TOP 10 Pet Friendly Plants

Pets bring so much joy, companionship, and unconditional love to our lives, and so it's only natural that we strive to create a safe and comfortable environment for them. But what about our plants? Can pets and plants co-exist harmoniously under one roof?

In short, yes! You just need to be aware that not every plant is a good choice and in fact some plants can be really dangerous to dogs, cats and other common household pets. In this article, we’ll discuss all things plants and pets so you can discover the best plant companions and those that are safe to have around your pets.

What Is Plant Toxicity?

Some plants contain toxic substances that, when ingested or even touched by our furry friends, can cause harmful reactions. These reactions can range from mild digestive issues to more severe symptoms like vomiting, diarrhoea, or even organ failure. It is therefore crucial to be aware of these toxic plants and ensure your animals’ safety by choosing pet friendly plants for your home and garden.

Plants Your Pet Should Avoid

If you’re looking for a new plant as a pet owner, it’s important to know which are toxic to their health. Here are some common toxic plants for dogs and cats that you may not know about:

Common Toxic Plants for Dogs

• Sago Palm. Although these plants are visually appealing, this plant contains toxins that can be deadly to dogs if ingested.
• Philodendron. The philodendron is a popular houseplant that contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause mouth irritation, swelling, and difficulty swallowing in dogs.
• Azaleas and Rhododendrons. These flowering garden plants contain toxins that are harmful to dogs and can cause vomiting, drooling, and even cardiovascular issues.
• Lily of the Valley. Although the sweet fragrance of this outdoor plant might be tempting, lily of the valley can lead to cardiac arrhythmia and digestive upset in dogs.

Common Toxic Plants for Cats

• Dieffenbachia. This plant contains calcium oxalate crystals that can cause oral irritation, swelling, and difficulty breathing in cats.
• Aloe Vera. While it’s beneficial for humans, aloe vera can cause digestive upset and potential kidney damage.
• Lily Plants. Many species of lilies can be highly toxic to cats and may lead to kidney failure.
• Oleander. This outdoor shrub contains cardiac glycosides that can cause severe symptoms in cats like irregular heartbeats and lethargy.

A full list of plants that are potentially harmful to pets and/or humans

The Royal Horticultural Society have a great resource on their website that gives a comprehensive list of plants that our potentially harmful to pets or children and also their possible affects. This is a great first reference point when planning a new garden or houseplant and also a good guide if you are concerned about symptoms after being near plants

What To Do If Your Pet Comes into Contact With Toxic Plants

If you think your pet has come into contact with or has ingested a toxic plant, it’s important that you seek veterinary advice immediately. Either from your own vet or there is a national Animal poison line that offers advice to pet owners 24 hours a day available on 01202 509000. Acting fast can make a significant impact on your pet’s health and well-being! While waiting for advice, try removing any plant material from your pet’s mouth and keep them calm and comfortable.

Our TOP 10 Pet Friendly Plant Recommendations

Now that we’ve covered the hazards, let’s focus on the positives! Here are our TOP 10 pet friendly plants that will add beauty and tranquillity to your space without compromising your furry bestie’s well-being.

Indoor Pet Friendly Plants

1. Parlour Palm (Chamaedorea Elegans) The parlour palm is an elegant plant that thrives in low light conditions to add some year-round greenery to any room. They make excellent plants for any room and are safe for pets.
2. Spider Plant Known for its air-purifying properties and spider's leg-like leaves, the spider plant is safe for both cats and dogs, making it an excellent choice for improving your indoor air quality while keeping your pets happy.
3. Satin Pothos With its beautiful foliage, this trailing vine is a pet-friendly alternative to other toxic houseplants, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of the cascading leaves without compromising your pet's well-being. They’re also excellent air purifiers and can put up with a range of light conditions.
4. Bougainvillea These vibrant and hardy plants will bring a splash of colour to your indoor spaces while being safe for pets, allowing you to create a lively and pet-friendly atmosphere in your home that will last you through until autumn.
5. Banana Plant This tropical plant is a perfect pet friendly option for plant enthusiasts who want to add an exotic touch to their home without causing any harm to their furry friends. They tolerate low light and make great additions to any home or office.

   Outdoor Pet Friendly Plants

6. Patio Rose These beautiful roses are safe for pets, meaning you get to enjoy the fragrance and beauty of roses without worry. Whether they fill your garden beds or are a charming patio addition, they’re one of the most popular pet friendly outdoor plants!
7. Lemon Tree Growing your own lemons is a treat! All citrus trees are edible and classed as non-toxic to pets, making them perfect for your outdoor space and your furry buddies.
8. Blueberry Plant Blueberry plants produce delicious and nutritious berries that can be grown in your garden while providing a safe and enjoyable treat for you and your pets. Just make sure the birds don’t get them first!
9. Lavender Plant Not only does lavender add a wonderful aroma to your garden, but it’s also a pet friendly herb that can promote relaxation and calm. Lavender plants create a serene and soothing environment for you and your pets.
10. Bay Plant Bay plants are versatile, evergreen, and perfect for culinary enthusiasts and pet owners alike! It poses no threat to pets, and so allows you to add a touch of flavour to your dishes and class to your garden, patio, or balcony without any worries.

FAQs

Can I grow herbs that are safe for pets?

Yes! There are several herbs that are safe for pets and can even offer health benefits. Just be sure to research and choose herbs that are known to be safe for your specific pets.

Can I grow fruits or vegetables that are safe for pets?

Of course! Growing pet-friendly fruits and vegetables in your garden can provide both you and your pets with fresh and healthy treats. Blueberries, for example, are safe and enjoyable for pets to consume.

Are there any pet-friendly plants that can thrive in low-light conditions?

Yes, there are several pet-friendly plants that can thrive in low-light conditions. Examples include the snake plant, pothos, and cast iron plant. These plants are excellent choices for areas in your home with limited natural light!

Can I use natural fertilizers and pesticides in my pet-friendly garden?

You can use natural fertilisers and pesticides in your pet-friendly garden. However, you should choose organic and pet-safe options, such as compost tea, neem oil, or vinegar solutions, to maintain a healthy garden without posing a risk to your pets.

Can I have plants if my pet has allergies?

If your pet has allergies, it's important to consult with a vet to identify the specific triggers and determine if having plants in your home is suitable. Some pets may be sensitive to certain plant allergens, while others might not be affected. Your vet can provide guidance based on your pet's individual needs.