The Ultimate Guide to Houseplants That are Safe for Cats

Sharing your home with cats means finding the perfect balance between stylish décor and a safe environment. For many pet owners, houseplants are a big part of making a space look and feel alive. But as cat lovers know, a curious kitty will chew on just about anything leafy. They’re also like to bat things around and occasionally push things off surfaces. How do you balance your desire for a beautiful leafy home with your desire and responsibility to keep your kitty safe? Let’s discuss houseplants that are safe for cats.

I’ve had cats for decades and never had one chew or destroy any of my plants. In fact, it never even occurred to me that houseplants might be toxic to cats! Since mine always left ours alone, I never gave it a second thought. Then my youngest daughter fostered (and later adopted) a couple of kitties in her home and suddenly it became an issue! Thankfully neither of her cats got sick, but they did positively destroy most of her houseplants. I had no idea this was even a thing….cats shredding, by claw or teeth, houseplants?  

I fell so completely in love with her cats that I forgave them for being plant murderers and vowed to find a solution. We asked around and looked up plants we came across at Home Depot to find non-toxic plants. We identified several beautiful plants my daughter could still have and keep her cats safe. Then we worked to figure out how to keep the plants safe from the kitties! 

Choosing houseplants safe for cats ensures your feline friends stay happy and healthy while letting you enjoy a fresh, green home. Never fear, there are lots of cool looking plants that are suitable for homes with cats! 

Top Non-Toxic Houseplants for Cats

If you’re ready to green up your home without risking your cat’s health, start with these feline-safe plants. They’re beautiful, easy to care for, and won’t harm your curious kitty.

Orchids 

Beautiful and exotic, orchids are a stunning addition to your home. Even after the last gorgeous bloom falls, the unassuming dark green leaves continue to make a pretty picture. If you learn to properly care for them, they will bloom over and over again. They are the ultimate in houseplants that are safe for cats, but honestly anyone would want to have some of these beauties in their home.

Spider Plant

The spider plant is like the old friend of indoor greenery—undemanding and always there to brighten your day. With its cascading green-and-white striped leaves, it works well in hanging baskets or pots. Cats seem to love its soft, grass-like texture, but rest easy because it’s completely non-toxic.

These hardy plants don’t need much attention. They thrive in indirect light and are perfect for beginners. As a bonus, spider plants are natural air-cleaners, removing toxins like carbon monoxide and formaldehyde from your home. Think of them as tiny, leafy scrubbers that look amazing while purifying the air.

Many spider plants will also have “pups” which are baby spider plants that grow directly from the main plant! They’re very easy to transplant and honestly if your spider plant produces pups, you’ll never have a shortage of plants to share with friends or populate every room of your home. 

Boston Fern

If you want a plant that screams “lush and elegant,” the Boston fern fits the bill. Its feathery, bright-green fronds can make any room feel cozy yet vibrant. Unlike some fussier ferns, this one is fairly easygoing. Plant it in moist soil, keep it in indirect light, and mist it regularly—it loves humidity.

Cats will often paw at the fronds, maybe even bat them around, but there’s no need to panic. Boston ferns are completely safe for feline friends. A great tip? Place it in a hanging basket or elevated planter to keep it out of reach while still showing off its stunning foliage.

Bamboo Palm

The bamboo palm offers an exotic vibe for your home without any risk to your cats. Its long, arching fronds give it a tropical aesthetic, and at full height, it can grow to an impressive 4-12 feet. If your décor is calling for something bold but safe, this is the plant for you.

Aside from its beauty, the bamboo palm works as a natural humidifier and purifier, absorbing bad odors and airborne toxins. It’s happiest in a well-lit spot with indirect sunlight and moist soil. Just give it a roomy pot, and watch it thrive.

Old Man Cactus

I freaking love these cacti. They are aptly named and their fuzzy grey hair-like appearance really does indeed look like an old man. This cactus is fun and cool. It will thrive in dry environments so if you don’t live in a humid area this plant may be one for you to check out.  

It does have prickly spines like most cacti so it may not be suitable for homes with young children. 

As with most cacti, don’t overwater this guy. Let this plant dry out a little in between waterings. 

Christmas Cactus

This one is another one of my favorites. It’s very pretty year round with its dark green segmented cascading leaves. It lends itself to hanging so would be easier to get it in a spot the kitty can’t get to. 

With proper care, this gorgeous plant will bloom a couple of times a year (once generally around Christmas time, thus the name). The flowers are vibrant, beautiful and abundant. Yes please!!

African Violets

I know I say this about all the plants, but this one is my favorite…..well, it’s another one of my favorites! They’re all my favorites! These stunning plants have attractive soft fuzzy leaves AND they bloom repeatedly throughout the year. What’s not to love? They come in many colors and they’re very easy to care for.

In care guides, I often see that they will grow well in low-light indirect conditions. Wait! What?! I guess this is true if you don’t care if they flower or not. Yes, you can keep them healthy and green in many areas of your home, but I have found African Violets to be extremely finicky about the conditions they will flower in. I keep mine in a bathroom that gets western and southern exposure. They get some direct (through the window) sunlight but mostly indirect light as they are not right up against the window. They get enough humidity in the bathroom from the daily showers that they thrive in this environment and bloom constantly.

If you have an African Violet that isn’t blooming try moving it to a place where it’s closer to the window, getting a bit more light, and perhaps a southern exposure. 

Benefits of Having Plants With Cats

Why mix plants and pets? Houseplants that are safe for cats not only keeps your feline friend safe—it benefits both owner and pet in surprising ways.

Air Quality Improvement

Houseplants are nature’s air filters. They absorb pollutants and release oxygen, improving indoor air for everyone. When paired with cats, the effect is even better. Cleaner air keeps your furry friend healthier, supporting better breathing and fewer allergens. It’s like giving your home a mini rainforest.

Stress Relief

Ever notice how a calm, green space makes everyone feel better? That includes your cat. Plants can reduce stress, create a soothing atmosphere, and even help regulate your cat’s mood. Cats aren’t immune to anxiety—adding plants can work wonders for their emotional balance (and yours).

Enhanced Home Aesthetics

Nothing ties a room together like a well-positioned plant. They add texture, vibrance, and life to your space, making it feel more welcoming. I have always loved a houseful of gorgeous plants.

Tips for Choosing Cat-Safe Plants

Ready to go plant shopping? Here’s a quick guide to make sure your picks are actually houseplants that are in fact safe for cats.

Research Plant Varieties

Before grabbing the prettiest plant at the nursery, check if it’s safe for your cat. There are plenty of online databases and resources to confirm whether a plant is toxic or not. Better safe than sorry—one look could save you a trip to the vet.

Monitor Cat Behavior

When you introduce a new plant, keep an eye on your cat’s reaction. Some cats love nibbling leaves or digging in pots, while others ignore plants entirely. Watch and adjust the plant’s placement if necessary to prevent unwanted snacking.

Consult With Experts

Still unsure? Reach out to a vet or gardening expert for advice. They can provide detailed, personalized tips based on your home, plants, and pets.

Keep Plants Out of Reach for Cats

Even cat-safe plants can be overly tempting to mischievous felines. Not only do you want to find houseplants that safe for cats but you want to keep your houseplants safe from your cats! Keeping plants out of reach helps both your greenery and your cats coexist peacefully.

• Use Hanging Planters: Hang plants from the ceiling or place them on high shelves. Cats might be curious, but they usually won’t scale walls for plants.
• Plant Rooms With Closed Doors: Dedicate a space to your greenery where your cat doesn’t have access. Think of it as your little indoor garden hideaway.
• Provide Cat-Friendly Greens: Grow a pot of catnip or wheatgrass just for your cat. Cats love these plants and might leave your others alone after nibbling their favorite snack.

Houseplants That are Safe for Cats For the Win!

Creating a home that’s stylish, green, and safe for your cat isn’t as hard as it seems. With a little research and a few plant-savvy strategies, you can enjoy the benefits of indoor plants while keeping your feline friend’s health a priority. From spider plants to bamboo palms, there are plenty of beautiful, non-toxic options to brighten your space.

A happy home isn’t just about the décor. It’s about the entire environment that you create: beautiful, safe, relaxing and fresh. So go ahead—embrace the joy of green living with your furry companion by your side.