Some homeowners collect houseplants as a hobby, while others use flowers and greenery to brighten up the home. However, there are special considerations if you live with pets and want to add plants to your house. Pet-safe houseplants are free from chemicals and compounds toxic to cats and dogs.
What Makes a Plant Pet-Safe?
Non-toxic houseplants are not necessarily good for pets to eat. Instead, “non-toxic” means that your dog or cat won’t die if they consume them. Some houseplants may still cause mild digestive upset if ingested. Because of this, it’s good practice to keep all plants out of your pet’s reach.
African Violets Add Color
African violets are non-toxic and safe for both cats and dogs. They have bright blooms that add color to your living space. African violets are easy to grow in most homes because they thrive in mild temperatures, average humidity, and low light. Take care when watering them, as they don’t like water on their leaves.
Pet-Safe Houseplants: Banana Trees
The banana tree provides attractive, dramatic greenery while still safe for your pets. Banana tree plants do best in bright light and enjoy humid environments. A bathroom with large windows or a sunroom is ideal for this houseplant.
Money Trees are Pet-Safe Houseplants
Money trees are an excellent option if you’re looking for a stunning plant with attractive leaves. Because they are taller plants, their greenery will naturally be out of the reach of cats and dogs. They will do well in a part of your apartment or house that gets indirect sunlight or no more than four hours of direct sunlight each day.
Exotic Venus Flytraps are Non-Toxic
If unusual plants appeal to you, some carnivorous plants are also pet-safe. Venus flytraps are fascinating plants. They’re non-toxic for both cats and dogs, and they will catch flies and gnats in your living spaces.
Polka Dot Plants Add Color and Greenery
For a splash of bright pink color, add polka dot plants to the list of pet-safe houseplants. These plants thrive in various environments and are easy to care for. They are non-toxic to pets and only cause stomach discomfort if a large amount is ingested.
Boston Ferns are Pet-Safe Houseplants
While many pet-safe houseplants lead to stomach upset if ingested in large quantities, Boston ferns don’t cause problems for cats or dogs. They work well in pots or hanging baskets, and these ferns are low maintenance. Humid rooms, including screened porches, are usually an excellent fit for Boston ferns.
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