Pet-Friendly Houseplants

Curious canines and uncooperative cats can make keeping an indoor garden exasperating, not to mention, unsafe. Every year, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) publishes a list of the top toxins most commonly reported that year — and plants are routinely in the top 10. Some of our favorite houseplants, including sago palm, aloe vera, and peace lilies are incredibly poisonous to cats and dogs.

However, it is possible to be both a pet parent and a plant parent simultaneously; you just need to choose wisely. What houseplants are safe for cats and dogs?

Pet-Friendly Houseplants

Tips for Keeping Pets Away From Houseplants

Cat Scat Mat

1. Put plants out of reach

This one is a no-brainer; the easiest way to protect both your plants and pets is to keep them separated. This might mean using a tall planter, a hanging basket, or simply keeping your sunroom door closed

2. Foil, with foil

Cats love to dig and scratch, especially in loose, gritty surface like soil. Try covering the surface of the soil around your plant with tin foil to deter. Don't want your houseplants to look like leftovers? Use stones or a specialty mat like the Cat Scat Mat instead.

3. Repel with smell

Soak cottonballs in a 2:1 mixture of water to either vinegar or rubbing alcohol, and place them lightly on the soil surface. Do not pour either vinegar or rubbing alcohol directly on the plant (a sure death sentence). If either of the above ingredients are too strong for your nose, try placing lemon or orange peels in the pot surrounding your plant — most pets find citrus incredibly unappealing.