Botanical curiosity doesn't kill the cat, if the cat is surrounded by safe plants! But it's hard to remember which plants are non-toxic. Our top 20 favorite cat-safe plants include a few that can actually help your kitty.
Guess how many plants are toxic for cats:
The ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) lists 422 plants that are toxic to cats. (If you don’t have an exhaustive list memorized, you're off the hook.)
It’s probably not surprising that poison parsnip and deadly nightshade are off the list, but did you know that jade plants, ZZ plants, and snake plants are toxic to cats?
Or that spider plants are a safe hallucinogen for cats?
Or that cat grass can distract your cat from your favorite plants?
Plants that make your cat happy and healthy
Spider plant
The spider plant is not only nontoxic for cats, it's also a mild hallucinogen that your fluffball may enjoy. If your feline nibbles on your spider plant and enjoys the resulting trip, she may become obsessed with your spider plant.
That can actually be a blessing—sometimes, cats like their spider plants so much that they’ll ignore your other plants. Consider it a sacrifice to the cat goddess.
It’s still mildly possible that snacking on your spider plant could cause upset stomach, diarrhea, or vomiting. But it's not going to kill your cat. And many cats aren't affected.
Cat grass
Cat grass is a blend of young plants, usually barley, rye, wheat, oat, and/or alfalfa. These grains are all safe for cats. And nibbling on grass is normal cat behavior.
It’s kind of funny because cat stomachs don’t have the enzymes to digest grasses of any sort. But, oddly enough, cat grass can still help the cat’s digestive system—in two ways.
- The cat barfs up the cat grass. You might think this means it was toxic for your cat, but nope! It’s a feature, not a bug. This vomiting gets rid of anything else your cat can’t digest, like fur, bones, feathers, or—speaking of bugs—parasites.
- Your cat poops out all that indigestible stuff, because cat grass is also a laxative.
Plus, it’s just fun for your cat to nibble grass. Don’t overlook mental stimulation and entertainment. Cats are curious, playful creatures.
Catnip
Catnip contains nepetalactone, a chemical that alters your cat’s mental state. It causes euphoria (extreme happiness) and ultra-active playfulness. And after your little cat goes a little crazy, she’ll probably crash and snooze.
Cats don’t even need to eat it—just smelling catnip can make your cat high as a kite. But it’s not going to hurt your kitten, even if she does eat it. Quite the contrary. It provides significant mental stimulation and physical activity, both of which are healthy, with no bad side effects. (Sadly, there’s no peoplenip.)
Tall plants and trees that are safe for cats
To go really tall—like 7 to 10 feet tall—you need a palm. Palms are tropical wonders that are pretty hardy and totally cat friendly. Pick a palm, and it will be at home in your home.
Cat palm
In a beautiful moment of kismet, cat palms are not only safe for cats but seem to have been named with your furry friend in mind. Standing tall and proud, this plant can grow up to 10 feet tall and 10 feet wide—basically a leafy skyscraper for your living room.
Like your feline overlord, this palm loves basking in a sunbeam, though she’s chill with bright indirect light too. Water when the first 2-3 inches of the soil get dry.
Your cat will be so pleased that you bought something named in her honor. She might even permit 4.7 seconds of snuggles.
Chinese fan palm
If you have a dramatic cat who deserves a dramatic plant to play with, get a Chinese fan palm. Her massive fronds demand attention, and she’s ready to steal the show (or at least fight your cat for it).
The Chinese fan palm enjoys moderate to high humidity, slightly moist soil, warm temperatures, and indirect bright light. She's just aching to add some pizzazz to your home life, in case it's too boring or quiet. Give her humidity and warm temps, and she'll be your biggest fan (we had to go there).
Areca palm
Meet Areca, who grows up to 8 feet tall indoors. She doesn't play basketball, but she is an air purification champion. She’s a thicc girl because her leaves grow densely—she can even serve as a privacy screen when your cat wants some alone time.
Areca is the cool friend who’s always up for anything: full sun, dappled shade, or something in between. She won’t chase mice, but she’ll happily watch your cat chase a laser pointer. You really can't go wrong with this plant as long as you give her a nice long drink of water when the soil dries out.
Adonidia palm
Adonidia is here to party, folks! He’s got festive vibes year-round, but come December, he goes all out—blossoming white flowers and showing off cheerful red berries. He’s the life of the holiday season. It’s no wonder they call him the Christmas Palm, a title he’s super proud of. (Maybe you won't need to put a Santa hat on your cat this year.)
Mr. Christmas likes full sun, and he wants to be watered when the top 3 or 4 inches of soil are dry. He also likes humidity, so if you live in a humid area or have a gigantic bathroom, he'll be delighted.
Kentia palm
Kentia is here to be a tall queen in your home. Growing up to 10 feet, no problem, she’s elegant and graceful—but still a total scene-stealer.
Fun fact: in the Victorian era, having a Kentia palm in your home was a status symbol, popular in parlors and ballrooms.
If you don't have a ballroom, that's ok, just host a few personal dance parties with your cat, your hairbrush, and some loud music. Kentia can handle a lot of lighting conditions, and she'll be happy if you water her every three-ish weeks.
Bamboo palm
There are a lot of palms on this list because palms are majestic, tall, beautiful, and totally pet friendly. The bamboo palm is perhaps the most classic palm of all. Its lush, feathery fronds lend a tropical aura.
Unlike other palms, bamboo palm can tolerate lower lighting, all the way down to low indirect lighting (which is only one step above total shade). If you have a shady corner, but you still want to make a big statement, this is your palm. But there's a catch—he’s a little fussy about watering.
Low-light plants that are safe for cats
If your cat is a curious nibbler but also a dedicated sunbather, get a low-light plant. Your cat will have to leave her sunbeam to munch on your plant (but if she does, she’ll be totally safe).
Cast Iron Plant
Cast iron plants survive ANYTHING. Zombie apocalypse? He's chillin'. Cat attack? Bring it on! Cast iron just won't die, even if it becomes your cat’s sworn enemy.
Casty thrives in very low light. In fact, his nickname is “the bar room plant,” because it can survive in dingy or moody environments. You don't even have to water him very often—wait for his soil to dry out completely. He's the ultimate low-maintenance bestie for your cat.
Money Tree
Meet Mr. Money - part financial advisor, part plant, total charmer. He’ll bring you good fortune—possibly a literal fortune—as he’s known to attract good luck financially. And that comes in handy because your cat needs a new cat tower and twelve mouse-shaped chew toys, please.
There's also a legend that Mr. Money helps you sleep better, feel less stressed out, and even fight with your family less. We can neither confirm nor deny that we filled our home with money plants, to test the family theory. But air purification can indeed improve sleep, and being around plants makes people (and cats?) happier. It’s science.
Mr. Money likes moderately damp soil because he’s native to swamps, so his roots are less sensitive to root rot. Over-waterers, this is your plant soulmate.
Bird’s Nest Fern
Ferns are generally happy in low light because they grow on forest floors. And you'll be generally happy once you have this Bird's Nest Fern, bringing the same vibe as crimped hair from the 90s (fun, playful, extravagant).
In the wild, the Bird's Nest Fern grows next to, or even on, palm trees. So if we convinced you to buy a palm in the first section, this would be a great buddy for your new tree. Then your cat can pretend to be a rainforest explorer.
Also, Fern is a good name for a cat.
Peacock plant
Mr. Peacock is fancy and luxurious, partly because of his cool chevron pattern, but also because of the riot of color he brings to your home. The top of his leaves alternate lime and forest green, and the underside of the leaves sport rich shades of purple and maroon. He’s serving looks and he KNOWS it.
Let his soil dry out completely—and make sure he’s in a well-draining pot. Mr. Peacock has sensitive feet. If you can’t give him a pedicure, the least you can do is prevent root rot. He luxuriates in filtered light and prefers warmer temperatures.
Hanging plants that are safe for cats
Hanging plants have built-in cat protection: Cats can’t fly. (Yet! Stay tuned, they’re always up to something.)
Boston Fern
Boston Fern is not only beautiful, it’s also good at sopping up humidity. If you live in a humid environment and worry about mold and sweating and such, get yourself some ferns. Your house will be prettier and dryer, and your cat will be safe.
Chinese Money Plant
The Chinese Money Plant has unusually round leaves, with a little lighter dot in the center. It’s said to bring good luck, and it definitely brings good looks! It can thrive in low light to bright indirect light.
Fishbone Cactus
Aka the zig-zag cactus, this succulent has long leaves with ribbed edges. If your cat wants to look like an old-timey cartoon of a cat licking a full fish skeleton, this is its chance to do so without getting anything stuck in his throat.
Variegated Hoya Heart (Kerrii)
This Hoya’s beautiful leaves live up to the plant’s name—they’re literally shaped like hearts. If you love your cat, get a Hoya. Its green and yellow variegations keep things playful, perfect for a lively kitten. It grows like a vine—perfect for a hanging plant.
Hoya Hindu Rope
Hindu Rope is an unusual-looking plant that makes a statement and smells great. Its bunched-up leaves lead to its nickname, the “Krinkle Kurl.” It looks extravagant flowing out of a basket.
Pitcher Plant
Also known as the Monkey Cup, this plant grows little “pitchers” or cups that trap insects. If you have a fly problem and your cat won’t cooperate by catching and eating them, then you need a Pitcher Plant. Worst case scenario, your cat tries to take a sip and ends up with a face full of bugs. Free protein!
String Of Hearts
These beauties look delicate and romantic trailing from a hanging planter. It grows fast, lives long, and dies rarely. It will even bloom pretty little flowers if you put it in dappled sunlight. Your cat might even get jealous (she seriously has like zero blossoms).
Watermelon Pilea
These leaves literally look like watermelon, so if you’re hungry, watch out. Thankfully, cats are carnivores, so your fluffy companion won’t care. They’re related to the Chinese Money Plant, but their leaves are pointed and variegated.
Plants that are toxic and dangerous to cats
At least 422 plants are unsafe for cats. Here are some of the most common houseplants that can hurt your furry feline:
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African Violet
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Alocasia
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Aloe
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Amaryllis
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Begonia
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Bird of paradise
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Boston Fern
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Caladium
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Calamondin orange
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Chinese evergreen
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Christmas rose
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Corn Plant
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Dracaena
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Dragon tree
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Dieffenbachia
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Geranium
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Golden pothos
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Jade Plant
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Kalanchoe
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Lavender
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Lilies
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Monstera deliciosa
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Many philodendrons
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Pencil cactus
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Poinsettia
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Snake plant
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Schefflera (umbrella tree)
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ZZ plants
If you currently own one of these plants, consider giving it to me. Or a friend. Or just moving it outside.
A super important note: Fertilizer can be toxic, too. If you put toxic fertilizer on a safe plant, your cat could still get in trouble. Look for a non-toxic fertilizer, especially if your cat likes to lick the dirt.
Symptoms of plant poisoning in cats
The most common health effects of eating a cat-toxic plant include:
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Vomiting
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Diarrhea
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Drooling
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Foaming at the mouth
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Twitching
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Rashes
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Seizures
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Difficulty breathing
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Collapsing
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Shock
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Coma
What should I do if my cat eats a toxic plant?
If you suspect plant poisoning, call your vet, take your cat to an emergency vet hospital, or call the Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661. The helpline does charge a fee, but if it keeps your cat alive? Worth it.
Or save time by owning only plants that are non-toxic for cats.
How to keep your cat from eating your plants (or knocking them over)
To minimize cat-plant contact, choose a low-light plant or hanging plant. Or buy a mini indoor greenhouse. Or keep the plant up high. Or put your plants on a crowded table, so there’s no room for your cat to perch.
Buy cat grass
Cats love cat grass so much, they might focus on it and ignore your other plants completely! Fingers crossed.
Pick a low-light plant
If your cat is dedicated to bathing in the sun, then get a low-light plant that you can put far away from her favorite spot.
Use mini indoor greenhouses or a glass cabinet
These small, portable greenhouses can be exquisitely beautiful, really complimenting your lovely plants. Try Etsy for beauty or if you want a cheap one, try Ikea. A glass cabinet gives you even more room for even more plants.
Keep your plants up high
This one is a bit dubious because a lot of cats like to jump, climb, and explore high areas. But if your cat is calm, older, or just uninterested, this can work.
Buy hanging plants
If your plant hangs from the ceiling—and isn’t near another surface—how will your cat reach it? (I know, I know—she’ll find a way. But worth a shot?)
Put your plants on a crowded table
Again, if there’s nowhere for your cat to sit comfortably while gnawing on your Calathea, it’ll seem less fun.
Train your cat
Just kidding.
Where can I buy cat-safe plants?
Here at Pafe Plants, we have an entire category of pet-friendly plants. No need to research each plant if you buy from this collection—you can know it’s safe.
For shipping your precious plants, you have two options: Regular shipping, or freight shipping. Freight means your plant travels in luxury, on its own pallet, free from jostling or smushing. Pallets are handled upright with forklifts—no tilting, dragging, or rough treatment. Just a safe, undamaged plant arriving at your doorstep (at a scheduled time!).
Pafe Plants makes it easy to buy cat-safe plants
We love our pets, and we want to keep all pets safe and happy. We also know your pets keep you busy, so we’ll make it simple.
We have a large collection of pet-safe plants
Don’t want to do any more research? Or if you already forgot everything you just read, no problem. Go to the collection linked below and not one of these featured plants would hurt Mr. Mittens.
Big plants that are actually big
Not to throw any shade (other than from our tall indoor trees), but most online plant shops label a 5-6’ plant “extra large.” That’s only our fourth largest size. Our plants go up to 10 feet tall! If you want to make a statement or give your kitten a jungle, you’re in the right place.
Shop for big plants over video–and pick your exact plant
Seriously, we’ll take you on a live tour of the greenhouse. Stop us and say, “That one!” And we will literally send you that specific plant.
Not just any random Adonidia Palm that was convenient to grab. If you think the one third from the left is prettiest, then you get the prettiest palm.
FAQ
What is the safest plant for cats?
Cat grass is your queen in the non-toxic plants kingdom! Not only is it completely safe, but this pet-friendly superstar helps eliminate hairballs and other indigestibles. Spider plants, catnip, and majestic palms are equally cat-safe houseplants for your jungle.
What plants are not good for cats?
Over 422 plants are toxic party-crashers for cats, including common houseplants like ZZ plants, snake plants, jade plants, and lilies. Even fertilizer can be dangerous! Skip monsteras, philodendrons, and aloe if you want your cat-friendly home to stay that way.
What plants are calming to cats?
Catnip is exercise + meditation in plant form! After the initial zoomies wear off, your cat will crash into total relaxation mode. So your cat gets physical and mental stimulation with zero harmful side effects, and then a nice spa day.
What is the most toxic plant to cats?
Lilies are the supervillains of houseplants for cats – they can cause kidney failure! Other dangerous troublemakers include dieffenbachia, pothos, and philodendrons. If your curious cat takes a nibble, symptoms range from drooling to seizures. Not exactly pet-friendly plants, right?
Do cats like having plants around? Do they make cats happy?
Cats are basically tiny plant critics – they love having greenery to inspect (or attack)! And some have additional benefits for your fluffball. Spider plants and catnip provide endless entertainment. Money trees are said to reduce stress, creating a chill environment.
What flowers aren't toxic to cats?
Looking for blooms that won't doom your kitty? Money trees occasionally bless you with white flowers. The Adonidia Palm shows off with flowers and festive red berries. String of Hearts offers pretty, cat-safe blooms. Cat-friendly plants can be showstoppers too!
Where should you put plants when you have a cat?
Turn your home into a cat-safe jungle by hanging plants from the ceiling, crowding surfaces so kitty can't perch, or investing in mini greenhouses. Place low-light houseplants away from your cat's favorite sunbathing spots – they love their warm patch!
What indoor plants are cat friendly?
Your cat-friendly indoor jungle can include spider plants, cat palms, money trees, cast iron plants, and majestic palms. These pet-safe houseplants let your space look fabulous without risking your furry friend's health. Plants and cats CAN coexist in stylish harmony!
What plants do cats like?
Cats go bonkers for cat grass and catnip – they're like kitty candy! Spider plants are feline favorites, thanks to their mild hallucinogenic properties (cat TV, basically). These pet-friendly plants might distract your curious kitty from munching on your other houseplants.
Do cats know how to avoid toxic plants?
Never assume your cat has a built-in plant toxicity detector! Even the smartest felines don't instinctively avoid dangerous houseplants. Instead, fill your space with non-toxic, pet-friendly plants – there are plenty of gorgeous options that are cat-safe for your furry companion.
Why is my cat obsessed with my plants?
It’s true - cats are naturally curious! Especially if a large plant appears in their home. Plants are enticing because they move, smell, feel, and taste different. So don’t be surprised if your nosy feline makes a beeline for your plants.
Why do cats eat plants?
Cats munch on houseplants out of curiosity and for entertainment – like the popcorn you binge on while watching reality TV. With cat grass specifically, although they can't digest it, the nibbling helps eliminate hairballs and other indigestibles. Perfectly normal feline behavior.
Do cats need to eat plants?
Technically no – cats are carnivores with no nutritional need for houseplants. But do you really need that chocolate bar sitting on the top shelf? (No judgment!) Nibbling greenery is natural feline behavior. Helping to eliminate hairballs, or fulfilling idle curiosity.