10 cat-friendly plants (and which ones to avoid)

Whether in our gardens or in our homes, plants not only enhance the overall appearance of a space, but they can also help boost moods, increase creativity and reduce stress. But did you know some plants can actually be toxic to your cat if ingested?

While it’s important to know which plants could pose a danger to your furry friend, it is still possible to have green decor and healthy felines coexisting in the same place. So before you forego an indoor nature collection on account of whiskers, browse these 10 cat-friendly plants that are safe for your kitty and look good in your decor.

Why do cats eat plants?

Cats are curious. And just like little children, they often explore new things with their mouths. But if cats are obligate carnivores, or mostly meat eaters, why are they munching on my houseplants? There are several reasons, actually, and it’s best to start with their natural roots.

While most cats are domesticated from the wild, they still possess some innate, instinctual behaviours from their feline ancestors. Eating plants is very common among the cat population and is often something they do to explore textures, help pass a hairball, or even to just increase some nutrient value in their diet. But one of the most common reasons cats eat plants is out of sheer boredom.

You can solve the instinctual desire by only buying cat-friendly plants to keep your cat safe. And having a few sturdy and durable cat scratchers around will help as well. With a cat scratcher like Stak designed by Omlet, you will not only keep boredom at bay, but your cat will be entertained for hours!

10 non-toxic plants for cats

Grasses

If you were to give your cat a grass menu, they would likely choose “clippings from this morning’s mow” or a side helping of “dew-covered sprigs”. When it comes to grasses, most cats are not that picky. But in order to be sure your nursery doesn’t send them to the emergency, stick to harmless grass options such as bluegrass, lemongrass and purple fountain grass.

Ponytail palm plants

Known as the most patient of all houseplants, the ponytail palm plant is both easy to care for and easy on your cat. While it looks (and sounds) like a tropical greenery, this drought-tolerant plant is actually a succulent. In order to maintain its non-needy nature, the ponytail palm stores water in its trunk and produces long curly leaves that look like ponytails. So not only is it safe for your kitty to be around, but it gives your room a calming, tranquil look as well.

Catnip/Nepeta cataria

The only thing your cat loves more than you is catnip. And as luck would have it for you both, this euphoric herb plant is 100% safe for your cat to be around and nibble. Part of the mint family, catnip omits a scent that most cats find simply irresistible. Whether you have it in a planter in the corner or throughout your outdoor garden, cats are wildly attracted to this fragrant plant. In fact, it’s completely normal if you catch your kitty rubbing up against, rolling on or just straight up licking your catnip plant. They literally can’t help it.

Spider plants

When you see a spider in your house, you can usually count on your frisky feline to catch the pesky insect. But what if that spider is on a spider plant? No problem! This cat-friendly plant is completely non-toxic and 100% safe for your kitty to be around. And unlike the legged version, spider plants are easy to care for and simple to maintain.

Prayer plant

If your decor is one that invites a bolder, more colourful style, then a prayer plant may be just the houseplant you, and your cat, need. With striking leaves of striped white and pink colours, these cat-friendly plants are completely safe for your furry friend to be around.

Christmas cactus

While the name may imply that it is only a holiday plant, the Christmas cactus is actually available year-round and is also non-toxic for your cat. More of a succulent than a plant, this feline-friendly cactus produces beautiful pink flowers that are not harmful to your kitty if ingested. And bonus, they add bright colours to your greenery decor.

African violet

One of the most popular flower-blooming houseplants that is also safe for cats is the vibrant African violet. Due to their low maintenance care, many people with, and without, green thumbs like these plants as they add beauty to their space without a lot of requirements. And you can feel at ease knowing the flowers and leaves are not harmful to your cat if nibbled on.

Callisia turtle

This vine-like succulent plant is a great choice for your indoor garden decor as it mystically spills over pots with dense leaves and small white flowers. A unique addition to any home decor, the callisia turtle is also completely feline friendly. In fact, if your cat does eat it, don’t worry – this plant is full of nutrients. Rich in minerals and calcium, the callisia turtle can actually benefit your cat’s digestive system.

Banana tree

Looking to go bigger with your green decor? Then look no further than a banana tree – a dramatic accent plant that is also cat-friendly. The central stems of this tropical plant are often used in human cuisine, so it comes as no surprise that it has also been deemed a safe plant for felines to feast on as well.

Goldenseal

Herb plants are always a great choice when looking for cat-friendly greenery as most are harmless for your cat. Goldenseal sits at the top of the cat-safe list as it’s not only non-toxic but can also be used to treat everyday ailments. Used as a disinfectant for wounds and other sores, goldenseal is known for its soothing and healing properties. In fact, some studies show that, if ingested, goldenseal can help treat ulcers or high blood pressure in your cat as well.

Plants to avoid for your cat

The best defence against your cat’s health is a knowledgeable offence of which houseplants are toxic and potentially dangerous for your furry friend to be around. So if you have a cat in your home, you should be aware of which plants to stay away from to safeguard your cat’s health.

While this list is not exhaustive, some of the more popular indoor and outdoor plants to avoid are: Dieffenbachia, lily of the valley, lily, ficus, azalea, anthurium, daffodil, oleander, holly and mistletoe, poinsettia, yuccas, amaryllis, tulips, and sago palm.

But when purchasing any plants that your cat may be around, it’s best to do your research ahead of time to avoid any doubts or dangers. You can gather information on the internet or consult your vet or the nursery seller for advice as well. And remember, if your cat does ingest or come into contact with any of these toxic plants, you should immediately call or take your cat directly to the vet to seek help.

Omlet and keeping your cat safe

Cats are curious by nature and often unafraid to explore. And while no pet company can stop the inquisitive and common behaviour of plant-eating among cats, we endlessly ask how we can help you both stay safe and happy. With the Stak cat scratcher to end kitty boredom or the Catio outdoor cat enclosure that allows your feline to be in nature safely, we create the products that keep your cat out of trouble.

This entry was posted in Cats