Plants That Cats Can Eat

If you’re a cat owner with a green thumb, you know the struggle. Your feline friend seems irresistibly drawn to your houseplants, but you worry about their safety. Knowing which plants that cats can eat is essential for a harmonious home. This guide will help you create a safe indoor jungle that both you and your cat can enjoy.

Many common houseplants are toxic to cats, causing anything from mild upset to severe illness. It’s a real concern that can make plant parenting stressful. The good news is there are plenty of safe, non-toxic options. You can have a vibrant home filled with greenery without constant worry.

These plants are generally recognized as non-toxic to cats by sources like the ASPCA. Many cats will nibble on them without issue. Remember, even safe plants can cause mild stomach upset if eaten in large quantities. It’s always best to monitor your cat’s interactions with any plant.

Cat Grass (Wheatgrass, Oat Grass, Barley Grass)

This is the classic safe choice. Cat grass is not a single plant but typically a mix of cereal grasses.

Benefits: Provides fiber, which can aid digestion and help with hairballs. It gives cats a safe outlet for their chewing instinct.
How to Grow: Buy pre-seeded kits or seeds from a pet store. Plant in a shallow, sturdy pot that won’t tip over. Keep soil moist and place in a sunny spot. It grows quickly and you can succession plant for a constant supply.

Catnip (Nepeta cataria)

Famous for its euphoric effect on many cats, catnip is a member of the mint family.

Benefits: Provides mental stimulation and play enrichment. Not all cats react to it, as the sensitivity is hereditary.
How to Grow: Prefers plenty of sunlight and well-drained soil. You can grow it indoors on a sunny windowsill or outdoors. It’s a hardy perennial in many climates. You can dry the leaves for toys too.

Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)

This popular, easy-care houseplant is safe for cats. Its long, arching leaves are often irresistible to felines.

Note: While non-toxic, spider plants have a mild hallucinogenic effect similar to catnip for some cats. This can lead to obsessive chewing, so you might need to hang it out of reach if your cat demolishes it.
Care: Thrives in indirect light and is very forgiving. It produces “pups” or baby plants that you can easily repot.

Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)

This lush, feathery fern adds wonderful texture to a room and is perfectly safe.

It prefers high humidity and consistent moisture, so it’s great for a bathroom with good light. Keep the soil damp but not soggy, and mist the fronds regularly. Its soft leaves might tempt a curious cat, but they pose no poison risk.

African Violet (Saintpaulia)

For a pop of safe, pet-friendly color, African violets are a lovely choice.

They bloom frequently with proper care, offering flowers in purple, pink, white, or blue.
They prefer bright, indirect light and should be watered from the bottom to avoid getting water on their fuzzy leaves, which can cause spots.

Other Safe Common Houseplants

This list includes more options to consider for your home:

Orchids (Phalaenopsis, etc.): Most common orchids are safe. The blooms and leaves are non-toxic.
Peperomia: Many varieties with attractive foliage, all generally safe.
Friendship Plant (Pilea involucrata): Has textured, colorful leaves.
Certain Palms: Parlor Palm and Areca Palm are safe choices. Always double-check the specific palm species.
Herbs: Basil, cilantro, dill, and thyme are safe in moderation and useful for your cooking too!

Creating a Cat-Safe Plant Space

Knowing safe plants is half the battle. Managing your cat’s behavior is the other. Here’s how to set up your space for success.

Strategic Placement

Even safe plants can be ruined by an overzealous cat. Use these tactics:

Place plants on high shelves or in hanging planters well out of leaping range.
Use heavy, wide-based pots that are difficult to knock over.
Create a dedicated “cat garden” with pots of cat grass and catnip on the floor to distract them from other plants.

Deterrents for Delicate Plants

If your cat is particularly pesistent, try these gentle deterrents:

Mix a spray of water with a bit of lemon juice or vinegar (cats dislike the smell) and lightly mist the plant’s leaves. Test on a small area first to ensure it doesn’t damage the plant.
Place aluminum foil or double-sided tape around the base of the plant; most cats dislike the texture on their paws.
Provide plenty of alternative entertainment like toys, scratching posts, and window perches to curb boredom-induced plant chewing.

Dangerous Plants to Avoid Completely

Some plants are highly toxic and should be avoided if you have a cat. Here is a critical list of common ones:

Lilies (Lilium, Hemerocallis): Extremely dangerous. All parts, including pollen, can cause acute kidney failure. Even a small amount is a veterinary emergency.
Sago Palm: All parts are poisonous, especially the seeds. Causes severe liver damage.
Pothos & Philodendron: Contain insoluble calcium oxalates, causing oral irritation, drooling, and vomiting.
Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane): Also contains oxalates, leading to intense mouth burning and swelling.
Snake Plant (Sansevieria): Can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Aloe Vera: The latex inside the leaves is a purgative and can cause vomiting and lethargy.

If you suspect your cat has ingested a toxic plant, contact your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center immediately. Don’t wait for symptoms to appear.

What to Do If Your Cat Eats a Plant

Stay calm and follow these steps:

Identify the Plant: Try to figure out exactly what plant they ate. Take a photo or bring a sample with you to the vet.
Call for Help: Immediately call your veterinarian or a pet poison helpline. Have the plant name and an estimate of how much was eaten ready.
Observe Symptoms: Note any symptoms like vomiting, drooling, lethargy, or difficulty breathing. Relay this information to the professional.
Do Not Induce Vomiting: Unless specifically instructed by a vet, do not try to make your cat vomit.

FAQ: Safe Plants for Cats

Are succulents safe for cats?

Some are, but many are not. Haworthia and Echeveria are generally considered safe. However, Jade Plants and Aloe are toxic. Always check the specific succulent type before bringing it home.

Can I grow catnip indoors?

Absolutely! Catnip grows very well indoors on a sunny windowsill. It needs at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight and well-drained soil. It’s a great way to provide fresh, organic catnip for your pet.

My cat vomits after eating cat grass, is that normal?

Occasionally, yes. The grass can tickle the stomach lining or help bring up hairballs. If it happens frequently or your cat seems unwell, consult your vet. Moderation is key—offer small amounts at a time.

Are flowers safe for cats?

Many are not. Besides lilies, avoid tulips, daffodils, and chrysanthemums. Safe flower options include roses (watch for thorns), sunflowers, and snapdragons. Always verify the specific variety.

How can I stop my cat from digging in potted plants?

Cover the soil with large, smooth stones or pine cones. You can also place a sheet of plastic canvas (used for needlepoint) over the soil, cutting a hole for the plant stem. This blocks access to the dirt.

Creating a home that both you and your cat can love is totally achievable. By choosing the right plants that cats can eat and employing smart placement strategies, you can enjoy your hobby without fear. Start with a pot of cat grass or a spider plant and see how your feline friend reacts. With a little planning, your indoor garden can be a source of joy—not worry—for everyone in the household. Remember, when in doubt about a plant’s safety, always look it up or ask a professional. Your cat’s health is worth that extra moment of caution.