Pet-safe indoor plants are important because many popular houseplants are toxic to cats, dogs, or both. Monstera, pothos, philodendron, peace lily, snake plant, ZZ plant, dieffenbachia, sago palm, and many true lilies are not safe choices for pets that chew plants.
No plant should be treated as edible for pets, even if listed non-toxic. Chewing any plant can cause stomach upset. But choosing non-toxic plants lowers the risk.
For low-light apartment choices, read Best Low-Light Indoor Plants for Apartments.
Last updated: June 6, 2026.
Quick Answer
Easy pet-safe indoor plants include spider plant, parlor palm, ponytail palm, peperomia, prayer plant, calathea, Boston fern, bird’s nest fern, African violet, Christmas cactus, hoya, and some orchids. Verify the exact plant with ASPCA before buying.
Easy Pet-Safe Options
| Plant | Light | Care notes |
|---|---|---|
| Spider plant | bright indirect to lower light | easy, can brown at tips |
| Parlor palm | low to medium | avoid overwatering |
| Ponytail palm | bright light | drought tolerant |
| Peperomia | medium indirect | compact, avoid soggy soil |
| Prayer plant | medium indirect | likes humidity |
| Calathea | medium indirect | humidity-sensitive |
| Boston fern | medium indirect | needs moisture and humidity |
| Bird’s nest fern | medium indirect | keep evenly moist |
| African violet | bright indirect | avoid wet crown |
| Christmas cactus | bright indirect | seasonal bloom |
| Hoya | bright indirect | let dry partly |
Popular Plants to Avoid Around Chewers
Avoid or place securely out of reach:
- pothos
- philodendron
- monstera
- peace lily
- snake plant
- ZZ plant
- dumb cane
- sago palm
- true lilies for cats
- aloe
- jade plant
If a pet eats a plant, contact a veterinarian or animal poison control.
Best Choices for Low Light
Pet-safer choices for lower light include:
- spider plant
- parlor palm
- some peperomias
- prayer plant if humidity is adequate
For north windows, read Best Plants for North-Facing Windows.
Tips for Pets That Chew
- place plants on shelves or hanging baskets
- use heavy pots that do not tip
- avoid dangling tempting vines
- offer pet grass if appropriate
- clean fallen leaves
- avoid toxic plants entirely if pet is persistent
FAQ
Is spider plant safe for cats and dogs?
ASPCA lists spider plant as non-toxic to cats and dogs.
Is monstera pet-safe?
No. Monstera is commonly listed as toxic to cats and dogs due to irritating calcium oxalate crystals.
Are non-toxic plants completely safe?
Non-toxic means lower poisoning risk, not that pets should eat them. Ingestion can still cause vomiting or upset stomach.
Related Reading
- Best Low-Light Indoor Plants for Apartments
- Best Plants for North-Facing Windows
- Low-Maintenance Indoor Plants That Survive Neglect
- Indoor Plant Pest Control Guide