Which houseplants are safe for cats?
Top cat-safe houseplants
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) maintains a searchable database of toxic and non-toxic plants. According to their list, these plants are considered non-toxic to cats: spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum), Boston fern (Nephrolepis exaltata), African violet (Saintpaulia), and most species of haworthia and echeveria.
Other safe options include:
Keep in mind that even non-toxic plants can cause mild stomach upset if a cat eats a lot of them, so it's best to discourage chewing.
- Spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
- Boston fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
- African violet (Saintpaulia)
- Haworthia (Haworthia species)
- Echeveria (Echeveria species)
- Prayer plant (Maranta leuconeura)
Why scientific names matter
Common names can be confusing. For example, 'spider plant' might refer to Chlorophytum comosum (safe) or to a different plant like Cleome (not safe). Always check the scientific name against a reliable source like the ASPCA's toxic and non-toxic plant database.
Also, some plants that are safe for cats may still be toxic to dogs or other pets. If you have multiple pets, verify safety for each species.
If your cat eats a plant
Even if a plant is considered non-toxic, eating it can cause vomiting or diarrhea in some cats. If you suspect your cat has eaten a toxic plant, contact your veterinarian or a pet poison control hotline immediately. Don't wait for symptoms to appear.
Common mistakes
- Assuming a plant is safe because it's sold as a 'houseplant'—many common houseplants like lilies and pothos are toxic to cats.
- Relying on common names alone; always confirm the scientific name to avoid misidentification.
- Thinking that non-toxic means a cat can eat unlimited amounts—overeating any plant can cause digestive upset.
