Best Indoor Plants for a Pet Friendly Home: House Plants Safe for Cats and Dogs

Indoor greenery is a simple and beautiful way to refresh your home—but for pet owners, not every houseplant is safe. Many indoor plants can be toxic to cats and dogs, even if they just take a small nibble. If you share your space with furry friends, it’s essential to choose pet-safe houseplants that will enhance your space while keeping everyone safe.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best indoor plants that are pet friendly, easy to care for, and non-toxic to your four-legged companions. Whether you’re a first-time plant parent or a seasoned indoor gardener, finding the right plants that are safe around pets is key to creating a home full of natural beauty—without risk.

Why Pet Safe Plants Matter

Not all greenery is safe. Even certain plants marketed as “ornamental” can be a toxic plant hazard if ingested. If you’re unsure whether your current house plants are safe for cats or safe for dogs, check trusted databases like the ASPCA’s toxic and non-toxic plant list.

Common Toxic Symptoms in Pets

While some plants are completely safe, others can still cause mild to severe symptoms. Signs your cat or dog may have ingested a harmful plant include:

• Drooling or vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy or seizures
• Mouth or paw irritation

That’s why creating a home without posing risks starts with the right pet-friendly plant choices.

Calathea: A Safe and Stunning Houseplant

The calathea family, including calathea lancifolia and maranta leuconeura, is known for its vibrant foliage and unique leaf patterns. Often called the peacock plant or prayer plant, calatheas are a striking addition to any room and are considered non-toxic to cats and dogs.

• Thrives in indirect light is ideal conditions
• Enjoys higher humidity, making it great for bathrooms
• Avoid overwatering—keep the top of the soil slightly damp

Not only is this pet-safe houseplant gorgeous, it’s also a perfect choice for indoors.

Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)

The lush boston fern is one of the most beloved fern types for indoor decorating—and for good reason.

• A classic non-toxic option that’s safe for pets
• Prefers indirect light and humid air
• Needs regular misting during its growing season

For a visually soft texture and movement, nephrolepis exaltata offers elegance without danger.

Tip: Use a hanging basket to elevate this dog safe plant and keep it out of easy reach.

Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)

The spider plant, also known by its scientific name chlorophytum, is one of the easiest indoor plants to grow—and it’s fully pet-safe.

• Low-light tolerant and easy to prune
• Grows baby plants (or “spiderettes”) that can be propagated
• Known to tolerate neglect, ideal for beginners

Though spider plants are non-toxic, some pets may be tempted to nibble the dangling leaves, so consider hanging them if your pet gets curious.

Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans)

The parlor palm is another great pet-friendly plant that offers lush greenery with minimal effort.

• Grows well in bright light or shade
• Slow-growing and adaptable
• Does best near a west-facing window

Because it’s safe for dogs and cats, chamaedorea elegans is one of the most popular pet-friendly plants in apartment living.

More Pet-Friendly Indoor Plants for Safe, Green Living

If you're still brainstorming the right plants for your space, this list offers more pet friendly plants that are both stylish and safe. Whether you’re after bold green leaves, soft textures, or quirky forms, these additions are great for sprucing up your home indoors.

Money Tree (Pachira aquatica)

The money tree—botanically known as pachira aquatica—is one of the most popular indoor plants and is often gifted for good luck and prosperity.

• Recognizable for its braided trunk and lush green leaves
• Prefers bright spot lighting and consistent moisture (avoid overwatering)
• Considered nontoxic and safe for pets, though chewing should still be discouraged

The money tree is a top option to keep your space vibrant and safe for your furry friends.

Ponytail Palm (Beaucarnea recurvata)

The whimsical ponytail palm, or beaucarnea recurvata, isn’t a true palm but makes a striking, pet-safe statement.

• Features a bulbous base and cascading fronds
• Low maintenance and drought-tolerant
• Ideal for a sunny window with direct light or filtered sun

The ponytail palm can take years to reach full height, making it perfect for long-term growth in any indoor setting.

Pilea Peperomioides (Chinese Money Plant)

Also known as the chinese money plant, this unique houseplant features circular leaves on slender stems.

• Technically a type of pilea peperomioides
• Easy to propagate and great for modern interiors
• Completely pet-friendly plant and safe around curious pets

As a bonus, the money plant symbolizes good fortune—making it both decorative and meaningful.

Calathea Lancifolia and Maranta Leuconeura (Prayer Plants)

Both calathea lancifolia and maranta leuconeura belong to the prayer plant family, known for their patterned foliage and habit of folding leaves at night.

• Indirect light is ideal, as direct sunlight can scorch leaves
• Enjoy moist soil and higher humidity
• Completely safe for pets, and often mistaken for the more highly toxic philodendron

These indoor plants offer a rich, tropical look that works beautifully indoors without worry.

Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)

The cast iron plant lives up to its name: hardy, durable, and nearly impossible to kill.

• Tolerates low light and neglect
• Adds elegant vertical greenery to shaded corners
• One of the best plants that are safe for both cats and dogs

This plant is easy to grow and a favorite for new plant parents.

Peperomia and Polka Dot Plants

Peperomia obtusifolia, often called the baby rubber plant, has thick, waxy leaves and a compact structure.

• Thrives in medium to bright light
• Low water needs; be careful to avoid root rot
• Safe and nontoxic, making it an excellent choice for pet friendly homes

For something more playful, try the polka dot plant, known for its speckled pink or white foliage. It's also safe for pets, though not ideal for very low light.

Other Safe House Plants to Consider

These pet-safe options also make great additions to your indoor jungle:

• Watermelon peperomia – striped like its namesake and great for smaller spaces
• Rattlesnake plant – a type of calathea with spotted leaves and ripple edges
• Bird's nest fern (asplenium nidus) – lush and tropical, great for humid areas
• Maidenhair fern – soft, delicate leaves that pair well with hanging baskets
• Hoya carnosa – also called the wax plant, with thick leaves and occasional flower clusters

Note: Even pet-friendly plants may cause mild tummy upset if your cat or dog eats a large quantity. Always monitor chewing behavior.

Plants to Avoid: Safety First

Even with the wide selection of pet-safe options, some plants to avoid include:

• Lilies (extremely highly toxic to cats)
• Aloe vera (despite being soothing for humans)
• Philodendrons and pothos (common but unsafe)
• Sago palms (toxic to all pets and humans)

Always verify your choices with a trusted source like the ASPCA’s searchable plant database.

Final Thoughts: Choose the Right Plants for a Pet Friendly Home

Creating a pet-safe oasis doesn’t mean sacrificing beauty or variety. With so many beautiful indoor plants that are safe for pets, you can enjoy a lush home while keeping your furry friends out of harm’s way.

Key Takeaways:

• Choose pet friendly plants like the money tree, parlor palm, and cast iron plant
• Avoid highly toxic varieties, especially if your pet tends to nibble
• Always consider light requirements, moisture levels, and your personal plant care style
• When in doubt, consult a vet or the ASPCA database