January 10th is "National House Plant Appreciation" day! Many people keep plants in their homes and it’s easy to see why; they brighten up your home, and some even purify the air. Unfortunately, many plants have varying degrees of toxicity to mammals. Luckily, if you choose your houseplants wisely, they can easily coexist with your beloved pet. Here are a few examples of non-toxic plants to have in your home if you have a pet, as well as a few examples of plants to avoid.
Safe Plant Options
Spider Plant (Chlorophytum Comosum)
Striking and spider-like, spider plants are great hanging plants. They are easy to grow in medium light, simple to care for, and have been popular houseplants since the 1970s. Commonly hung in a macrame plant hanger or sat atop a shelf, spider plants are easily kept away from curious pets.
They are non-toxic to dogs or cats so you don’t have to worry if your pet does happen to nibble on the leaves.
Moth Orchid (Phalaenopsis)
Moth orchids are a type of orchid typically native to the Philippines and Indonesia. They have colourful blooms that are active for most of the year, so they are great for adding colour to your space. Moth Orchids are deceptively easy to care for with bright, indirect sunlight. Try placing it in an east-facing window with a bit of added humidity.
This type of orchid is non-toxic to cats, dogs, and horses.
Boston Fern (Nephrolepis Exaltata)
Boston ferns were a popular parlour plant during Victorian times and are still a popular houseplant today. They are medium-sized plants that thrive in humid conditions, so if you have a bright window in your bathroom, this plant is for you!
This classic plant is non-toxic to dogs and cats, so you don’t have to worry if your pet is tempted to munch on its shaggy, sword-like fronds.
Prayer Plant (Marantaceae)
Commonly found in malls or doctors' offices, Marantaceae are easy to grow and care for. They thrive in medium to low light, aren’t sensitive to under or over-watering, and only grow to about 30 cm.
This beautiful plant is completely non-toxic to cats and dogs.
Staghorn Fern (Platycerium)
Staghorn ferns get their name from their striking appearance; their leaves look just like the horns of a deer. This trendy plant is a great addition to your home for its unique appearance and easy care.
It thrives in direct sunlight and best of all, is non-toxic to cats and dogs.
Plants to Avoid
Many common houseplants are toxic to your pet so it’s best to do your research. Aloe Vera, Pothos, Ivy, Snake Plants, ZZ Plants, Monsteras, and many more common houseplants can make your pet very sick. Also, it's important to remember that even non-toxic plants can cause an upset stomach if your pet nibbles on them.
Aloe Vera
Pothos
Ivy
Snake Plant
ZZ Plant
Monstera
Always do research on new plants that you plan to bring into your home. If you have plants in your house, watch your pet for behaviours such as coughing, vomiting, lethargy, or decreased appetite. Contact your veterinarian if you have concerns about your pet’s health.
Check out more health and safety tips in our "Safety Tips and Health Hazards" tip sheet!
