The Best Indoor Plants Safe for Cats: Top Picks You’ll Love
When you’re a cat owner, it’s important to create a beautiful living space that’s not only stylish but also safe for your feline friend. While adding plants to your home can improve air quality and boost your mood, choosing plants that are safe for cats is essential.
Some plants can be toxic to cats, but don’t worry—there are plenty of indoor plants that are safe for cats and will make your home feel fresh and lively.
Let’s explore the best indoor plants safe for cats, focusing on low-maintenance and low-light options.
What Indoor Plants Are Safe for Cats?
If you’ve been wondering, “What indoor plants are safe for cats?” you’re not alone! As a pet parent, it’s crucial to know which plants you can safely keep around your furry friend. Here’s a list of plants that are both cat-friendly and perfect for any home:
1. Moss Amigos Moss Ball
Let’s start with an absolute gem, the Moss Amigos Moss Ball. This is hands-down one of the easiest plants to care for, and it’s safe for cats! The Moss Amigos Moss Ball is perfect if you’re looking for a low-maintenance, cat-safe option.
Unlike other plants, it doesn’t pose any risk to your cat if they decide to nibble on it. It doesn’t cause any allergies or irritations. Plus, it can live for up to 200 years! Yes, you read that right.
Take Note: Just be sure to place it in a spot where your curious kitty can't knock over the jar, as those mischievous paws can sometimes get into trouble!
2. Spider Plant
Spider plants are another great option for cat owners. These plants are non-toxic to cats and easy to care for. They’re ideal for hanging baskets or shelves out of reach of your curious pet, as the long, arching leaves can be tempting for cats to bat around.
3. Boston Fern
Photo credits: Katzenfee50 / Pixabay
The Boston fern is a great choice if you’re looking for a plant that’s also safe for your cat. This low-maintenance plant loves humidity, making it perfect for bathrooms or kitchens. It’s safe for cats and can thrive in indirect light.
4. Areca Palm
The Areca palm, or butterfly palm, is a plant that’s safe for cats and easy to grow. It’s also low-maintenance, needing only occasional watering and a little dusting to keep its fronds looking fresh.
5. Calathea
Photo credits: Leaf and Paw
Calatheas are known for their decorative leaves and are completely safe for cats. These plants prefer low to medium light and moderate humidity. While they require a bit more attention regarding watering and humidity, they’re still a great choice for cat owners who want to add a splash of color to their homes.
Low Light Indoor Plants Safe for Cats
Not everyone has a bright, sun-filled home, but don’t worry! There are still plenty of low-light indoor plants safe for cats that will thrive in darker corners of your house. Here are some top picks:
1. Moss Amigos Moss Ball
The Moss Amigos Moss Ball is easy to care for and does well in low-light conditions. It thrives in indirect sunlight and can be placed in areas with minimal natural light.
As a bonus, it’s completely safe for cats and requires little maintenance. Change the water every 2-3 weeks, and this charming plant will live for decades!
2. Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
The snake plant is practically indestructible, making it one of the easiest low-light indoor plants safe for cats. It’s also known for its air-purifying qualities. Snake plants can tolerate low light and infrequent watering, making them perfect for beginners or busy cat owners. Plus, it’s non-toxic to cats, so you can place it anywhere in your home without concern.
3. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
The ZZ plant is another fantastic choice for low-light areas. This plant is nearly indestructible and thrives on neglect, requiring very little water and light. It’s also safe for cats, making it an excellent option for those who want a hassle-free, pet-friendly plant in their home.
4. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
Peace lilies are not only stunning but also safe for cats. These plants thrive in low light and have beautiful white blooms. However, peace lilies do contain calcium oxalate crystals, so it’s important to keep them out of your cat’s reach, as they can cause mild irritation if ingested. While the plant itself is safe, it's still best to prevent your kitty from chewing on the leaves.
5. Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans)
Parlor palms are another excellent option for low-light environments. They’re non-toxic to cats and can grow well in rooms with limited sunlight. These plants are also low-maintenance and perfect for pet owners who want to add a touch of elegance to their space without worrying about their feline friends.
What Plants Are Calming to Cats?
Some indoor plants are known to have calming effects on cats, helping them relax and reduce stress. While there is no definitive list of plants that will "calm" all cats, certain plants have been reported to have a soothing effect due to their scents or textures. For example:
- Catnip (Nepeta cataria): This herb is famous for its ability to induce a playful or relaxed state in many cats. While not technically a "calming" plant in the traditional sense, it can provide a burst of joy and relaxation.
- Valerian Root (Valeriana officinalis): Similar to catnip, valerian can also trigger a calm, euphoric response in cats. It’s known for its relaxing properties in humans, and some cats enjoy it too.
- Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis): This herb can have mild sedative effects on both humans and cats. The scent may help calm your cat if they are feeling anxious.
However, it’s essential to remember that not all cats react to these plants in the same way. While some cats may become more relaxed, others may become hyperactive, particularly with catnip.
Benefits of Having Indoor Plants Safe for Cats
Why should you add indoor plants to your home? Besides making your space look more beautiful, there are several benefits to having plants that are safe for cats:
- Improved Air Quality: Plants like the snake plant and peace lily can help purify the air, removing toxins and improving the overall air quality in your home. This is especially important if you live in a city or have poor ventilation.
- Stress Reduction: Studies have shown that simply being around plants can help reduce stress and anxiety. The act of caring for a plant can also be a calming and therapeutic activity, offering a little break from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Indoor plants add a natural touch to any room, making your home feel fresher and more inviting. Whether you have a large space or a small apartment, plants can brighten up any area and complement your décor.
- Safe for Cats: One of the most important benefits is the peace of mind that comes with knowing your plants won’t harm your curious kitty. With safe options like the Moss Amigos Moss Ball and spider plants, you don’t have to worry about potential toxicity.
How to Care for Indoor Plants Safe for Cats
Taking care of your indoor plants safe for cats is easy with the right knowledge. Here are a few tips to help your plants thrive:
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Watering
Be sure to follow the specific watering needs of each plant. Some, like the Moss Amigos Moss Ball, only need water changes every 2-3 weeks. Others, like ferns and palms, may require more frequent watering. Always check the soil moisture before watering to avoid overwatering. -
Light
Different plants have different light requirements. While the snake plant and ZZ plant do well in low light, plants like the Boston fern and peace lily prefer indirect light. Be sure to place your plants in the right spot to ensure they thrive. -
Humidity
Some plants, like ferns, enjoy humidity, so consider placing them in bathrooms or kitchens. If your home is dry, you can use a humidifier to help your plants thrive. -
Pruning and Cleaning
Regularly trim dead or damaged leaves and dust your plants to keep them healthy. Clean the leaves gently with a damp cloth to remove dust and promote healthy growth.
What Is the Most Toxic Plant to Cats?
While there are many safe indoor plants for cats, there are also several common plants that are toxic to cats. Some of these include:
- Lilies
- Aloe Vera
- Oleander
- Philodendrons
Avoid these plants and check the safety of any plant before bringing it into your home. Always research to ensure you make the right choice for your pet’s safety.
Wrapping Up
There’s no need to choose between a beautiful home and a safe environment for your cat. With the right indoor plants safe for cats, you can enjoy the benefits of plants while keeping your pet safe.
Whether you choose the low-maintenance Moss Amigos Moss Ball or the stunning Boston fern, there are plenty of safe options available.
So go ahead, add some green to your home, and enjoy a peaceful, pet-friendly space!
Frequently Asked Questions
What Plants Are Calming to Cats?
Plants like Moss Amigos, Catnip and Valerian Root are known to have calming effects on many cats, triggering relaxation or playfulness. Lemon Balm can also have a soothing effect. However, not all cats respond the same way—some may become playful instead of relaxed.
What Is the Most Toxic Plant to Cats?
The most toxic plant to cats is the Lily (Lilium spp.), which can cause kidney failure. Other highly toxic plants include Oleander, Sago Palm, and Autumn Crocus. Always keep these plants away from your cat to prevent serious harm.
What Plants Are Good for Cats' Digestion?
Cat Grass is great for digestion and helps expel hairballs. Pumpkin (in small amounts) can also aid digestion. Aloe Vera may soothe the digestive tract, but consult your vet before using it. Always ensure any plant you offer is safe and beneficial.
References:
Rankel, K. (2024, June 18). Variegated spider plant is not toxic to cats . Greg App 🪴. https://greg.app/variegated-spider-plant-toxic-to-cats/#:~:text=%F0%9F%9A%AB%20Non%2DToxic%20Nature%20Clarified,deadly%20but%20definitely%20not%20recommended.
