritation, swelling, and other effects even if not actually swallowed. Make sure your cat can’t access the plant at all.
Should I get rid of my snake plant if I get a new kitten?
Unfortunately, keeping a snake plant may be too risky if you adopt a kitten or curious cat prone to nibbling on vegetation. Consider rehoming the snake plant and choosing a safer alternative.
Are other common houseplants toxic for cats?
Yes, many including philodendrons, lilies, pothos, and diffenbachia can also harm cats. Always verify a plant’s safety before bringing it home. Consult the ASPCA’s toxic plants list.
Give Your Cat Some Catnip and Opt for Safe Alternatives
While snake plants make excellent houseplants, their potential toxicity to cats warrants caution and consideration of safer alternatives. Luckily, there are many visually similar plants to use that will allow both you and kitty to enjoy your indoor garden!
Chinese money plants
This houseplant, Pilea peperomioides, which is also called the UFO plant or pancake plant, has a unique look that makes it a great choice for pet-friendly homes. The self-propagator is easy to care for and adorable to look at (just like your fur babies). Advertisement.
Indoor herb gardens can provide beauty and fragrance to your home and have gained popularity. According to the American Society for the Prevention and Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), basil, thyme, rosemary, and sage are safe to both cats and dogs. Parsley, however, is a toxic herb. Advertisement
Don’t mix up the rubber plant (Peperomia obtusifolia) with the rubber tree; the rubber tree is poisonous to pets. The rubber plant has shiny, big leaves that look like succulents. Theyre easy to grow indoors, especially in spots with bright natural light. Advertisement.
Cast iron plants
This shiny plant, Aspidistra elatior, has a deep emerald color and is native to Japan. It is known for being very hard to damage. That person who spends more time with their pets than with plants should choose this option. Advertisement.
Prayer plants, or Calathea insignis, are great for plant lovers who like their plants to have some color and interesting patterns. These well-known houseplants are safe for both cats and dogs, and it’s fun to see their leaves move up at night. Advertisement.
Like spider plants, Boston ferns (Nephrolepis exalta bostoniensis) are great for hanging and keeping out of pets’ reach. However, many cats will still be able to get to them, but that’s okay—the two can live together safely. Advertisement.
Plant and pet owners should be aware that aloe vera plants look a lot like haworthia succulents (Asphodeloideae), but only the haworthia succulents are safe for pets. Haworthia succulents are easy to care for and require watering less frequently than other houseplants, says Team. Advertisement.