Houseplants can bring life to any room, but if you share your home with cats or dogs, it’s important to choose wisely. Many popular plants like pothos, philodendron, and peace lilies are toxic to pets and can cause serious health issues if ingested.
The good news? You don’t have to give up your plant goals to keep your pets safe. There are plenty of beautiful, pet-safe indoor plants that thrive inside homes and pose no danger to curious paws.
We’ve rounded up eight non-toxic houseplants that are safe for both cats and dogs and available right here at Graf Growers.
Have questions about pet safe plants? Call us at (330) 836-2727 or stop by our shop in Akron to explore our pet-friendly selections.
Why Pet Safety Matters for Plant Lovers
When it comes to decorating with houseplants, pet safety isn’t always top of mind, but it should be. Many pet parents are surprised to learn that some of the most common indoor plants can cause serious health issues for cats and dogs.
Common Risks of Toxic Houseplants
Even a small bite of the wrong plant can trigger a big reaction. Cats and dogs may experience drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, or even more severe symptoms like tremors or difficulty breathing. Some plants are more dangerous than others, but it’s always better to err on the side of caution.
Trusted Sources for Pet Safety Info
Before bringing any new plant into your home, it’s worth double-checking its safety, especially if you have pets that like to explore. The ASPCA’s Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants list is a reliable, vet-backed resource that catalogs hundreds of common houseplants along with their known effects on cats and dogs.
You can also ask your veterinarian if you’re unsure about a particular plant or symptom. If your pet chews on something questionable, they can help assess the risk and guide next steps. These expert-backed resources make it easier to avoid unsafe choices and create a pet-friendly indoor space you can trust.
Graf’s Commitment to Safe Plant Pairings
At Graf Growers, we help you enjoy your plants without the worry. Our team is here to guide you toward non-toxic plants for pets, answer your questions, and recommend cat safe houseplants that match your home, lifestyle, and lighting.
Bringing plants and pets together safely isn’t just possible and it’s easier than ever with the right knowledge and local support.
8 Pet-Safe Houseplants to Grow with Confidence
You don’t have to choose between a beautiful indoor plant collection and your pets’ safety. With a little care and guidance, you can fill your home with greenery that’s safe, easy to care for, and full of personality.
How to Use This List
Every plant listed here is non-toxic to cats and dogs, based on credible sources like the ASPCA. While they’re all pet-friendly, they still vary in care needs as some prefer bright light while others thrive in shade. Take note of how much sunlight your space gets, how often you want to water, and where your pets tend to roam.
Plant Profiles: Pet-Safe Options Available at Graf Growers
All of these plants are available at Graf Growers, depending on stock. Our team can help you choose the right fit for your space, light conditions, and pet behavior.
[1] Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Low-maintenance and adaptable, spider plants thrive in indirect light and work well in hanging planters which is great for homes with playful pets.
[2] Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
This pet-safe classic adds lush texture to any room. It prefers humidity, indirect light, and consistent moisture.
[3] Calathea (Calathea spp.)
A striking plant with bold patterns that’s safe for pets and well suited for moderate to low light areas.
[4] Peperomia (Peperomia spp.)
Compact and easygoing, peperomias come in a range of colors and shapes. They do well in moderate light and need only occasional watering.
[5] Prayer Plant (Maranta leuconeura)
Known for its colorful leaves and unique nighttime movement, this pet-conscious option prefers medium light and evenly moist soil.
[6] Baby Rubber Plant (Peperomia obtusifolia)
This glossy, compact plant is non-toxic and thrives in low to medium light. It needs minimal watering which is ideal for beginners.
[7] Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans)
A slow-growing favorite for low-light corners. Its soft fronds are safe for pets and easy to care for.
These eight houseplants offer both peace of mind and plenty of visual appeal. If you’re building a pet-friendly collection, knowing which plants to skip is just as important as knowing which ones are safe.
Toxic Houseplants to Avoid if You Have Pets
Even experienced plant lovers can be surprised to learn that many common houseplants are toxic to cats and dogs. If you live with curious pets, it’s worth taking a closer look at what’s safe and what’s not.
Why Some Plants Just Aren’t Worth the Risk
A plant may look beautiful, but that doesn’t mean it’s safe for your furry companions. Some popular varieties contain compounds that can cause drooling, vomiting, difficulty breathing, or worse. That’s why it’s so important to double-check plant safety before buying or gifting. When in doubt, always consult a reliable source or ask a knowledgeable team member at your local garden center.
Common Toxic Houseplants to Watch Out For
These popular picks may look harmless, but each comes with risks for pets:
Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
A common starter plant, but highly toxic if chewed. It can cause oral irritation, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.
Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum spp.)
Often admired for its white blooms, this plant can trigger vomiting, drooling, and oral pain in pets.
Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)
Low maintenance and visually striking, but not safe for your furry friends. Ingestion can lead to nausea and gastrointestinal upset.
Philodendron (Philodendron spp.)
With many popular varieties, all parts of this plant are toxic and may cause swelling, burning, and digestive issues.
ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
A hardy, trendy choice but irritating if chewed. It may cause vomiting and other signs of distress in pets.
How Graf Growers Helps You Stay Informed
Plant shopping shouldn’t feel risky. At Graf Growers, we’re here to answer your questions and help you choose wisely. If you’re unsure about a plant’s safety, just ask. We’re happy to recommend pet-conscious indoor plants that match the look you want without the worry.
Why Shop Pet-Safe Plants at Graf Growers
Finding the right houseplants doesn’t have to be a guessing game, especially when you shop locally with a team that understands both plants and pets. At Graf Growers, we make it easier to grow with confidence.
Expert Help You Can Count On
Our staff knows which plants are truly houseplants safe for pets and how to match them with your lighting, care habits, and home environment. Whether you’re brand new to plant care or just need reassurance, we’re here to guide you. No question is too small, our goal is to help you bring home plants that work for your space and your lifestyle.
A Curated Selection You Can Trust
Many of the pet-safe indoor plants featured in this guide are available in-store, depending on seasonal stock. Looking for something specific? We’re happy to suggest additional non-toxic options or help you order a specialty variety. You don’t have to compromise style for safety, our team will help you find the best of both.
Tips for Living with Plants and Pets
Even with dog safe indoor plants, smart placement matters. Try displaying plants out of reach on shelves or in hanging baskets to reduce temptation. Keep an eye on curious pets, and avoid keeping toxic varieties in shared areas. Some cats and dogs grow out of chewing behaviors, but prevention is still the safest approach.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pet-Safe Houseplants
Choosing the right plants for a pet-friendly home can bring up a few questions, especially if you’re just getting started. Here are some common concerns we hear from customers at Graf Growers.
Are All Ferns Safe for Pets?
Answer: Not all ferns are created equal when it comes to pet safety. True ferns like the Boston Fern are non-toxic to cats and dogs, but others, such as Asparagus Fern, can be harmful. Always check the specific variety before bringing it home.
What Should I Do If My Cat Eats a Houseplant?
Answer: If your cat chews on a plant and you’re unsure whether it’s safe, remove any remaining plant material and contact your veterinarian. Bring the plant’s name or a photo with you because this helps determine any potential risks and next steps.
Can I Still Keep Houseplants If My Dog Is a Chewer?
Answer: Yes, but you’ll want to be extra mindful. Choose pet-safe indoor plants, place them out of reach, and monitor behavior. Hanging baskets, high shelves, or plant stands can help reduce temptation while keeping your greenery on display.
Which Popular Houseplants Are Most Dangerous for Pets?
Answer: Some of the most common but toxic houseplants include Pothos, Philodendron, Peace Lily, ZZ Plant, and Snake Plant. These can cause symptoms ranging from mild irritation to serious illness if ingested.
How Can I Tell If a Plant Is Safe for My Pet?
Answer: Use trusted resources like the ASPCA’s Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant list, or consult your veterinarian. When shopping in person, ask knowledgeable staff, like the team at Graf Growers, for guidance.
Are Pet-Friendly Plants Always Low Maintenance?
Answer: Not necessarily. While many houseplants safe for pets are also easy to care for, like Spider Plants and Parlor Palms, others may have more specific humidity or lighting needs. The key is matching the plant to your space and care style.
Does Graf Growers Carry a Full Range of Non-Toxic Plants?
Answer: Yes, many popular dog safe indoor plants and cat safe houseplants are available in-store, depending on seasonal stock. The team at Graf Growers can also suggest alternatives or order special varieties if you’re looking for something specific.
Keep Your Pets Safe — Visit Graf Growers for Non-Toxic Plants Today
When you love both plants and pets, you shouldn’t have to choose between them. At Graf Growers in Akron, we make it simple to bring home greenery that’s safe, stylish, and suited to your space.
Our team is here to help you pick the right pet-safe houseplants, offer care tips, and answer any questions, whether you’re a first-time plant parent or a long-time collector adjusting to life with a new furry friend. We carry a wide selection of non-toxic plants, and we’re happy to help you explore safe alternatives to your favorites.
Call us at (330) 836-2727 or stop by today to ask about availability, get expert guidance, and shop fresh local plants you and your pets will love.