As an avid gardener and pet owner for over 10 years, I’ve learned a thing or two about creating a safe and lush indoor garden where both my plants and pets can thrive. With a bit of planning and research into non-toxic varieties, you can cultivate a pet-friendly plant paradise too!
Over my decade of experience, I’ve accumulated over 50 houseplants that peacefully coexist with my two curious cats and energetic dogs. Through trial and error, I’ve discovered which species tend to withstand nibbles and tramplings better than others. I’ve also honed my green thumb to expertly care for plants so they remain healthy despite the occasional mishap from an overly playful pup.
In this article, I’ll share my top tips for choosing the best pet-friendly plants, proper placement to avoid accidents, training pets to respect your indoor garden, and proper plant care for durability. Follow my advice and you’ll be on your way to creating a harmonious oasis for both flora and fauna!
Safest Pet-Friendly Plant Varieties
When selecting houseplants, it’s critical to know which species are toxic to pets and which are safest if ingested. Over years of research, I’ve curated a list of my top 10 non-toxic, pet-friendly options that add beauty without risk:
- Spider Plant: With long, cascading leaves, this easy-to-grow plant is a favorite for hanging baskets. It’s non-toxic and able to withstand some curious nibbles. The long leaves also make it more difficult for pets to reach the main plant. For more information on pet-safe plants, see the ASPCA’s list.
- Ponytail Palm: The swollen, curved trunk of this succulent mimic makes it cute and unique. Its toxicity level is very low, though the spiky leaves may deter pets from chewing anyway. It’s drought-tolerant and brightens up any space. Learn more about Ponytail Palms from The Spruce.
- Christmas Cactus: With showy red, pink, or white flowers around the holidays, this classic cactus has very low toxicity if ingested. The smooth segmented leaves shouldn’t pose harm from little pricks either. It’s one of my favorite low-maintenance plants. Find more about Christmas Cacti on Gardening Know How.
- Boston Fern: This beautifully arching fern makes a great hanging plant and thrives in low-light indoor spaces. It has a low chance of irritating pets if nibbled and I’ve found it to withstand my pets’ antics well over the years. For details on Boston Fern care, visit The Spruce.
- Philodendrons: Offering a huge variety of leaf shapes, sizes, and colors, Philodendrons are some of my favorite houseplants. Most are non-toxic to pets, though some extra precautions should be taken with cats and the heartleaf variety. Overall, they’re durable, simple-to-grow plants. Discover more about Philodendrons on Garden Design.
- Haworthias: These tiny succulents are very durable and able to handle some abuse. Their thick, pointed leaves may deter nibbles anyway. I use them as decor in glass terrariums where pets can’t access them. They stay safe while lending a unique texture. Learn more about Haworthias from Succulent Alley.
- Air Plants: Completely pet-safe, these tiny epiphytes are perfect for hanging containers or glass terrariums out of pets’ reach. They don’t even need soil, just occasional watering and humidity! I have dozens adorning my home. For more on Air Plants, see Air Plants 101.
- Parlor Palms: With feathery fronds, these compact palms thrive indoors. Their toxicity level is very low, plus their stiff leaves don’t entice pets to nibble. I have several enhancing my living room without issue. Read more about Parlor Palms at The Spruce.
- Peperomias: Available in a huge variety of colors/patterns, these fleshy-leaved plants are completely non-toxic. Their thick leaves seem to withstand my curious pets better than thin-leaved options. I have over a dozen peperomia varieties brightening up shelves around my home. Discover more about Peperomias at Houseplant Central.
- Pothos: No indoor garden is complete without easy-to-grow pothos. Their trailing vines and patterned leaves quickly cascade from hanging baskets. They are durable, low maintenance, and non-toxic for worry-free planting. Learn more about Pothos care from The Spruce.
Strategic Plant Placement
In addition to choosing pet-safe plant varieties, strategic placement can reduce accidents and damage. Over the years, I’ve developed some best practices:
- Keep plants out of reach: Place them on high shelves and plant stands, or within hanging containers. Use cacti and succulents as elevated windowsill decor. For tips on safe plant placement, see Petfinder’s advice.
- Set boundaries: Train pets to avoid certain plant-filled areas using pet gates. You can also use motion-activated devices to deter access. Learn more about pet training and boundaries at The Humane Society.
- Use containers with weight: Opt for heavy cache pots or attach pots to plant stands so they can’t be knocked over easily. For ideas on sturdy plant containers, visit Gardening Know How.
- Place thorny/spiky plants wisely: Cacti and some succulents have protective spikes. Place them where accidents are less likely, avoiding main walkways.
With some planning, you can display gorgeous plants safely! Section them off in plant-only zones, use protective containers, and keep fragile varieties elevated or behind barriers. Make smart choices and green up your home without fear!
Pet-Proof Plant Care
To increase their durability against pet accidents, properly caring for your plants is key. Over the years, I’ve developed a watering, pruning, and fertilizing regimen that strengthens plants to withstand occasional nibbles or knock-overs. Here are my top plant care tips:
- Water wisely: Check soil daily and water when slightly dry. Moist (but not soaked) soil makes plants more resilient and less tempting to nibble. For tips on watering, visit The Spruce.
- Prune for fullness: Trim plants to promote bushy, compact growth with less spindly bits for pets to chase and bite. Remove damaged sections promptly.
- Use slow-release fertilizer: Feed plants according to label instructions to maintain health. Healthy plants recover faster from pet mishaps. Learn more about plant fertilization at The Spruce.
- Check for toxicity: If you suspect a plant was ingested, immediately check toxicity levels and call your vet if concerned. Keep the ASPCA’s poison control hotline handy. For more on pet toxicity, see ASPCA’s Poison Control.
- Inspect after accidents: Should your pet interact with plants, do a thorough inspection. Remove and discard damaged portions. Monitor the plant and pet closely in the following days. For more on pet health and safety, visit PetMD.
With attentive, preventative care you can have a safe and thriving indoor garden that withstands energetic pets. Be vigilant, train pets to respect plant areas, and nurture your greenery to durability. Follow my tips and you’ll be enjoying a lush pet-friendly plant oasis in no time!
For more insights on pet care and the latest in pet hacks, check out our The Ultimate Guide to Pet Hacks- 15 Tricks Every Pet Owner Should Know.
Katayoun is the founder, author and admin of Pawssomedaily.com, a leading resource for pet enthusiasts and caregivers. With over a decade of experience in pet care and animal behavior, Katayoun has established herself as a trusted authority in the field. Her insights, drawn from 10 years of hands-on experience and research, have earned her a respected voice among pet lovers. Follow her for the latest updates and expert advice on Instagram at @_katayoun.
