Pet-Friendly House Plants: Enjoying Greenery, Safely

Adding house plants to your home can brighten up any space, but if you have pets, make sure to choose plants that are safe for them.

Here are some pet-friendly house plants that you can enjoy worry-free:

• Spider Plant: This plant is known for its air-purifying qualities and low maintenance. The spider plant is safe for both cats and dogs.
• Boston Fern: This lush fern is non-toxic to pets and adds a touch of greenery to indoor spaces. Consider adding this one near your shower, as it prefers high humidity.
• Areca Palm: A tropical plant that can thrive indoors and is safe for pets when ingested in small amounts. Plus, the Areca palm is effective at removing common indoor pollutants.
• Calathea: These colorful, patterned plants are non-toxic to pets and add a unique flair to any room.

It's important to also be aware of common house plants that can be toxic to pets, including:

• Lilies: Extremely toxic to cats, even in small amounts, and should be avoided entirely.
• Aloe Vera: While beneficial for humans, aloe can cause gastrointestinal issues in pets, if ingested.
• Philodendron: Contains calcium oxalate crystals that can irritate pets' mouths and digestive systems.
• Sago Palm: Highly toxic to both cats and dogs, causing severe symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and liver failure.

By choosing pet-friendly plants and being aware of toxic varieties, you can create a safe and beautiful environment for both you and your pets.

The ASPCA is a great resource to search for toxic and non-toxic plants, visit aspca.org. If you are concerned that your pet ingested a toxic plant, call your veterinarian right away.

Keeping our furry friends happy and healthy is the goal, but emergencies and accidents can happen. We’re excited to tell you that we now offer pet insurance through CEFCU Insurance Services, Inc.! Give our experienced reps a call at 1.844.813.4524 to find out what options best fit your budget and your pet!