The Definitive Guide to Pet-Safe Houseplants (ASPCA-Verified)

Quick answer: Many beautiful houseplants are non-toxic to cats and dogs—but some popular favorites are not. Below you’ll find an ASPCA-verified list of safe choices, the common toxic plants to avoid, and safer look-alike swaps. For a custom list that fits your light, space, and pets, use the AI Plant Doctor Tool.

Important Safety Notes

“Non-toxic” ≠ edible. Even safe plants can cause mild GI upset if nibbled.
If you suspect ingestion of a toxic plant: contact your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (24/7) at (888) 426-4435.

Tip: Place plants out of reach, use stable pots, and provide pet-friendly distractions (cat grass, toys) to reduce chewing.

Top Pet-Safe Houseplants (ASPCA-Verified)

These favorites are listed by the ASPCA as non-toxic to cats and dogs:

Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum) — forgiving, great in hanging baskets.
Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans) — classic, low-maintenance palm for living rooms.
Calathea & Prayer Plant (Calathea spp., Maranta) — patterned foliage, shade-tolerant.
African Violet (Saintpaulia) — compact blooms, good for shelves/desks.
Boston Fern (Nephrolepis) — lush, loves humidity.
Peperomia (several species) — lots of textures, many trailing forms.
Swedish Ivy (Plectranthus australis) — easy trailing plant, lovely in bright-indirect light.
Phalaenopsis Orchid — long-lasting blooms, surprisingly beginner-friendly.
Bromeliads — colorful rosettes; thrive in bright-indirect light.

Personalize it: Tell our tool about your window direction, distance from glass, photos, and pet details. It returns a safe-for-pets plant short-list that will actually thrive in your home. Try the AI Plant Doctor Tool →

Popular Plants to Avoid Around Pets (and Safer Swaps)

These trendy plants are toxic to cats and dogs. Consider the suggested safer alternatives instead.

1) Monstera (Swiss Cheese Plant) — toxic

Swap with: Parlor Palm (similar “tropical” vibe), Calathea (bold foliage patterns).

2) Pothos / Devil’s Ivy — toxic

Swap with: Swedish Ivy or trailing Peperomia (safe trailing look).

3) Peace Lily — toxic

Swap with: Phalaenopsis Orchid (for showy blooms) or Bromeliad (colorful rosette).

4) Sago Palm — extremely toxic

Swap with: Parlor Palm or Areca/Butterfly Palms (non-toxic indoor palms).

5) Aloe vera — toxic

Swap with: Haworthia or certain Peperomia species for a succulent-esque look without the risk.

Note: Always verify specific species/cultivars; “look-alikes” can differ. When in doubt, run the plant name through our tool and we’ll check it against the ASPCA database.

Room-by-Room Safe Plant Picks

Low-Light Entryway

Parlor Palm, Calathea/Maranta, Peperomia

Bright-Indirect Living Room

Spider Plant (hanging), Boston Fern, Bromeliad, Phalaenopsis Orchid

Office/Desk

African Violet, Peperomia, Swedish Ivy (trailing shelf)

Tip: Use a small grow light in winter to keep pet-safe plants thriving without moving them.

What to Do If Your Pet Nibbles a Plant

Identify the plant (photo + label if possible).
Check for symptoms: drooling, vomiting, lethargy, mouth irritation.
Call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
Move the plant out of reach; consider safe alternatives next time.

Good news: Our AI tool can flag risks before you buy and suggest safe swaps that match your light and style.

Helpful Internal Links

Pet-Safe Plants FAQ (2025)

Are “pet-safe” plants 100% safe?

No plant is meant as a snack. Even non-toxic plants can cause mild stomach upset. Keep plants out of reach and call your vet if you’re concerned.

Which common houseplants are most dangerous?

Monstera, pothos, peace lily, sago palm, and aloe are all toxic to cats and dogs. Choose a non-toxic alternative if pets have access.

How can I shop confidently?

Run the plant name (or a photo) through our AI tool. It checks ASPCA data, your light levels, and your pets to give you a safe, personalized shortlist.