Although many plant lovers collect them, there are multiple houseplants that are toxic to your cats.
Although many plant lovers collect them, there are multiple houseplants that are toxic to your pets. If your pet loves to chew things, you might want to avoid getting those plants for your home. On the other hand, plenty of other plants are pet-friendly. For felines, catnip and cat grass are favorites, but one can also enjoy other houseplants not specifically for cats. Consider beautifying your home with these popular houseplants safe for cats.
African Violets
African violets are fuzzy-leafed, small houseplants that often have pink or purple flowers. They are tabletop plants that prefer indirect sunlight. They sit best at a north or east-facing window and need top-watering at least once a month. These beautiful, hardy little plants will not cause your cat to suffer a debilitating illness if eaten.
Christmas Cactus
The Christmas cactus isn’t just for Christmas, and your pets won’t mind it either! This particular cactus has colorful, tubular blooms that dangle at the end of a stem like bright ornaments. They can sit on the floor, on a shelf, or on a window sill. They prefer partial shade and a temperature between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
Baby’s Tears
Baby’s tears is a type of creeping plant that only grows up to 1-5 inches tall. Often mistaken for a moss, it has many round, little leaves that clump and cascade from its pot. This plant is no stranger to Japanese gardens.
Boston Fern
The Boston fern, also known as the sword fern, is a popular houseplant safe for cats that thrives in a pot or a hanging basket. These plants need at least two hours of indirect sunlight per day, but otherwise thrive in sunny conditions. They are non-toxic to cats, dogs, and humans.
Succulents
Some succulents are toxic to cats, but many others are not. Remember, there are over 10,000 succulent species to choose from, and only a handful are off-limits. Popular succulents safe for cats include echeveria, zebra hawthornia, burro’s tail, ponytail palm, and the Christmas cactus.
Prayer Plant
Plants of the Marantaceae family have become increasingly popular over the past decade or so. The Maranta leuconeura, or prayer plant, is one that is totally safe to have in a cat household. They prefer a west or south-facing room, high humidity, and well-drained soil.
Trust the Care of Your Pet to the Professionals at Everhart Veterinary Medicine!
At Everhart Veterinary Medicine, our veterinary professionals strive to provide your pet with the very best of veterinary care. We believe that the best care for your pet should be provided by experienced, compassionate, and knowledgeable veterinary professionals. With two Maryland locations in both Baltimore and Pasadena, we are always ready to welcome your pet as a new patient! Give us a call today at 410-355-3131 or 410-793-7670! For more information, as well as updates on veterinary news and topics, visit us on Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn!