12 Plants Safe For Cats With pictures [Indoor and Outdoor and Low-Light]

As a cat lover, you understand how important it is to keep our feline friends safe from harm. And hey, I know how tough it can be to strike a balance between your love for plants and your devotion to your cat’s well-being. But fear not! I’ve compiled a list of 12 cat-safe plants that you can comfortably add to your home without worrying about your furry friend’s health.

There are many plants as safe choices for households with cats like Spider Plant, Boston Fern, Areca Palm, Catnip, Cat Grass, Bamboo, African Violet, Maidenhair Fern, Cast Iron Plant, Christmas Cactus, Ponytail Palm, and Hawthornia. These feline-friendly plants not only add a touch of greenery to your home but also provide a safe and engaging environment for your curious companions.

Best Plants Safe For Cats

1. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)

Care Tips: Spider plants thrive in indirect light and well-draining soil. Water them moderately, allowing the soil to dry between waterings. They are resilient and can adapt to various conditions.
Cat Interaction: Cats may enjoy batting at the long, arching leaves. Hanging the plant or placing it in a less accessible location prevents accidental tipping.
Health Benefits: Spider plants are known for their air-purifying qualities. While not a substitute for proper ventilation, having them in your home may contribute to a healthier environment.

2. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)

Care Tips: Boston ferns prefer high humidity environments and bright, indirect light. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Regular misting can help maintain the required humidity.
Cat Interaction: The lush, green fronds provide an attractive setting for cats. Placing the fern in areas with vertical space, like hanging baskets, can prevent playful interference.
Health Benefits: Boston ferns can contribute to indoor air quality by adding humidity and filtering pollutants.

3. Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens)

Care Tips: Areca palms thrive in bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. Water them regularly, allowing the top inch of soil to dry between waterings. They appreciate a humid environment.
Cat Interaction: The butterfly palm’s large fronds may attract cats. Placing the plant in a spacious area reduces the likelihood of accidental damage.
Additional Information: Areca palms can grow into large indoor trees, providing a tropical atmosphere to your living space.

4. Catnip (Nepeta cataria)

Care Tips: Catnip is easy to grow in both garden beds and indoor pots. It prefers well-draining soil and partial sunlight. Prune the plant regularly to encourage fresh growth.
Cat Interaction: Catnip is a cat favorite, providing a stimulating experience. Growing it in pots indoors or in a secure garden area allows your cats to enjoy it without risking damage to other plants.
Health Benefits: Catnip can have a calming effect on cats and may be used to alleviate stress or encourage play.

5. Cat Grass (Dactylis glomerata)

Care Tips: Cat grass, a type of cereal grain, grows well in containers. Provide it with ample sunlight and water regularly. Consider growing it in a dedicated container to prevent cats from nibbling on other plants.
Cat Interaction: Cats often enjoy nibbling on cat grass, and it may help with their digestion. Having a designated area for cat grass can redirect their attention from other potentially harmful plants.
Additional Information: Cat grass can be a beneficial addition to your cat’s diet, aiding in the elimination of hairballs.

6. Bamboo (Phyllostachys spp.)

Care Tips: True bamboo is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in bright, indirect light. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Ensure the container is stable to prevent accidental tipping.
Cat Interaction: Bamboo’s minimalist look can be appealing to cats. While generally safe, avoid “Lucky bamboo,” as it is not cat-friendly.
Additional Information: Bamboo can be a great choice for households looking for a visually interesting, cat-safe plant.

7. African Violet (Saintpaulia)

Care Tips: African violets thrive in indirect light and well-draining soil. Water them from the bottom to avoid water on the leaves. Maintain moderate humidity levels for optimal growth.
Cat Interaction: These charming, small plants with purple flowers may attract cats. Placing them in elevated locations or using deterrents can help protect them from curious feline exploration.
Additional Information: African violets are available in various colors and can add a vibrant touch to your space without posing a risk to your cat.

8. Maidenhair Fern (Adiantum)

Care Tips: Maidenhair ferns prefer indirect light and consistently moist soil. They can be sensitive to changes in their environment, so maintain a stable setting.
Cat Interaction: This delicate-looking fern may be enticing to cats. Position it in a location where your cat won’t be too rough with its fragile fronds.
Additional Information: Maidenhair ferns are a lovely, cat-safe option for those looking to add a touch of elegance to their home.

9. Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)

Care Tips: Cast iron plants are hardy and low-maintenance, thriving in low light and with infrequent watering. They’re well-suited for beginners or those with busy schedules.
Cat Interaction: The robust nature of the cast iron plant makes it less likely to attract cats. Its resilience makes it a suitable choice for various environments.
Additional Information: This tough plant lives up to its name, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a low-maintenance, cat-friendly option.

10. Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera)

Care Tips: Christmas cacti prefer bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. They may bloom with proper care, adding a festive touch.
Cat Interaction: These plants are safe for households with cats. Monitor cats around the cactus, as some may be attracted to the hanging or trailing stems.
Additional Information: Christmas cacti are a seasonal addition that can brighten up your home during the holidays without posing any harm to your feline friends.

11. Ponytail Palm (Beaucarnea recurvata)

Care Tips: Despite its name, the ponytail palm is a succulent. It thrives in bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings, as overwatering can be detrimental.
Cat Interaction: Cats may be attracted to the curly leaves of the ponytail palm, but rest assured, it is completely safe for them. Position the plant in a stable container to prevent accidental tipping.
Additional Information: This unique succulent adds a touch of whimsy to your space and is a resilient choice for cat-friendly households.

12. Hawthornia (Haworthiopsis)

Care Tips: Hawthornias, as cat-friendly succulents, require well-draining soil and bright, indirect light. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Cat Interaction: The hawthornia’s compact and intriguing appearance may attract cats. Ensure it’s placed in a location where your cat won’t disturb its delicate structure.
Additional Information: Hawthornias offer a succulent alternative for those who want to incorporate greenery without the risks associated with other succulents.

You may also be interested in: Most toxic plants for cats.

This is in general, we will classify these plants into (indoor, outdoor, and low-light) and we will also mention some additional options.

Why It’s Important To Know Which Plants Are Safe For Cats?

Our feline friends are curious about nature and often consider plants as an interesting plaything or even a snack. Unfortunately, many common household plants can be harmful, or even deadly, to cats if ingested.

Safe vs. Unsafe Plants: The key is understanding that some plants contain toxins that can cause anything from mild nausea to severe health problems in cats. For instance, lilies are highly toxic to cats and can lead to kidney failure. On the other hand, cat grass is perfectly safe and can aid their digestion.

Preventing Accidents: By being aware of which plants are non-toxic, you can prevent accidental poisonings and create a safer environment for your little explorer. Always double-check before bringing a new plant into your home.

Emergency Situations: In the unfortunate event that your cat does nibble on a dangerous plant, knowing the specifics can be vital when you talk to a vet or an emergency poison hotline. Quick and accurate information could save your cat’s life.

So, for the well-being of your purring companion, it’s smart to keep a list of cat-safe plants handy, and always err on the side of caution when decorating your home with greenery!

Indoor Plants Safe For Cats

Here’s a list of indoor plants that are safe for cats and that can add joy to your home without causing any worry.

1. Cat Grass (Dactylis glomerata)
A classic! Not only is cat grass safe for your fur baby, but it also provides a bit of the outdoors inside. It’s great for their digestion and can help prevent hairballs.

2. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)

These ferns are non-toxic and perfect for homes with cats. They require a bit of humidity and indirect light, making them excellent bathroom companions.

3. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)

Not only is this plant safe, it’s incredibly hardy and easy to care for. The long, arching leaves are fascinating to cats, though, so make sure it’s in a place where they won’t treat it like their personal jungle gym.

4. African Violet (Saintpaulia)

Seeking some color? African violets are your go-to. They are non-toxic and have beautiful flowers that can bloom throughout the year with proper care.

5. Haworthia

These little succulents are perfect for cat-friendly homes. They look a bit like mini aloes (which are not safe for cats), but fear not—they’re entirely non-toxic.

6. Japanese Orchid (Phalaenopsis)

Add a touch of elegance with these non-toxic orchids. They’re a bit more demanding when it comes to care but oh so worth it.

7. Bromeliads

If you want something tropical, bromeliads are a safe bet. They come in a wide range of colors and are relatively easy to care for.

8. Moth Orchid (Phalaenopsis spp.)

Another safe orchid variety, moth orchids can bring a serene beauty to your space without endangering your kitty.

9. Prayer Plant (Maranta leuconeura)

The prayer plant has striking leaves that fold up at night as if in prayer. It’s non-toxic and can be quite the conversation starter.

10. Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens)

Bring a little bit of the tropics indoors. These palms are non-toxic to cats and can grow to a good size, making them a substantial addition to your decor.

Remember, while these plants are safe for cats, any excessive nibbling can cause some mild tummy upset. Always monitor your cat’s interaction with plants and keep any that are known to be toxic well out of paw’s reach.

Outdoor Plants Safe For Cats

let’s dive into a list of outdoor plants that are safe and beautiful for cats to frolic among!

1. Cat Grass (Dactylis glomerata)

Not only is cat grass safe for your feline friends, but they also love it! Cat grass is just a fancier name for different types of grass that are perfectly okay for cats to chew on. It can help with their digestion and provide essential nutrients. Plus, it’s super easy to grow!

2. Catnip (Nepeta cataria)

The most famous cat-friendly plant is, of course, catnip! This herb can stimulate cats when sniffed and often has a sedative effect when eaten. It’s like a little recreational ‘spa’ for cats, right in your garden.

3. Valerian (Valeriana officinalis)

Valerian is another plant that’s known to be adored by cats. While not all cats are affected by it, those that are will show similar signs of euphoria as they do with catnip. It’s also a very pretty plant, so it’s a win-win!

4. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)

Spider plants are great for hanging baskets and are non-toxic to cats. Your kitty may be attracted to the spiderettes that hang down from the parent plant, but no worries, as these plants are safe for a little nibble.

5. Basil (Ocimum basilicum)

If you’re into your herbs, basil is a great choice. It’s not toxic to cats—good news for all the pizza and pasta lovers out there who want to keep their herb garden feline-friendly.

6. Snapdragons (Antirrhinum majus)

Add some color to your garden with these intriguing flowers. They’re perfectly safe for curious cats, and their unique flower shape adds an interesting texture to any garden space.

7. Zinnias (Zinnia spp.)

Zinnia flowers come in a dazzling array of colors and are totally safe for your cat. They can make your garden pop with vibrant colors while still being a safe place for your cat to explore.

8. Marigolds (Tagetes spp.)

Some marigolds are safe. The pot marigold (Calendula officinalis) is one of the safe ones and can brighten your garden with their yellow and orange hues.

9. Roses (Rosa spp.)

Thorns aside, roses pose no threat to cats. Be careful with treated roses, though, as the chemicals found in some fertilizers or pesticides can be harmful to your kitty.

10. Sage (Salvia officinalis)

Finally, if you’re into your culinary herbs, sage can be a fragrant addition to your garden that’s also safe for your cat.

Low Light Plants Safe For Cats

Cats are notorious for munching on greenery, and it’s crucial to know which plants won’t harm them. Here is a curated list of low-light plants that can coexist safely with your curious kitty:

1. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)

Spider plants are a favorite in many households, and for good reason. They’re simple to care for and thrive in less-than-sunny spots. Plus, they’re non-toxic to cats! The long, arching leaves may tempt playful cats, but even if they take a bite, these plants won’t cause harm.

2. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)

The lush, feathery fronds of Boston ferns add a touch of wilderness to your home and they don’t need much light to flourish. They’re also completely safe if your kitty decides to have a nibble.

3. Calathea (Calathea spp.)

With their striking leaf patterns, Calathea plants are not only pet-friendly but also perfect for spots with low light. They’re like living works of art–safe for your cat to admire and occasionally taste.

4. Maidenhair Fern (Adiantum)

Delicate and charming, the Maidenhair fern is another safe option for cat owners. They grow well in shady spots and won’t pose a threat to your pet’s health if ingested.

5. Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)

As tough as its name suggests, the Cast Iron Plant can withstand poor light, irregular watering, and, yes, even your cat’s attention. It’s a worry-free option for both busy plant owners and inquisitive felines.

6. Peperomia (Peperomia spp.)

Peperomia plants come in an array of shapes, sizes, and colors, and they typically do well in low light environments. Safe for cats, these cheery plants can brighten up your home without the stress.

7. Fittonia (Nerve Plant)

Featuring veined leaves, the Fittonia is quite tolerant of low light. It’s non-toxic to cats, which makes it a great choice for those shaded spots your pet might explore.

8. Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans)

For a hint of tropical flair, the Parlor Palm can be a lovely addition to a dim corner of your home. It’s pet-friendly and low maintenance–a winning combination.

9. Prayer Plant (Maranta leuconeura)

Fascinating with their daily leaf movements, Prayer Plants are a safe and intriguing choice for homes with cats. They prefer low light and offer a safe snack for the wandering whiskers in your home.

10. Swedish Ivy (Plectranthus verticillatus)

This fast-growing plant is a robust option that’s ideal if you’re new to houseplants. It does well in lower light conditions and is harmless to your furry companion.

The Dangers Of Toxic Plants For Cats

You adore your furry little friend and want nothing but the safest environment for them, right? But did you know that those lovely plants you have around could be sneaky villains to your cat’s health? Let’s walk you through what could possibly go wrong and why it’s essential to keep an eagle eye on your green friends.

1. A Hidden Chemical Warfare – Toxins in Plants: Some plants produce natural toxins as a defense mechanism against pests, but these same chemicals can be harmful or even deadly to your cat. For example, lilies can cause severe kidney damage, and just a few chews on their leaves can land your kitty in a heap of trouble.

2. Mechanical Meanies – Physical Harm from Plants: It’s not just about what’s inside the plants but also their shape and structure. Certain plants have sharp edges or thorny spikes that can cause physical injury to your curious cat trying to paw or chew on them. So keep an eye on those cacti and roses!

3. Gastro No-No – Digestive Disturbances: Some plants can be less toxic but still upset the delicate balance of your cat’s digestive system. If you notice your cat vomiting or having diarrhea after a plant-chewing spree, it may be time to reconsider your indoor botany.

4. Allergy Alert – It’s Not Just Humans Who Sneeze: Yes, cats can have allergies too! Sometimes, certain plants can trigger an allergic response in your cat, ranging from mild skin irritation to more severe reactions involving respiratory difficulties.

5. Accidental Intoxicants – Beware of Pesticides on Plants: Even if the plant itself isn’t harmful, any pesticides or fertilizers used on it can be. These chemicals can be toxic if ingested, so make sure anything you use on your plants is pet-friendly.

Remember, prevention is better than cure, so it’s crucial to be proactive in protecting your pets. If you suspect your cat has ingested a potentially dangerous plant, contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital immediately. It could save your furry one

Symptoms Of Plant Poisoning In Cats

Below, I’ve put together a list of symptoms you should watch for if you suspect your kitty has ingested a poisonous plant.

1. Vomiting: This is often the first sign that something’s wrong. If your cat is throwing up, it could be a reaction to something toxic they’ve eaten.

2. Diarrhea: Similar to vomiting, diarrhea is an indication that your cat’s body is trying to rid itself of something harmful.

3. Lethargy or Weakness: If your normally energetic cat is suddenly sluggish or seems weaker than usual, it’s a red flag that they’re not feeling well.

4. Difficulty Breathing: Gasping, wheezing, or rapid breathing can occur if a toxic plant affects your cat’s respiratory system.

5. Excessive Drooling or Foaming at the Mouth: This could indicate oral irritation or gastrointestinal upset caused by a poison.

6. Loss of Appetite: Your cat may stop eating due to nausea or an upset stomach after ingesting a toxic plant.

7. Changes in Thirst and Urination: Watch for a sudden increase or decrease in drinking or urination, as it can signal kidney issues from poisoning.

8. Abnormal Heart Rate or Rhythm: Heart palpitations, too slow or too fast a heartbeat could be a sign of toxic effects on the cardiovascular system.

9. Seizures or Tremors: Neurological symptoms like seizures or muscle tremors are serious and warrant immediate veterinary care.

10. Swelling or Irritation in the Mouth: Some plants can cause oral swelling, pain, and irritation, making it hard for your cat to eat or drink.

Keep in mind that this list is not exhaustive, and symptoms can vary based on the type of plant your cat has ingested.