When you are a cat parent who is fond of greenery, you have likely wondered: What houseplants are safe to keep cats? The fact of the matter is that not every plant can be combined with inquisitive paws and bites of fun. There are some indoor plants that are toxic to cats and may lead to digestive complications and even death.
The good news? You do not even need to decide between your passion of plants and your passion of your cat. By the correct choice, you will be able to make an indoor jungle, which will be full of safe plants that cats cannot harm.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
- ✅ 20 cat-safe houseplants you can grow confidently
- 🚫 A quick list of plants to avoid if you have cats
- 🌱 Tips for styling your space with pet-friendly greenery
Why Choose Cat-Safe Houseplants?
Cats are inquisitive animals and usually chew on the leaves, dig in the soil or knock over the pots. Some examples of toxic plants have mild stomach ache symptoms or severe poisoning. You protect your cats by not putting them inside unsafe plants:
- Protect your pet’s health and safety
- Reduce stress and vet bills
- Enjoy peace of mind while decorating with greenery
20 Cat-Safe Houseplants for Your Home
Here’s a list of beautiful, non-toxic options approved by the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals):
1. Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens)
A graceful, air-purifying palm that thrives in bright, indirect light.
2. Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans)
Low-maintenance and stylish, perfect for small spaces.
3. Bamboo Palm (Chamaedorea seifrizii)
Adds tropical vibes while being completely safe for cats.
4. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Hardy, beginner-friendly, and fun for cats to play with.
5. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
Lush and feathery, but loves humidity—great for bathrooms.
6. Maidenhair Fern (Adiantum spp.)
Delicate and pet-safe, though a little fussier to care for.
7. Calathea (Calathea spp.)
Known for its striking patterned leaves that close at night.
8. Prayer Plant (Maranta leuconeura)
Colorful and safe—perfect for tabletops or hanging baskets.
9. Ponytail Palm (Beaucarnea recurvata)
Technically a succulent, with fun, cascading leaves.
10. Rattlesnake Plant (Calathea lancifolia)
A dramatic houseplant that’s cat-friendly and low-tox.
11. African Violet (Saintpaulia)
Pretty blooms in various colors, completely safe for cats.
12. Orchids (Phalaenopsis spp.)
Elegant flowering plants that brighten any room.
13. Bromeliads (Bromeliaceae family)
Tropical, colorful, and easy to grow indoors.
14. Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)
Hardy, low-light tolerant, and pet-safe.
15. Haworthia (Haworthia spp.)
Small succulent that looks like an aloe but is non-toxic.
16. Hens and Chicks (Sempervivum spp.)
Safe succulents perfect for windowsills.
17. Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera spp.)
Festive blooms and safe for curious cats.
18. Friendship Plant (Pilea involucrata)
Unique textured leaves and easy care.
19. Baby Tears (Soleirolia soleirolii)
Cute trailing plant that looks great in terrariums.
20. Polka Dot Plant (Hypoestes phyllostachya)
Bright splashes of pink or red, non-toxic to cats.
Plants to Avoid: Toxic for Cats 🚫
Some popular houseplants are unsafe and should be kept out of reach (or avoided entirely):
- Lilies (Lilium & Hemerocallis spp.) – Highly toxic, even pollen is dangerous
- Aloe Vera – Healing for humans, harmful to cats
- Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata) – Contains saponins
- Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) – Can irritate mouth and stomach
- Philodendrons – Contain calcium oxalates
- Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane) – Causes burning sensation and swelling
- Sago Palm (Cycas revoluta) – Extremely toxic, even deadly
Tips for Decorating with Cat-Safe Plants
- 🪴 Use sturdy pots to avoid tipping accidents
- 🌿 Hang trailing plants out of reach if your cat is extra curious
- 💧 Cover soil with pebbles to discourage digging
- 🌞 Match plant needs to your light and humidity for longevity
Final Thoughts
Building a cat friendly home does not imply doing away with your love to nature. These indoor safe plants will allow you to keep a very healthy interior garden and at the same time have your cats happy and healthy.
We think that plants and pets can live together in harmony at PurelyPaws. All you need to do is make the right choices and you will have a safe, fashionable and paw-style house.
👉 Pro tip: It is always important to have the safety of a plant verified in a reliable source such as the toxic and non-toxic plant list of the ASPCA, before taking it home.
