The safest way to choose a houseplant for a home with pets is to verify its exact botanical name against a current veterinary toxicity database. Common names can describe unrelated plants, and “non-toxic” does not mean a plant is edible or incapable of causing stomach upset.
Keep plants out of reach whenever possible, prevent chewing, and identify the plant before bringing it home. If a pet may have eaten a potentially toxic plant, contact a veterinarian or animal poison-control service promptly.
Why Botanical Names Matter
Plant labels and common names are not always consistent. Compare the botanical name, cultivar, and label photo before relying on a toxicity listing. If the name is uncertain, treat the plant as unverified and keep it away from pets.
Plants Commonly Listed as Non-Toxic
The following botanical names are listed by the ASPCA as non-toxic to cats and dogs. Confirm that your plant matches the listing.
- Spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum): adaptable foliage with arching leaves and plantlets.
- Parlor palm (Chamaedorea elegans): a compact palm that tolerates lower indoor light.
- Several calathea and prayer-plant listings: verify the exact species because common names can overlap.
Do not assume a cultivar or a different plant in the same family shares the same toxicity status.
Plants Commonly Listed as Toxic or Irritating
Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Pothos contains insoluble calcium oxalates. Chewing the foliage may cause mouth irritation, drooling, retching, vomiting, or diarrhea.
Peace lily (Spathiphyllum spp.)
Peace lilies also contain insoluble calcium oxalates and should be kept away from pets that chew plants.
Philodendron (Philodendron spp.)
Many philodendrons contain insoluble calcium oxalates. Verify the species, but do not assume a philodendron is pet-safe because it is easy to grow.
Chinese evergreen (Aglaonema spp.)
The ASPCA identifies Aglaonema among plants that can cause irritation when chewed or ingested.
Snake plant (Dracaena trifasciata)
The ASPCA lists Dracaena trifasciata as toxic to cats and dogs. Reported signs may include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Sago palm (Cycas revoluta)
Cycads require particular caution and can pose serious poisoning risks. Treat every part of the plant as dangerous unless a veterinarian advises otherwise.
“Non-Toxic” Does Not Mean Risk-Free
A non-toxic listing does not mean the plant is edible or unable to cause stomach upset. Soil, fertilizer, pesticides, decorative moss, and treated leaves can create separate risks.
How to Make Plants Safer Around Pets
- Verify the botanical name before purchase.
- Keep toxic or unverified plants behind closed doors or out of reach.
- Remove fallen leaves promptly.
- Store fertilizer, pesticides, and amendments securely.
- Do not use wet pesticides or leaf products where pets can contact them.
- Keep a photo and botanical name for every plant in the home.
What to Do If a Pet Chews a Plant
- Identify it: save the label, take a photo, and note the amount and time.
- Contact a professional: call a veterinarian or recognized animal poison-control service.
- Do not induce vomiting without instructions: home remedies can create additional risks.
- Watch for symptoms: drooling, mouth irritation, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, tremors, difficulty swallowing, or breathing problems require professional guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the safest houseplant for cats and dogs?
There is no answer without verifying the plant. The ASPCA lists Chlorophytum comosum and Chamaedorea elegans as non-toxic to cats and dogs, but confirm the botanical name first.
Are snake plants safe for pets?
No. The ASPCA lists Dracaena trifasciata, commonly sold as snake plant, as toxic to cats and dogs.
Are pothos and philodendrons toxic?
Many contain insoluble calcium oxalates that can irritate the mouth and digestive tract when chewed. Keep them away from pets that may bite the foliage.
Can a non-toxic plant still make a pet sick?
Yes. Any plant material can cause stomach upset, and the soil, fertilizer, pesticide, or decorative materials may create separate risks.
Where can I check toxicity?
Start with the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant database, then contact a veterinarian for advice about a specific exposure.
For related species-specific information, explore the Snake Plant Care Guide and our low-light houseplant guide.
Sources: ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants database and ASPCA: Is That Houseplant Safe for Your Pets?.