Pet Friendly Indoor Plants for Your Cats and Dogs

Q: Is Monstera and Philodendron the Same?
Monstera and Philodendron are both in the Araceae family, but they are different species. Monstera used to be considered a type of Philodendron, which is why it's sometimes called the "Split-leaf Philodendron."
Q: Can I grow a philodendron in a bathroom?
A: Yes, they can actually thrive in a bathroom, especially if it has a good amount of indirect light and humidity. Bathrooms tend to be humid environments, which is perfect for philodendrons since they love moisture.
Q: Can my philodendron flower indoors?
A: While they can flower in their natural outdoor habitat, they typically don’t flower indoors. Their flowers are small and often hidden beneath the leaves. The plant focuses its energy on producing vibrant foliage, which is why we love it! If your philodendron is producing flowers, that’s a bonus, but don’t expect it to bloom like some other flowering houseplants. Just enjoy the lush, heart-shaped leaves, which are its true beauty.
1. What is pothos, and why is it called Devil’s Ivy?
Pothos, also known as Devil’s Ivy, is an indoor plant prized for its low maintenance and trailing vines. It gets the nickname Devil’s Ivy because it’s one of the easiest houseplants to grow and can survive in low light, making it difficult to kill.
2. Why are my pothos leaves turning yellow?
If your pothos leaves are turning yellow, it’s best not to let the plant sit in overly wet soil. Leaves turn yellow due to overwatering, poor drainage, or lack of light. Make sure your pothos soil is well-draining and allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
3. Is pothos toxic to pets?
Yes, pothos is toxic to cats and dogs if ingested due to calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause vomiting and mouth irritation.
1. How often should I water my echeveria?
Water only when the soil is completely dry, which is usually every 1-2 weeks, depending on temperature and humidity.
2. Can echeveria survive indoors?
Yes, echeveria can thrive indoors if placed in a bright, sunny location, preferably near a south-facing window.
3. Why are my echeveria leaves turning yellow?
Yellow leaves are often a sign of overwatering. Make sure the soil is dry before watering again.
4. Does echeveria need fertilizer?
Echeveria benefits from monthly feeding with a diluted succulent fertilizer during its active growing season (spring and summer).
5. Can echeveria tolerate cold temperatures?
Echeveria is not frost-tolerant. If temperatures drop below 40°F (4°C), move the plant indoors.

If you're a pet parent who loves plants, I know you all want a lush home filled with indoor plants but finding a beautiful greenery that’s safe for your furry friends is all too real. Luckily, there are plenty of non-toxic plants that will satisfy both your plant obsession and keep your pets safe. Here’s a list of some fabulous pet-friendly houseplants to bring fresh air and style to your home without worry!

1. Calathea (Prayer Plant)
Calatheas, or prayer plants, are tropical beauties that hail from South America. Known for their lush, patterned leaves in greens, purples, and pinks, Calatheas bring color and charm to any room. They have a unique rhythm of “praying” as they fold their leaves up at night and open them in the morning. Growing in low, bushy clusters, Calatheas stay compact and are perfect for tabletops or shelves. Plus, they’re completely safe for cats and dogs, making them a stress-free choice if your pets like to explore.
- Soil: Prefers well-draining, peat-based soil.
- Water: Water once a week, keeping the soil moist but not soggy. Check the top inch of soil; if it’s dry, it’s time to water.
- Light: Low to medium indirect light; aim for 4-6 hours daily.
- Temperature: Ideal range is 65-80°F.
- Humidity: High humidity is best; mist regularly or place near a humidifier.

2. Parlor Palm
The Parlor Palm is a classic indoor plant with delicate, feathery fronds that create a soft, tropical feel. Originally from Central America, this palm grows slowly and can reach up to 4 feet indoors, making it a great option for floor decor. Its air-purifying qualities make it a favorite for pet-friendly households, as it’s non-toxic and pet-safe plant. With minimal care requirements, the Parlor Palm is an easygoing plant that brings greenery without worry.
- Soil: Use a light, well-draining potting mix.
- Water: Water every 1-2 weeks, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
- Light: Prefers low to moderate indirect light, around 4 hours daily.
- Temperature: 65-75°F.
- Humidity: Medium; a light misting once a week will suffice.

3. Spider Plant
Spider Plants are beloved for their arching green and white striped leaves, which add a bit of whimsy to any space. Native to southern Africa, these hardy plants grow quickly and produce tiny “baby” plants or spiderettes, which can be propagated. They’re known to purify the air and are entirely pet-friendly plant, so no worries if your pet decides to take a nibble!
- Soil: Use a standard potting mix with good drainage.
- Water: Water once a week, or when the top inch of soil feels dry.
- Light: Bright, indirect light for 4-6 hours is ideal.
- Temperature: 60-75°F.
- Humidity: Moderate; they’re adaptable but appreciate a misting now and then.

4. Peperomia
Peperomias are small, compact plants with thick, succulent-like leaves that come in a variety of shapes and colors, from deep green to variegated patterns. Native to South America, these plants grow slowly and don’t require a lot of maintenance, making them a popular choice for beginners. They’re also completely non-toxic to pets, so even if your cat is curious, there’s no risk.
- Soil: A well-draining potting mix, preferably one with perlite or sand.
- Water: Water every 1-2 weeks, letting the top inch of soil dry out between waterings.
- Light: Bright, indirect light for about 4-5 hours daily.
- Temperature: Thrives in 65-80°F.
- Humidity: Moderate to high; occasional misting helps.

5. Ponytail Palm
The quirky Ponytail Palm, with its slender trunk and long, curly leaves, is actually a succulent rather than a true palm. Originally from Mexico, it’s easy to care for and has a unique look that makes it a conversation starter. Best of all, it’s a pet friendly plant, so it’s safe for households with pets.
- Soil: Cactus or succulent mix for excellent drainage.
- Water: Water every 2-3 weeks; allow soil to dry out fully between waterings.
- Light: Needs bright, indirect sunlight; aim for 5-6 hours daily.
- Temperature: Prefers warmer conditions, 65-80°F.
- Humidity: Low humidity; thrives in dry air.

6. Bromeliad
Bromeliads are tropical plants known for their bright, bold blooms that add a splash of color to any indoor space. They’re slow-growing and prefer low-light environments, making them great for indoor settings.
- Soil: Use a fast-draining potting mix, like orchid or cactus soil.
- Water: Water once a week, keeping the central cup filled with water and the soil lightly moist.
- Light: Low to medium indirect light for about 4 hours daily.
- Temperature: Warm, 70-90°F.
- Humidity: High humidity; mist frequently or place near a humidifier.

7. Maranta (Prayer Plant)
The Maranta, another type of prayer plant, has striking green, red, and purple leaves that fold up at night. This low-growing plant is native to the tropics and loves a humid environment, making it perfect for kitchens or bathrooms.
- Soil: Well-draining, peat-based soil.
- Water: Water once a week, keeping the soil consistently moist but not soggy.
- Light: Low to medium indirect light, 4-6 hours daily.
- Temperature: 60-80°F.
- Humidity: High humidity; mist daily or keep near a humidifier.

8. Areca Palm
The Areca Palm is a popular indoor plant with feathery, arching fronds that bring a tropical feel to any room. Native to Madagascar, it grows slowly indoors and can reach several feet tall. Safe for both cats and dogs, it’s a great choice for adding height and greenery to a space without worry.
- Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix.
- Water: Water every 1-2 weeks, allowing the top inch of soil to dry.
- Light: Prefers bright, indirect light for 5-6 hours daily.
- Temperature: 65-75°F.
- Humidity: Moderate to high; misting once a week is beneficial.

9. Pilea Peperomioides (Chinese Money Plant)
The Pilea, also known as the Chinese Money Plant, has round, pancake-shaped leaves that add a fun, modern touch to any room. This compact plant, native to China, is safe for pets and grows well in a variety of indoor conditions.
- Soil: Well-draining potting soil, like a cactus mix.
- Water: Water once a week, or when the top inch of soil is dry.
- Light: Bright, indirect light for about 4-5 hours daily.
- Temperature: 60-75°F.
- Humidity: Moderate; adapts well but appreciates occasional misting.

10. Boston Fern
The Boston Fern is a lush, arching plant that’s easy to recognize and adds a soft, green touch to any space. Known for its air-purifying abilities, it’s non-toxic to pets and thrives in humid conditions. Native to tropical forests, it does well in bathrooms or areas with higher humidity.
- Soil: Moist, well-draining potting mix.
- Water: Water twice a week to keep the soil consistently moist.
- Light: Indirect light, about 4 hours daily.
- Temperature: 60-75°F.
- Humidity: High humidity; mist frequently or place near a humidifier.

11. Baby Rubber Plant (Peperomia obtusifolia)
The Baby Rubber Plant, also called Peperomia obtusifolia, is a compact, low-maintenance plant with thick, glossy leaves in shades of green and sometimes variegated with cream or yellow. Originally from the tropical rainforests of South America, this plant grows in a bushy shape, ideal for desks or shelves.
- Soil: A well-draining potting mix, ideally with perlite or sand.
- Water: Water every 1-2 weeks, letting the soil dry out between waterings.
- Light: Prefers medium to bright indirect light, about 4-6 hours daily.
- Temperature: Thrives in 65-80°F.
- Humidity: Moderate to high; occasional misting is beneficial.

12. Orchid
Orchids are exotic beauties known for their elegant, colorful blooms, which can last for several months. Native to tropical regions, orchids come in various colors, making them a popular indoor plant. While orchids may need a bit more care, their beauty makes them well worth the effort.
- Soil: Use orchid-specific bark or a loose, fast-draining medium.
- Water: Water every 1-2 weeks by soaking the pot in water for about 10-15 minutes, then letting it drain fully.
- Light: Bright, indirect light; about 6 hours of gentle sunlight daily.
- Temperature: 65-75°F during the day, slightly cooler at night.
- Humidity: High humidity; mist daily or keep near a humidifier.

13. Haworthia Succulent
Haworthia is a small, rosette-shaped succulent with thick, dark green leaves that often have white stripes or spots, adding a striking visual texture. Originally from South Africa, these easy-care succulents are slow-growing and stay quite compact, making them perfect for small spaces. Unlike some other succulents, Haworthias are non-toxic, so they’re a safe choice if you have pets that like to explore or occasionally nibble.
- Soil: Use cactus or succulent soil for excellent drainage.
- Water: Water sparingly, about once every 2-3 weeks, allowing the soil to dry out completely in between.
- Light: Bright, indirect light for 4-6 hours daily.
- Temperature: 60-80°F is ideal.
- Humidity: Low; they do well in dry environments.
FAQ
Q: How can I keep my pets from nibbling on my plants?
A: Pet-safe plants are wonderful, but if you'd prefer they don’t snack on them, try placing citrus peels around the soil, as cats and dogs typically dislike the scent. You can also try giving your pets some designated "chewable" plants, like cat grass, which can keep their attention away from your houseplants.
Q: Are there any pet-safe plants that can withstand low-light conditions?
A: Yes! The Parlor Palm, Baby Rubber Plant, and several varieties of Calathea are all pet-safe and can thrive in low-light settings. These plants are perfect for areas of your home that don’t get much direct sunlight, such as a bedroom or office space.
Q: How do I ensure my soil is pet-safe too?
A: Some potting soils contain fertilizers or additives that can be harmful if ingested by pets. Look for organic or natural potting mixes without chemical fertilizers. You can also top the soil with pet-safe pebbles or moss to discourage digging while keeping things aesthetically pleasing.