Unfortunately, a ton of common house plants can be deadly to pets if they chew or ingest them—plants like aloe vera, arrowhead plant, golden pothos, english ivy, and plenty more. If your furry friend's appetite includes anything that its wandering mouth can get a hold of, then you need to know what type of plants you keep at home.
Of course, there are different levels of plant toxicity. For example, mistletoe berries can kill an animal with just one or two bites. Lilies can cause kidney failure and excess urination. Holly will give your pet symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain. If your pet is having any of these issues, you should call your vet—or poison control—immediately.
Thankfully, though, there are several of nontoxic plants you don't have to give a second thought. Spider plants, money plants, African violets, and bamboo are all safe to keep near pets—and those are just a few! We've gathered some of our favorites, but the ASPCA has a full list of pet-friendly greenery, which you can sort by whether you have a dog, cat, or even a horse. It also lists toxic plants to avoid for all three if you're worried about what's in your backyard—or the plants you already own. And if you do currently own any toxic plants but don't want to toss them, consider gifting them to a friend or ensuring you place them in a spot your pet absolutely can't access.
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Kelly Allen is the current Associate Editor at House Beautiful, where she covers design, pop culture, and travel for digital and the print magazine. She’s been with the team for nearly three years, attending industry events and covering a range of topics. When she’s not watching every new TV show and movie, she’s browsing vintage home stores, admiring hotel interiors, and wandering around New York City. She previously worked for Delish and Cosmopolitan. Follow her on Instagram.
