9 Houseplants to Keep Away from Your Cat

9 Houseplants to Keep Away from Your Cat

While adding indoor plants can make the air fresher and add to the homely vibe, you must avoid selecting certain plants if you have a cat. Ensure that you steer clear of common houseplants that are toxic for cats, and don’t assume that your cat will instinctively stay away from poisonous plants. Here are some houseplants to avoid if you’re a cat parent:

  • Aloe vera
    While Aloe has several medicinal benefits for humans, it is listed among the most common houseplants that are toxic for cats. It can cause vomiting, diarrhea, changes in urine color, depression, and tremors in your furry friend.
  • Asian lilies
    All parts of the lily plant, including the flower, pollen, leaves, and stem, are toxic to cats. If a cat licks even a few grains of pollen that might have transferred onto their fur, it can cause renal failure.
  • Asparagus fern
    This lush, green plant contains chemicals that can cause skin issues in your cat if its skin comes into contact with the plant. Eating the plant may also cause gastric trouble like pain, vomiting, and diarrhea.
  • Begonia
    Though they look harmless, begonias are one of the houseplants that are toxic for cats. The sap from this plant contains microscopic crystals that can be poisonous if ingested by cats, and the roots are also considered to be toxic.
  • Birds of paradise
    Famed for their bright, colorful flowers, these plants are great for creating a focal point, but avoid getting them home if you have a cat. The leaves of these plants contain hydrocyanic acid and are mildly toxic, while the flowers and seeds are more dangerous to your pet.
  • English ivy
    English ivy is often favored because of its low-maintenance and air-purifying properties, but this plant is poisonous to cats if ingested. The sap from the plant can also cause skin irritation, rashes, and blisters.
  • Cutleaf philodendron
    Also known as the Swiss cheese plant, this houseplant grows well both indoors and outdoors. Sadly, the plant leaves contain crystals of calcium oxalate that can cause gastric issues in cats. If your cat chews the leaves and then transfers saliva to the eyes while grooming, the toxins could cause a burning sensation in their eyes.
  • Snake plant
    This air-purifying plant that thrives without any special attention adds a living, sculptural element to your décor but can be very dangerous for your cat as it contains several mild toxins. While it is not dangerous if touched, it can cause stomach issues if ingested.
  • Golden pothos
    This easy-to-grow vine has calcium oxalate crystals in its leaves. If your cat bites the leaves, the crystals can cause a burning sensation in their throat and stomach.

If you already have some of these houseplants that are toxic for cats and do not want to get rid of them, ensure that they are kept out of your cat’s reach. Also, remember that unlike dogs, cats can climb onto high surfaces as well, so putting these plants at high levels won’t ensure their safety.