Non-toxic plants for cats safe to eat are a must-have if you love indoor greenery and also care deeply for your feline friend’s health. Living with cats doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your love for indoor plants. In fact, with the right selection of non-toxic plants, you can create a lush, vibrant environment that both you and your feline companion can safely enjoy.
Cats naturally gravitate toward plants – whether it’s for play, exploration, or even consumption – making it essential for pet parents to be mindful of what greenery they bring into their homes.
Many cat owners have experienced that moment of panic when they catch their beloved pet nibbling on a houseplant, followed by a frantic Google search to determine if the plant is poisonous. This comprehensive guide aims to eliminate that worry by providing you with an extensive list of non-toxic plants for cats safe to eat and interact with.
From beautiful ornamentals to beneficial herbs, we’ll explore a variety of cat-safe plants, their unique characteristics, cultivation requirements, and the surprising benefits they might offer your feline friend. Whether you’re a seasoned plant enthusiast or just beginning your indoor gardening journey, this article will help you create an environment where your green thumb and your cat can coexist harmoniously.
Understanding Why Cats Eat Plants
Before diving into our list of cat-safe plants, it’s important to understand why cats are drawn to greenery in the first place. This behavior, which might seem strange for obligate carnivores, actually serves several important purposes in feline biology and behavior.
Natural Foraging Behavior
While domestic cats are primarily meat-eaters, their wild ancestors occasionally consumed plant material as part of their natural foraging behavior. This instinct remains in our household companions today. When given access to plants, many cats will explore them through sniffing, pawing, and sometimes nibbling – behaviors that are deeply rooted in their evolutionary history.
Research published in PMC indicates that plant eating is a common, normal behavior in cats that most likely reflects an instinctual behavior inherited from their wild ancestors. Interestingly, only about 9% of cat owners reported their cats appearing ill before consuming plants, suggesting that this behavior isn’t typically motivated by illness PMC National Library of Medicine.
Digestive Benefits and Hairball Management
One practical reason cats may consume plants is to aid their digestion. Plant fiber acts as a natural laxative, helping cats pass hairballs and indigestible material through their digestive system. Cat grass, in particular, contains fiber that can help stimulate digestion and potentially relieve constipation or discomfort from hairballs.
According to PetMD, cats may eat plants to induce vomiting when they feel discomfort from hairballs or other digestive issues. The natural gag reflex triggered by certain plant fibers can help them expel hairballs that might otherwise cause intestinal blockages.
Nutritional Supplementation
While cats get most of their essential nutrients from meat, plants can provide some beneficial micronutrients. Cat grass (typically wheat, oat, barley, or rye grass) contains folic acid, a B vitamin that supports oxygen distribution in the bloodstream and assists with cell growth.
“Cat grass is high in vitamins, with zero toxicity, and good for their digestive tract… which is more than you can say for your potentially toxic houseplants,” notes veterinarian Pete Wedderburn Pete the Vet.
Behavioral Enrichment and Stress Relief
Access to plants can also provide important behavioral enrichment for indoor cats. The sensory experience of investigating different textures, scents, and tastes offers mental stimulation that can help reduce boredom and stress in household cats.
For many indoor cats, plants represent a way to connect with nature and engage in natural behaviors that they might otherwise be denied. Creating a cat-friendly plant environment can therefore contribute significantly to your pet’s overall psychological well-being.
The Importance of Non-Toxic Plants for Cat Owners
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) maintains an extensive database of plants that are toxic or non-toxic to cats. According to their records, hundreds of common houseplants can potentially cause harm to felines, ranging from mild irritation to severe organ damage or even death.
Some of the most dangerous plants for cats include lilies (all parts are extremely toxic and can cause kidney failure), sago palms, azaleas, rhododendrons, and oleander. Even common houseplants like pothos, philodendrons, and peace lilies contain calcium oxalate crystals that can cause oral irritation, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing if ingested.
Given cats’ natural curiosity and tendency to explore their environment through taste and touch, cat owners must be vigilant about the plants they bring into their homes. The good news is that there are plenty of beautiful, easy-to-grow options that pose no threat to your feline friends. In the following sections, we’ll explore these safe alternatives in detail.
Cat-Safe Ornamental Plants
1. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Spider plants are among the most popular houseplants and for good reason. These resilient plants feature long, arching leaves with distinctive white stripes and produce small plantlets that hang from long stems, resembling spiders – hence their name.
Safety Profile: Spider plants are completely non-toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. In fact, many cats are attracted to spider plants and may occasionally nibble on their leaves without any harmful effects.
Care Requirements: Spider plants are incredibly forgiving and can thrive in a variety of conditions. They prefer bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light levels. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, and consider hanging them in a basket to create a cascading effect (though persistent cats may still find ways to reach them).
Benefits: Beyond their aesthetic appeal, spider plants are excellent air purifiers, helping to remove toxins like formaldehyde and xylene from your home. Their rapid growth and easy propagation also make them an economical choice for filling your space with greenery.
2. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
With their delicate, feathery fronds, Boston ferns add a touch of lush elegance to any space. These classic houseplants have been favorites since Victorian times for their ornamental value and relative ease of care.
Safety Profile: Boston ferns are non-toxic to cats according to the ASPCA plant database. Their soft fronds may attract playful cats, but occasional nibbling won’t cause harm.
Care Requirements: Boston ferns prefer humid environments with indirect light. They need consistently moist (but not soggy) soil and benefit from regular misting, especially in dry indoor environments. Consider placing them in a bathroom with a window or using a humidifier nearby.
Benefits: Boston ferns are excellent air purifiers, particularly effective at removing formaldehyde from indoor air. Their lush appearance adds a natural, calming element to home decor, and their arching fronds can provide cats with sensory enrichment through gentle touch.
3. African Violet (Saintpaulia spp.)
These compact, flowering plants add a pop of color to any indoor space with their velvety, deep green leaves and vibrant purple, pink, or white blooms. African violets are popular for their ability to flower year-round under the right conditions.
Safety Profile: African violets are completely non-toxic to cats according to the ASPCA, making them a safe choice for adding flowering beauty to cat-friendly homes.
Care Requirements: African violets thrive in bright, indirect light and prefer temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C). They should be watered when the top of the soil is dry, preferably from the bottom to avoid wetting the fuzzy leaves. They also benefit from high humidity.
Benefits: African violets add a splash of color to indoor spaces and can bloom throughout the year with proper care. Their compact size makes them suitable for small spaces, and they’re relatively low-maintenance once you understand their basic needs.
4. Calathea (Various species)
Often called “prayer plants” because their leaves fold up at night like hands in prayer, Calatheas are known for their stunning foliage patterns. Various species offer different leaf patterns and colors, from the pinstripe pattern of Calathea ornata to the round, decorated leaves of Calathea medallion.
Safety Profile: Calatheas are non-toxic to cats according to the ASPCA, making their beautiful foliage a safe addition to cat households.
Care Requirements: Calatheas prefer medium to bright indirect light, high humidity, and consistently moist (but not soggy) soil. They’re somewhat more demanding than some other houseplants on this list but reward your efforts with spectacular foliage.
Benefits: Calatheas are prized for their ornamental value and the visual interest their patterned leaves bring to indoor spaces. Their daily leaf movements (opening during day, closing at night) add a dynamic element to your plant collection.
5. Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens)
Also known as butterfly palm or golden cane palm, the areca palm brings a tropical feel to indoor spaces with its feathery fronds atop multiple reed-like stems. It’s a popular choice for adding height and texture to room corners.
Safety Profile: Areca palms are non-toxic to cats according to the ASPCA, making them a safe choice for adding dramatic height to cat-friendly interiors.
Care Requirements: Areca palms prefer bright, indirect light and consistently moist soil with good drainage. They benefit from occasional misting and are somewhat sensitive to city water (distilled or rainwater is preferable).
Benefits: Beyond their striking appearance, areca palms are effective air purifiers, removing toxins while adding moisture to indoor air. Their height and fullness make them excellent room dividers or corner accent pieces.
6. Haworthia (Haworthia spp.)
Often called zebra plants due to their distinctive white stripes, haworthias are small succulents that resemble miniature aloe plants. Their compact rosette form and interesting patterns make them popular for windowsills and small spaces.
Safety Profile: Unlike their similar-looking cousin aloe vera (which is toxic to cats), haworthias are completely safe for cats according to the ASPCA.
Care Requirements: Haworthias are drought-tolerant succulents that prefer bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. Allow the soil to dry completely between waterings, making them ideal for forgetful waterers.
Benefits: Haworthias offer the appealing aesthetic of succulents without the toxicity concerns of many other varieties. Their small size makes them perfect for tight spaces, and they’re extremely low-maintenance.
7. Orchids (Phalaenopsis spp.)
Elegant and sophisticated, phalaenopsis orchids (moth orchids) bring exotic beauty to indoor spaces with their long-lasting, arching sprays of blooms. Available in numerous colors, they add a touch of luxury to any setting.
Safety Profile: Orchids are non-toxic to cats according to the ASPCA, allowing you to safely enjoy their spectacular blooms in a cat household.
Care Requirements: Phalaenopsis orchids prefer bright, indirect light and high humidity. They should be planted in specialized orchid mix rather than soil and watered thoroughly once the medium has dried out. While their care is somewhat specialized, they’re actually among the easier orchids to maintain.
If your senior cat isn’t just nibbling on plants but also struggling with weight, check out our Top 10 Best Cat Foods for Senior Cats to Gain Weight to help them gain healthy weight.
Benefits: Orchids bloom for extended periods (sometimes months) and can rebloom annually with proper care. Their exotic appearance adds sophistication to any space, and their elevated growth habit may make them less tempting for cats to reach.
Cat-Safe (And Beneficial) Herbs
1. Cat Grass (Wheat, Oat, Barley, or Rye Grass)
Cat grass isn’t a specific species but rather a collection of grasses (typically wheat, oat, barley, or rye) grown specifically for cat consumption. Sold as seeds or pre-grown pots, cat grass provides a safe outlet for your cat’s plant-nibbling tendencies.
Safety Profile: Cat grass is specifically grown for feline consumption and is completely safe for cats to eat.
Care Requirements: Cat grass is easy to grow from seed in a shallow container with potting soil. Seeds germinate quickly (usually within a week) when kept moist and placed in a sunny location. Once established, keep the soil consistently moist and place in bright light.
Benefits: Cat grass contains folic acid, which supports your cat’s overall health, aiding in oxygen transportation in the bloodstream and cell growth. The fiber in cat grass may help with hairball management and digestive health. Additionally, having a designated “cat plant” may reduce your cat’s interest in your other houseplants.
2. Catnip (Nepeta cataria)
Famous for its effects on cats, catnip is a member of the mint family with aromatic leaves that contain nepetalactone, a compound that triggers a euphoric response in many felines.
Safety Profile: Catnip is completely safe for cats, even when ingested. While it can cause temporary behavioral changes (increased playfulness, relaxation, or excitement), these effects are harmless and temporary.
Care Requirements: Catnip prefers full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. It can be grown indoors in a sunny window or outdoors. Allow soil to dry between waterings and trim regularly to encourage bushier growth.
Benefits: Beyond the recreational effects, catnip can encourage exercise through increased play behavior in some cats. It may also have mild sedative effects when eaten rather than sniffed, potentially helping anxious cats relax. Approximately 70-80% of cats respond to catnip due to a genetic trait.
3. Valerian (Valeriana officinalis)
While valerian root is known as a sleep aid for humans, it often has the opposite effect on cats, acting as a stimulant. Its scent can trigger reactions similar to catnip in some felines.
Safety Profile: Valerian is non-toxic to cats and is sometimes used as an alternative for cats who don’t respond to catnip. It’s worth noting that while the plant is safe, concentrated essential oils should be avoided.
Care Requirements: Valerian plants prefer full sun to partial shade and rich, moist soil with good drainage. They can grow quite tall (up to 5 feet) and produce clusters of small white or pink flowers in summer.
Benefits: Valerian can provide behavioral enrichment for cats who don’t respond to catnip (about 20-30% of the feline population). Some cat owners report that it can help reduce stress and anxiety in certain cats when offered in small amounts.
“Valerian Root is not only safe for your cat but it can actually be beneficial! It aids in relieving stress and anxiety and helps to promote play and exercise for house cats who prefer to lay around all day,” according to Meowy Janes .
4. Cat Thyme (Teucrium marum)
Despite its name, cat thyme isn’t actually related to culinary thyme but is a small perennial shrub in the germander family. Its grayish-green leaves emit a strong scent when crushed that attracts many cats.
Safety Profile: Cat thyme is non-toxic to cats and provides a safe alternative for those who don’t respond to catnip.
Care Requirements: Cat thyme prefers full sun and well-draining soil. It’s drought-tolerant once established and benefits from occasional pruning to maintain its shape. It can be grown indoors in a very sunny window or outdoors.
Benefits: Cat thyme can provide enrichment and stimulation for cats, especially those who don’t respond to catnip. The plant produces a calming effect in many cats, potentially helping with stress reduction.
5. Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus)
With its tall, arching leaves and distinctive citrus fragrance, lemongrass adds tropical flair to indoor or outdoor gardens. Often used in cooking, this grass is also attractive to many cats.
Safety Profile: Lemongrass is non-toxic to cats according to the ASPCA, making it a safe option for feline households.
Care Requirements: Lemongrass prefers full sun and consistent moisture. It can be grown indoors in a bright window or outdoors in warm climates. Regular harvesting (cutting back) encourages new growth.
Benefits: The scent of lemongrass is appealing to many cats, and the plant’s grassy texture provides a safe chewing option. Additionally, lemongrass has natural insect-repellent properties that may help keep pests at bay.
Cat-Safe Succulents: Non-Toxic Plants for Cats Safe to Eat
1. Echeveria (Echeveria spp.)
These rosette-forming succulents come in a rainbow of colors, from pale blue-green to pink-tinged varieties. Their geometric form and low-maintenance nature make them popular choices for windowsills and small containers.
Safety Profile: Echeverias are non-toxic to cats according to the ASPCA, making them safe options for adding trendy succulent style to cat-friendly homes.
Care Requirements: Echeverias need bright light (including some direct sun) and well-draining soil. Allow the soil to dry completely between waterings, and avoid getting water on the leaves, which can cause rot.
Benefits: These drought-tolerant plants are perfect for busy or forgetful plant caretakers. Their compact growth habit and variety of colors add visual interest to any space without posing risks to curious cats.
2. Hens and Chicks (Sempervivum spp.)
Named for their growth pattern where smaller rosettes (chicks) form around the main plant (hen), these hardy succulents offer interesting texture and color variations, including green, purple, and red tones.
Safety Profile: Sempervivums are non-toxic to cats according to the ASPCA database.
Care Requirements: Extremely drought-tolerant, hens and chicks prefer bright light, including direct sun, and very well-draining soil. They can even survive in rock gardens with minimal soil. Water only when the soil is completely dry.
Benefits: These nearly indestructible plants are perfect for beginners or those seeking low-maintenance options. Their unique growth pattern creates natural interest as they spread and multiply over time.
3. Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera spp.)
Despite the name, these plants aren’t true cacti but succulents native to Brazilian rainforests. They produce spectacular blooms in winter, typically around the holiday season, in colors ranging from white to pink, red, and purple.
Safety Profile: Christmas cacti are non-toxic to cats according to the ASPCA, making them a safe choice for seasonal color.
Care Requirements: Unlike desert cacti, Christmas cacti prefer more frequent watering and higher humidity. They thrive in bright, indirect light and well-draining soil that’s allowed to dry slightly between waterings.
Benefits: These long-lived plants can survive for decades with proper care and provide spectacular seasonal blooms during winter months when other plants may be dormant. Their trailing growth habit makes them ideal for hanging baskets or elevated shelves.
Creating a Cat-Friendly Plant Environment
Strategic Placement for Coexistence
While the plants listed above are non-toxic, some cats may still cause damage through digging, chewing, or playing. Consider these placement strategies for harmonious plant-cat coexistence:
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Elevated Locations: Place plants on high shelves, hanging baskets, or wall-mounted planters to keep them out of easy reach.
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Designated Cat Plants: Provide cat-specific plants (like cat grass or catnip) in easily accessible locations to divert attention from your ornamental plants.
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Protected Areas: Use decorative barriers like river rocks on soil surfaces to discourage digging, or create a terrarium for particularly tempting plants.
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Rotation System: If your cat shows intense interest in a particular plant, consider temporarily moving it to an inaccessible room until the novelty wears off.
Creating a safe environment means more than just non-toxic plants. Choosing the best litter for cats with asthma can also reduce respiratory issues in sensitive felines.
Growing Your Own Cat Grass Garden
Creating a dedicated cat grass garden is an excellent way to provide your feline with safe plant matter to nibble while potentially protecting your other houseplants. Here’s how to create a successful indoor cat grass garden:
1. Choose a Container: Select a shallow, wide container with drainage holes. Cat-specific grass planters are available, but any pot will work.
2. Select Seeds: Purchase cat grass seeds (typically wheat, oat, barley, or rye) from pet stores or garden centers. Organic seeds are preferable to avoid pesticides.
3. Planting Process:
- Fill the container with potting soil, leaving about half an inch from the top.
- Spread seeds evenly across the surface.
- Cover with a thin layer (¼ inch) of soil.
- Water thoroughly until moist but not soggy.
- Cover with plastic wrap to create greenhouse conditions until germination.
4. Care and Maintenance:
- Place in a bright location (but not direct, harsh sun).
- Keep soil consistently moist during germination.
- Once sprouted (usually within 3-7 days), remove the plastic cover.
- Continue to water when the top of the soil feels dry.
- Trim as needed to maintain freshness.
- Start new batches every 2-3 weeks, as cat grass has a limited lifespan.
“For indoor growing, keep your soil moist. Cat grass will need plenty of sunlight while it’s growing,” advises MasterClass .
Signs Your Cat May Have Ingested a Toxic Plant
Even with careful planning, accidents can happen. Know these warning signs that your cat may have consumed a toxic plant:
- Drooling or pawing at the mouth
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing
- Lethargy or unusual behavior
- Loss of appetite
- Increased or decreased urination
If you suspect your cat has eaten a toxic plant, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (1-888-426-4435) immediately. Quick action can be crucial in poisoning cases.
And if your cat loves going outside, don’t miss our guide on how to train a cat to walk on a leash safely.
Common Questions About Cats and Plants
Are Succulents Generally Safe for Cats?
While many succulents are safe for cats, some popular varieties like aloe vera, jade plant (Crassula ovata), and euphorbia species (including crown of thorns) are toxic. Always check specific species against the ASPCA database before bringing them home.
Safe succulent options include haworthia, echeveria, Christmas cactus, and hens and chicks (sempervivum), which offer the trendy succulent aesthetic without toxicity concerns.
Why Does My Cat Only Chew Certain Plants?
Cats may show preferences for plants based on texture, taste, or scent. Grass-like plants with thin, blade-like leaves often appeal to cats due to their similarity to the grasses wild cats would naturally consume. Plants with movement (like spider plant babies that dangle) might trigger hunting instincts.
Some cats are also attracted to plants with strong scents, particularly those in the mint family (like catnip). Individual preferences vary widely among cats, just as they do with humans.
Will Growing Cat Grass Stop My Cat From Eating Other Plants?
While providing cat grass doesn’t guarantee your cat will leave other plants alone, it often helps redirect the behavior. Many cat owners report success in reducing damage to houseplants by offering dedicated cat grass as an alternative.
For best results, place cat grass in easily accessible locations throughout your home, especially near windows where your cat likes to perch, and consistently redirect your cat to the grass when you notice them showing interest in other plants.
How Often Should I Replace Cat Grass?
Cat grass typically lasts about 2-3 weeks before it begins to yellow or wilt. For continuous access, consider a rotation system where you start new seeds every 1-2 weeks. This ensures fresh growth is always available as older plants decline.
“Cat grass that is grown exclusively indoors may only last for one week due to weak sunlight. Our pots last up to three weeks in the catio with good circulation and sunlight,” notes Chirpy Cats.
Can Indoor Cats Get Enough Plant Material Naturally?
Indoor cats don’t have access to the grasses and plants that outdoor cats might occasionally nibble, so providing safe options becomes the responsibility of caring pet parents. Without access to appropriate plant material, some indoor cats may turn to houseplants (potentially toxic ones) or even non-plant items like paper or fabric.
Offering cat grass and other safe plants helps satisfy this natural behavior in a controlled, safe manner while providing enrichment and potential health benefits.
If you prefer natural solutions, check out our guide on natural remedies for dog ear infection without a vet to safely help your pup at home.
Conclusion: Creating a Safe, Green Haven for You and Your Cat
Creating a pet-friendly indoor garden doesn’t require sacrificing your love for plants or your cat’s natural curiosity. By selecting non-toxic varieties and employing thoughtful placement strategies, you can enjoy the aesthetic and air-purifying benefits of houseplants while keeping your feline companion safe.
From ornamental beauties like spider plants and African violets to beneficial herbs like cat grass and catnip, there are plenty of options to create a lush, cat-friendly environment. Remember that even with non-toxic plants, moderation is key – excessive consumption of any plant material could cause mild digestive upset in sensitive cats.
By understanding your cat’s natural behaviors and providing appropriate outlets for them, you can create an enriching indoor environment that satisfies both your green thumb and your cat’s instinctual needs. The bond between cats and their human companions only grows stronger when we create spaces that respect and accommodate their natural behaviors while keeping their safety as our top priority.
FAQs
What healthy plants are safe for cats?
Healthy plants that are completely safe for cats include cat grass, spider plants, Boston ferns, African violets, areca palms, Christmas cactus, orchids, calatheas, and many varieties of herbs like basil and thyme. Always verify a plant’s safety through the ASPCA’s toxic plant database before bringing it into a home with cats.
What plant is beneficial to a cat’s digestive system?
Cat grass, grown from wheat, oat, barley, or rye seeds, is particularly beneficial for cats’ digestive systems. It contains folic acid and fiber that can help with hairball management and proper digestion. The natural fiber in cat grass can help move hair and other indigestible materials through a cat’s digestive tract more efficiently.
What houseplants are good for cats to eat?
Houseplants specifically grown for cat consumption include cat grass, catnip, cat thyme, and valerian. While many non-toxic plants like spider plants won’t harm cats if nibbled, plants specifically grown for cats offer the most benefits. Cat grass is particularly nutritious and easy to grow indoors specifically for feline consumption.
Do cats know to avoid toxic plants?
Cats do not have an innate ability to identify toxic plants. While they may exhibit cautious behavior around unfamiliar substances, they cannot consistently distinguish between safe and dangerous plants. Pet owners should never rely on a cat’s instincts to keep them safe from toxic plants – instead, it’s the owner’s responsibility to ensure only non-toxic plants are accessible to curious felines.
How do I keep my cat from eating my houseplants?
To discourage cats from eating houseplants: provide alternatives like cat grass; use deterrents such as citrus peels or diluted citrus essential oils near plants (cats dislike these scents); place plants in inaccessible locations or hanging baskets; cover soil with river rocks to prevent digging; use bitter apple spray (pet-safe) on plant leaves; and ensure cats have plenty of enrichment to reduce boredom-based plant chewing.
