Non-Toxic Houseplants That Are Safe for Cats

You have a problem: your cat just can’t keep their paws to themselves and keep destroying your houseplants, some of which contain numbing agents or are toxic. Essentially, it boils down to a precarious situation – choose the plant or the cat – a dilemma all too familiar to those with toxic exes. 

However, unlike a toxic ex, a compromise is possible: cats are able to coexist with houseplants that can bear a little tear, are non-toxic, and don’t mind falling over once or twice. 

Here’s a list of non-toxic houseplants that can withstand the occasional chewing. 

 

1. Spider Plant 

It’s in the spider plant’s bone marrow to be sturdy, if it had a bone marrow. Cats love chewing on spider plants, sometimes developing an almost obsessive, though harmless, compulsion. Spider plants release a safe, non-toxic compound, similar to catnip, that can alter your cat’s mental state without any toxins. If your cat is constantly getting high on your supply, hang them somewhere out of reach. To ensure your plants receive the recommended amount of light in high, enclosed places, use grow lights.

2. Prayer Plant 

You can sleep with a smile knowing that your prayer plant is safe from cats, and vice versa. Growing naturally on the forest floor, they are shadow plants that are amenable to low-light. Too much light can cause it to wilt, so it’s best to place it in a medium lit area. Cats nibble the tips sometimes, but the damage is inconsequential. 

3. Chinese Money Plant 

Fainting, frail houseplants can take the exit, and so can poison-laden plants that induce violent reactions in your pets. On the contrary, the vibrantly green Chinese money plant is suitable for homes with cats, as it contains a lack of lethal toxins. If the disc-like leaves start to turn yellow, it is a sign you may have overwatered it, indicating an issue with root rot. 

4. Cast Iron Plant

In terms of durability, the cast-iron plant ranks first, surviving a slew of swipes and other feline antics. Indeed, its leathery leaves have a no-nonsense, almost militaristic demeanor. Gone are the days of dehydrated plants whose leaves have been bitten to oblivion by unruly cats. Find a beautiful modern planter for your houseplants Vego Garden – the innovative design keeps plants hydrated with minimal effort. 

 

5.  Mosaic Plant 

Mosaic plants, or the more ominously named nerve plants, luckily do not sting like a toxic nerve agent. Often ribbed with delicate traceries of pink, nerve plants are perfectly safe for cats and thrive in low light. They prefer humid environments, making them ideal as bathroom décor. They will droop dramatically if they encounter a dearth of water. Keep away from direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves. 

6. Herb Plants   

 

Certain herb plants like basil, parsley, and thyme are safe for cats in moderation. They offer fragrant leaves that both humans and felines can enjoy. Some cats even love chewing on fresh herbs, gaining a euphoric, “high” reaction. Not all herbs are good for cats – garlic, chives, and those in the onion family can cause an upset stomach.  

7. African Violet

 

African violets have an entirely reasonable relationship with cats and won’t endanger them. In fact, they are remarkably similar in nature to cats: they sport fuzzy textures, begging to be touched, and are veterans in the art of drama. They like bright, indirect light and a consistent drink of water – too much and their roots stage a revolt, too little and they sulk with droopy leaves.  

8. Christmas Cactus

Although Christmas cacti do have a commercial stigma, they are a spectacular sight when in full bloom, such that one almost forgets their commonness. They thrive in bright, indirect light and prefer soil that’s allowed to dry slightly between waterings. Cat-friendly and low-maintenance, Christmas cacti are the silent cheerleaders of your home, adding a festive touch.

9. Donkey Tail Plant

The donkey tail plant is a funny looking plant that resembles a cascade of fuzzy green sausages. Like most succulents, it does well when neglected, shrugging off inconsistent watering and lack of care. However, it can be easily damaged by swats from your cat, so if your pet starts getting the wrong idea, it’s best to place it in a far-off place away from their immediate vicinity. 

10. Ponytail Palm 

 Ponytail palms, while not exactly showstoppers, require minimal attention and won’t pose a threat to your pets. Their bulbous trunk serves to store water, allowing the plant to survive extended droughts. They languidly hang in the back, on a ledge or coffee table, giving off a sort of desert vibe. Its long leaves are hardy and won’t incur any damage lest your cat decides to use them as a free-for-all. 

11. Rattlesnake plant

Cats are capricious, fey creatures who decide that everything from rats to rattlesnake plants are delicious – and in the event that they do ingest them, you at least won’t have to deal with a sick pet. Rattlesnake plants have a striking, almost artisanal decoration to them, with textured spots in a brushstroke pattern. A spot near a north or east-facing window is ideal. 

12. Lithops 

Lithops may have a slightly suspicious appearance, but those leathery stumps store only water, not poison. Due to their inconspicuous appearance and texture, cats tend to leave lithops alone, though you may get the occasional delinquent who mauls through them. Lithops are drought tolerant, having adapted to semi-arid regions, but need areas where it receives plenty of direct sunlight.