If you share your home with a cat or a dog, you already know one thing for sure: your pets are way too interested in your plants. Leaves get sniffed. Soil gets dug up. And sooner or later, something gets chewed.
That’s why houseplants in a pet-friendly home aren’t just about style—they’re about safety. The wrong plant can turn a lazy afternoon into a panicked call to the vet.
The good news? You don’t have to choose between greenery and your pets. There are plenty of houseplants that are non-toxic to both cats and dogs, meaning an accidental nibble won’t cause poisoning. Below are 26 pet-safe houseplants that look great and won’t stress you out.
(Quick reminder: “safe” doesn’t mean “meant to be eaten.” It just means not poisonous.)
Easy, Low-Maintenance Pet-Safe Plants
Spider Plant
A classic beginner plant that’s nearly impossible to kill. It’s non-toxic and looks great on shelves or hanging baskets.
Boston Fern
Soft, full, and totally pet-safe. It loves humidity, so bathrooms and kitchens are perfect.
Areca Palm
If you want a tropical look without the danger, this palm is a great choice.
Parlor Palm
Compact, slow-growing, and ideal for apartments with pets.
Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra)
Lives up to its name—tough, forgiving, and safe around animals.
Trailing & Shelf Plants That Won’t Poison Curious Pets
Swedish Ivy
A popular trailing plant that’s easy to grow and safe for cats and dogs.
String of Hearts
Delicate vines, minimal care, and no toxicity worries.
Baby Tears
Tiny leaves and a soft look—just keep it out of heavy paw traffic.
Peperomia (Most Varieties)
Small, stylish, and excellent for desks or side tables.
Friendship Plant (Pilea involucrata)
Textured leaves and a compact shape that works well in pet homes.
Flowering Houseplants That Are Pet-Friendly
Orchids (Phalaenopsis)
Elegant, long-lasting flowers—and surprisingly safe for pets.
African Violet
Perfect for sunny windowsills and small spaces.
Gloxinia
Bold flowers without the hidden toxicity.
Lipstick Plant
Named for its bright red blooms, not dangerous behavior.
Bromeliad
Adds color and structure without putting pets at risk.
Succulents, Ferns, and Texture Lovers
Haworthia
One of the few succulents considered pet-safe. Compact and easy to manage.
Maidenhair Fern
Soft and airy, though it does need consistent watering.
Echinopsis Cactus
Non-toxic, but still spiky—best placed out of reach.
Polka Dot Plant
Colorful leaves that brighten any room.
Rattlesnake Plant (Calathea lancifolia)
Striking leaf patterns and completely pet-safe.
Bonus Pet-Safe Favorites
Prayer Plant (Maranta)
Its leaves move at night, which many cats find fascinating.
Money Tree (Pachira aquatica)
Braided trunks, good vibes, and no toxicity issues.
Bamboo Palm
Tall, elegant, and great for bright corners.
Fittonia (Nerve Plant)
Low-growing and colorful—great for terrariums.
Chinese Money Plant (Pilea peperomioides)
Trendy, easy, and safe for curious noses.
Calathea (Most Varieties)
Beautiful patterns with no pet-related stress.
A Few Things Pet Owners Should Still Keep in Mind
Even with pet-safe plants, a little caution goes a long way:
Non-toxic doesn’t mean edible. Chewing too much can still upset your pet’s stomach.
Soil can be the real problem. Fertilizers, mold, or moisture can attract pets.
Placement matters. Hanging plants or higher shelves reduce temptation.
Know the dangerous ones. Lilies, pothos, snake plants, and philodendrons are common but toxic.
If your pet shows symptoms like vomiting, drooling, or unusual behavior after chewing a plant, contact your vet to be safe.
You Don’t Have to Choose Between Pets and Plants
A pet-friendly home doesn’t have to be plant-free. With the right choices, you can enjoy lush greenery, interesting textures, and even flowers—without constantly worrying about what your cat just tasted or what your dog knocked over.
Choose smart, place thoughtfully, and enjoy a home that works for both you and your pets.