6 Pet-Safe Indoor Plants and Dr. Nicole’s Top Tips for a Pet-Safe Indoor Garden
What plants are safe for Animals?
Following closely behind our fur babies are our plant babies, but did you know that some plants are unsafe to have around your pets? Many common houseplants can be toxic if ingested by our pets, so it is crucial to choose the right ones.
To help you create a safe, but still beautiful indoor garden, we have compiled a list of our 6 favourites, along with some tips from our favourite Vet, Dr. Nicole Rous.
Top 6 Plants that are Pet Friendly
1. Money Tree (Pachira aquatica)
The Money Tree is not only a safe, non-toxic option, it is easy to care for (aka harder to kill!) and is even a symbol of good luck! We love the unique shaped cute little leaves too!
2. Calathea (Calathea zebrina)
Calathea’s are a group of decretive plants known for their stunning foliage patterns. Varieties including the Calathea Orbifolia and Calathea Rattlesnake are safe for pets, just keep in mind that they are not a fan of direct sunlight and prefer consistent humidity.
Calathea’s are a group of decretive plants known for their stunning foliage patterns. Varieties including the Calathea Orbifolia and Calathea Rattlesnake are safe for pets, just keep in mind that they are not a fan of direct sunlight and prefer consistent humidity.
3. Nerve Plant (Fittonia)
It’s pink. Need we say more? The colourful leaves of the Fittonia plant ads a pop of colour to any room. They are low maintenance and thrive in medium to low light conditions. They can be used in terrariums or as a ground cover for larger pots. Best of all, pet safe!
It’s pink. Need we say more? The colourful leaves of the Fittonia plant ads a pop of colour to any room. They are low maintenance and thrive in medium to low light conditions. They can be used in terrariums or as a ground cover for larger pots. Best of all, pet safe!
4. Watermelon Peperomia (Peperomia argyreia)
The Watermelon Peperomia gets its name from its leaves which resemble a watermelon rind - which is lucky, because our doggos love noshing on a juicy watermelon, and this plant is also safe to ingest! Another easy to care for and attractive plant to have in your home.
The Watermelon Peperomia gets its name from its leaves which resemble a watermelon rind - which is lucky, because our doggos love noshing on a juicy watermelon, and this plant is also safe to ingest! Another easy to care for and attractive plant to have in your home.
5. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
Who doesn’t love a good fern? With delicate, feathery fronds and even air purifying quantities, there’s so much to love about these plants! The Boston Fern is non-toxic for pets, and prefers indirect light and constant moisture to thrive (so don’t forget to water it!)
Who doesn’t love a good fern? With delicate, feathery fronds and even air purifying quantities, there’s so much to love about these plants! The Boston Fern is non-toxic for pets, and prefers indirect light and constant moisture to thrive (so don’t forget to water it!)
6. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum Comosum)
Another great non-toxic choice with air-purifying abilities and striking arched leaves. These guys are resilient, and can adapt to various light conditions. They look greats in hanging pots/baskets, or as floor plants.
Another great non-toxic choice with air-purifying abilities and striking arched leaves. These guys are resilient, and can adapt to various light conditions. They look greats in hanging pots/baskets, or as floor plants.
Dr. Nicole's Top Tips for a Pet-Safe Garden:
1. Always research a plants toxicity level before bringing it home. Here's a quick link to come back to.
2. If you are not confident of a plant’s toxicity status, place potentially toxic plants out of your pets reach, or use barriers to prevent access.
3. Keep an eye on your plants when watering them for any signs of damage or disturbance caused by your pets as they will often chew inappropriate things when left alone!
4. If you suspect your pet has ingested a toxic plant, contact your vet immediately. The prognosis for recovery from toxin ingestion is best when action is taken immediately. Photograph the plant and call ahead to the vet to let them know you’re on your way. Your veterinarian will generally induce vomiting if ingested under 2 hrs to clear the toxin out of the system.
5. Indoor plants are amazing for air quality which is so important for our fur family. Don’t be discouraged from keeping them. You can enjoy the beauty of nature in your home, while ensuring the wellbeing of your furry companions!
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