As summer turns to fall here in Richmond, and we start bringing our plants and gardens indoors, you might be asking yourself: which plants are pet safe? Educating ourselves on plant toxicity is the best way to keep our curious doggy and feline friends safe. Below is a list of pet safe houseplants that are low-risk to keep in your pet friendly home.
Pet Safe Houseplants
Please keep in mind that plants that are safe for one species may not be safe for others. For example, while pothos can help regulate the nutrients in your fish tank, they are toxic if ingested by cats and dogs! We always recommend checking with your veterinarian if you have specific questions about your pet’s health and safety.
This is by no means a comprehensive list. There are plenty more pet safe options out there! For a more in-depth look at plant toxicity, take a look at this guide from the ASPCA. Happy planting!
Catnip
Catnip is an easy-to-grow herb that tolerates droughts and neglect. It thrives in full sun and can tolerate any weather conditions, making it a fantastic option to grow either indoors or outdoors. It is considered a perennial and will grow year-round. It grows rapidly and spreads quickly during the summer months, so you might want to contain it to a pot if growing outdoors.
There are plenty of other pet safe herbs to satisfy that gardening itch, including cat grass, basil, thyme, and cilantro.
Spider Plants
Spider plants are low maintenance plants that love bright, indirect light and would do well in a sunny window, watering about once a week when the soil has dried out. They do well in average household humidity but do not tolerate cold temperatures. They grow quickly in the warmer months and make for gorgeous hanging decor. Mature plants will also shoot out lovely flowering stems and “babies,” making them extremely easy to propagate and gift to friends and family.
Peperomias
Peperomias are similar to succulents in that they love bright, indirect light and infrequent watering. Unlike succulents though, they love high humidity. They do not tolerate cold temperatures, but can handle lower light conditions. Certain varieties have variegated coloring, giving your home a pop of color.
Hoyas
Hoyas love bright, indirect light, high humidity, and drying out in between waterings. They do not tolerate cold temperatures. They would do well in a sunny bathroom window where they can soak in humidity droplets from the shower. They are slow growers and prefer to be slightly root-bound in a chunky soil mixture. They are vining plants and look fantastic as hanging decor, or on a surface with a trellis to climb.
Pileas
Pileas love bright, indirect light and regular watering. Allow them to dry out between waterings, but don’t let them get bone dry. They do well in average household humidity and can tolerate cold (but not freezing) temperatures for short periods of time. Rotate your plant frequently to keep its symmetrical shape.
Palms
Aside from the sago palm variety (not pet safe!), palms are another great low maintenance option. Ponytail palms, parlor palms, and majesty palms are all great options. They love bright, indirect light and frequent watering. They are tropical plants that love high humidity and warm temperatures. They do not tolerate cold temperatures. They can grow quite large and make a great statement piece for your home decor.
Orchids
Orchids love bright, indirect light and regular fertilizing. They are epiphytes, which means they do not grow in soil, and prefer a chunky, barky medium. They do well in average household humidity and can tolerate cold (but not freezing) temperatures for short periods of time. They are prone to root rot and can be easily over-watered. Their tricky care routine may require a more experienced gardener to thrive.
Ferns
Ferns love low light, high humidity conditions. They LOVE water and do not like when their soil dries out completely. They don’t like to sit in soggy soil though, so using an airy, well-draining mixture is essential. They do not tolerate cold temperatures. They are notoriously finicky to grow indoors and may require a more experienced gardener to thrive.
Calatheas
Calatheas are notoriously finicky, but if you are up for the challenge, they produce stunning foliage and help brighten up any room. They do not tolerate cold temperatures. They thrive in bright, indirect light, very high humidity, and frequent watering. They are sensitive to the excess mineral content in tap water and may prefer distilled or rain water.
Plants To Avoid
Staying educated on plant toxicity is the safest and most proactive way to keep your pets safe. Hanging pots and macrame hangers are an effective and cute way to enjoy your decor without putting your family at risk.
If you absolutely looooove the look of a plant (we totally get it too), consider using macrame hangers to keep them up high and out of reach. When in doubt, keep them out!
Avoid: Lilies
Ingestion may cause mouth irritation, difficulty swallowing, vomiting, kidney failure, and even death if left untreated.
Avoid: Sago Palms
Ingestion may cause severe gastrointestinal upset, nervous system damage, liver failure, and even death if left untreated.
Avoid: Dieffenbachias
Ingestion may cause burning/swelling of the mouth and tongue, difficulty swallowing, vomiting, increased salivation, suffocation, and even death if left untreated.
What Should I Do If I Suspect My Pet Has Been Poisoned?
Common symptoms of plant poisoning include: vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty swallowing, excessive salivation, lethargy, disorientation, and confusion. If you witness your pet ingest a plant that you know is poisonous, don’t wait for symptoms to appear! Go to the nearest emergency veterinarian right away! Call ahead to let them know when you are on your way so they can prepare for you and reduce the wait as much as possible.
If you are unable to get to the vet, dial (888) 426-4435 to reach the ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control Hotline, available 24/7.
🌱 Why Richmond Pet Parents Need This Info
Richmond heat and humidity mean many of us swap outdoor plants indoors — but not all are safe for dogs or cats.
As professional dog walkers, we know firsthand how often curious pups investigate every leaf and sprig.
We believe education is key — our training in Fear Free handling and Pet First Aid means you get both care and guidance.
Want to get connected with a team of award-winning professional dog walkers in Richmond? Contact us today to schedule your Meet & Greet, and give us a follow on social media to stay up to date on our content!