Pet-Friendly Plants at Willow: Pretty Plants Your Pets Can Live With

If you’re a plant lover with a curious cat, a snack-happy dog, or a pet who seems determined to taste-test every new thing you bring home, you’ve probably asked yourself:

“Is this plant actually safe for my pet?”

It’s a really good question—and one we hear often at Willow Greenhouse.

We love our plants, but we also love our pets. In fact, you may have met our resident greenhouse cats, Midnight and Twinkletoes, while wandering around Willow. So when it comes to bringing plants into a home with furry family members, we believe it’s worth taking a few extra minutes to understand what you’re buying.

The good news? Having pets doesn’t mean you have to give up your houseplant collection! There are plenty of beautiful plants that can coexist happily with your four-legged friends.

What Makes a Plant Unsafe for Pets?

When we talk about a plant being “toxic,” we’re usually referring to naturally occurring compounds within the plant that can cause an adverse reaction if an animal eats part of it.

Some plants contain compounds that can irritate the mouth and digestive system. Others can cause more serious problems if a large enough amount is consumed.

The important thing to remember is that “toxic” doesn’t necessarily mean that simply having the plant in your home will hurt your pet. In many cases, the concern is what happens if your pet actually chews on or eats the plant.

And that’s where knowing your pet comes in.

A plant that sits untouched on a high shelf may be perfectly manageable in one home. In another home, where your cat considers every hanging basket a personal salad bar, it might be a completely different story.

Some Common Warning Signs

If a pet has eaten a plant that isn’t safe for them, symptoms can vary depending on the plant and how much was consumed.

Some common signs of plant-related irritation or poisoning can include:

• Drooling or excessive salivation
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Pawing at the mouth
• Difficulty swallowing
• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy
• Changes in behavior

More serious symptoms can occur with certain plants.

If you suspect your pet has eaten a potentially toxic plant, don’t wait for symptoms to appear. Contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control service for guidance, and be prepared to provide the name or a photo of the plant if possible.

So, What Plants Are Pet Friendly?

Thankfully, there are lots of options!

Some popular pet-friendly houseplants include:

Spider Plants

Spider plants are a classic for a reason. They’re relatively easy to grow, look great in hanging baskets, and are considered non-toxic to both cats and dogs. They’re also excellent for anyone who occasionally forgets to water their plants. We’re not judging.

Parlor Palms

Want something with a tropical look? Parlor palms are a great choice for pet-friendly homes. They bring a little vacation feeling indoors without being a major concern for curious cats and dogs.

Boston Ferns

Boston ferns are another popular choice for homes with pets. Their lush, feathery foliage makes them especially beautiful in hanging baskets—although your cat may still decide the basket belongs to them.

Calatheas

Calatheas are known for their gorgeous patterned leaves and are considered pet-friendly. They’re a fun option if you want something a little more interesting than a basic green houseplant. Just keep in mind that calatheas can be a little particular about their growing conditions. Safe for pets? Yes. Completely carefree? Not exactly.

Peperomias

Peperomias come in an amazing variety of shapes, colors, and textures, and many popular varieties are considered non-toxic to cats and dogs. They’re a great option if you want a collection with some variety without sacrificing pet safety.

Prayer Plants

Prayer plants are another beautiful option for pet-friendly households. Their colorful, patterned foliage makes them stand out, and their interesting leaf movement adds a little extra personality.

A Quick Note About “Pet Safe”

When you see a plant labeled “pet safe” or “non-toxic,” that doesn’t necessarily mean your pet should be encouraged to eat it.

Even plants considered non-toxic can cause stomach upset if your pet eats a large amount. Think of it like eating something that isn’t poisonous but definitely isn’t part of your normal diet.

A plant-friendly pet is still a pet who should probably stick to their regular food.

And remember: every animal is different. Some pets can nibble a leaf without any issue, while another may have a more sensitive stomach.

What About Plants That Aren’t Pet Safe?

There are plenty of popular houseplants that contain compounds that can be harmful to cats and dogs.

Some common examples include many types of lilies, sago palms, oleander, and certain plants in the philodendron family. The severity of the risk varies dramatically from plant to plant.

This is one reason we don’t recommend relying on a quick glance at a plant’s common name. Plant names can be confusing, and two plants that look similar may have completely different safety profiles.

When in doubt, ask us!

That’s one of the reasons we’re here.

If you’re shopping for a houseplant and have pets at home, let one of our team members know. We can help you look for options that fit your space, your growing conditions, and your furry roommates.

Think About Placement, Too

Pet-friendly plants aren’t your only option.

Sometimes, you can enjoy plants that aren’t considered pet-safe by simply keeping them completely inaccessible to your animals. High shelves, enclosed plant cabinets, hanging planters, and rooms your pets don’t have access to can all help create separation.

But be realistic about your pet’s abilities.

If your cat can somehow reach the top of the refrigerator, a six-foot bookshelf may not be much of a deterrent. And if your dog is a professional counter surfer, you may need a different strategy.

You know your pet best.

Stop by Willow and Let’s Find the Right Plants for Your Home

We believe plants should fit into your life—not make your life more stressful.

Whether you’re looking for a trailing plant for your living room, something colorful for your kitchen windowsill, a tropical statement plant, or a new addition to your growing houseplant collection, we’re happy to help you find the right fit.

And if your home includes a curious cat, an adventurous dog, or any other plant-loving family member, tell us! We’ll help you explore pet-friendly options and talk through what to look for when choosing plants. Because at the end of the day, we want your home to be filled with things you love—including your plants and your pets.

Come visit us at Willow Greenhouse and let’s find your next plant—one that makes both you and your furry friends happy.