Indoor Plants that are Safe for Cats

We cannot even think of decorating our house without a green touch. But, what if the houseplants are poisonous to pet cats and dogs? Yes, it is quite possible. As cats have a natural tendency to nibble and bite things that come in their way, you should be very careful while choosing the type of indoor plant that will be safe for cats. By correctly selecting a feline-safe indoor plant, you can enjoy the company of your adorable pet, as well as maintain a green environment in and around the house.

Indoor Plants Safe for Cats

If you are a proud owner of cuddly pet cats, you will agree that these carnivores love to have some greens in their diet. The point is most of them target on houseplants, just for the fun of chewing them, or to satisfy their appetite at times of hunger. Whatever is the case, you are responsible for identifying cat-friendly indoor plants for your house as part of your cat care approaches. For your reference, some of the common indoor house plants safe for cats are listed below.

Catnip Plants
Amongst the various indoor plants safe for cats, the best of all is catnip. Belonging to the mint family, it is a perennial herb that possesses fragrant essential oils. About 250 species of catnip are identified, excluding the hybrid cultivars. Of these, the common catnip variety that bears white flower is the most preferred by cats. There are also pink and purple flowering catnip species, which you can grow indoors.

Cat Grasses
Indoor plants that are safe for cats include cat grass. It is believed that this type of grass provide folic acids and other essential vitamins, which are lacking in the regular cat diet. Also, grasses are a rich source of fiber that helps in ensuring a healthy digestive system for your pet. In nearly all plant supply centers and nurseries, you will get potted grasses grown from organic seeds, especially sold for cats.

African Violet
In case, you are looking for colorful blooms that get along well with cats, then try African violets. Remember to keep your container plants in an isolated spot, where the cat cannot reach. If at all, your cat eats the leaves and flowers, African violets are cat friendly plants and will not harm your pet in any way. These indoor plants safe for cats need sufficient water for timely blooming.

Pansy Flowers
Another cat-safe indoor plant is the flowering pansy. Many of you might be aware that these vibrant colored blooms are edible for humans, and they are not dangerous for cats too. However, do not encourage your pet cats to nibble on the foliage and flowers. After all, you had planted the pansies to enjoy their flowers, not for feeding cats, right!

Orchid Plants
Orchids are some of the most preferred houseplants for hobbyists. Hence, "Are orchids safe for cats" is a common query that lingers in the mind of pet owners. Nearly all varieties of orchids are safe indoor plants for cats. Do not believe in the common rumor that orchids cause allergic reactions to pet cats. You can include exotic orchids in your interior decor without hesitation.

Other Plants
Wheatgrass is not only healthy for us, but it is good for cats too. You can sow already soaked, organic wheat seeds in a large container with the regular potting soil. Water lightly and cover them with a newspaper to promote germination. After the seeds have sprouted, remove the newspaper and keep the pot near a window. In addition, other indoor plants safe for cats are thyme, coriander, sage, spider plant, snapdragon, peppermint and rosemary.

Speaking about plants poisonous to cats, some of them include daffodils, aloe vera, azalea, amaryllis, croton, cycad, cyclamen, English ivy, kalanchoe and peace lily. So, avoid these plants in your indoor gardening project. In case, you suspect that your cat has consumed toxic indoor plants, do not delay in getting the veterinarian's attention. Some plants can cause irreversible cat health problems, like digestive discomfort, kidney damage and heart complications.

So, select only the indoor plants safe for cats, and create a problem-free indoor environment for your pet. For additional info, you can take the advice of a local horticulturist on plants safe for cats. For pet owners who are worried about constant damage to houseplants, placing them above the ground level or at an accessible spot will help in protecting the plants. Another easy tip is to put double-sided sticky tape or glue around the pots to discourage the attacks of pet cats on plants.