Pet-Friendly Houseplants: Safe Greenery for Dogs and Cats

If you’re a plant lover and a pet parent in Central Iowa, you know the struggle, how do you fill your home with beautiful greenery without putting your curious cat or mischievous pup at risk?

At Holub Greenhouses, we hear this question all the time from customers across Story, Boone, Boone, and Marshall counties. The good news? You don’t have to choose between your love of plants and your love of pets. There are plenty of pet-safe houseplants that are both non-toxic and beautiful.

Here’s your go-to guide for keeping your home green and your furry friends safe.

Why Pet Safety Matters with Houseplants

Some of the most popular houseplants, like pothos, peace lilies, and snake plants are unfortunately toxic to cats and dogs. They can cause everything from mild irritation to serious dangerous digestive issues if chewed on or ingested.

Whether your pet is a plant snacker or just too curious for their own good, choosing pet-safe indoor plants is the best way to enjoy your greenery without the worry.

What happens if my pet eats a toxic plant?

Symptoms can include drooling, vomiting, lethargy, or worse. Always consult your vet immediately if you suspect plant poisoning.

Holub’s Favorite Pet-Friendly Houseplants

Here are some staff-approved, pet-safe options you’ll often find in our rotating inventory at Holub Greenhouses:

Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)

• One of the easiest houseplants to grow
  
• Thrives in indirect light
  
• Non-toxic to cats and dogs
  

Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans)

• A great low-light plant that’s safe for pets
  
• Adds a tropical touch to any room
  
• Grows slowly and tolerates a range of conditions
  

Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)

• A humidity-loving, non-toxic fern that thrives in bathrooms and kitchens
  
• Loves bright, indirect light and moist soil
  
• A lush, fluffy look that’s totally pet-approved
  

Calathea (Prayer Plants)

• Gorgeous, patterned foliage
  
• Safe for cats and dogs
  
• Prefers filtered light and higher humidity
  

Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens)

• Another tropical, pet-safe beauty
  
• Great for bright rooms and large containers
  
• Can grow up to 6 feet indoors with care
  

Other Non-Toxic Greenery to Look For

• Peperomia
  
• Baby Rubber Plant
  
• Polka Dot Plant
  
• African Violet
  
• Ponytail Palm
  
• Friendship Plant
  
• Fittonia (Nerve Plant)
  

While many of these plants are available year-round, our inventory is constantly changing—so stop by and ask what’s in stock.

Plants to Avoid If You Have Pets

Unfortunately, not all houseplants are safe. Some popular varieties that can be toxic to cats and dogs include:

• Pothos (Devil’s Ivy)
  
• Peace Lily
  
• Snake Plant
  
• Aloe Vera
  
• Sago Palm
  
• Dieffenbachia
  
• Philodendron
  
• ZZ Plant
  

If you already have some of these in your home, keep them well out of reach or consider gifting them to a plant-loving, pet-free friend.

Tips for Keeping Pets Out of Your Plants

Even with safe plants, here are a few ways to keep both your greenery and your furry friends happy:

• Use hanging planters or high shelves to keep plants away from curious mouths
  
• Distract pets with safe grass like cat grass or wheatgrass if they like to chew greenery
  
• Introduce new plants slowly so your pets have time to adjust
  
• Train with deterrent sprays or use citrus peels around pots—many pets dislike the smell
  

Ask the Experts at Holub Greenhouses

At Holub Greenhouses in Ames, we care about all members of your household—including the furry ones. Our team is happy to help you choose houseplants that fit your space, lighting conditions, and lifestyle without putting your pets at risk.

We frequently stock a variety of pet-safe plants, and if you’re not sure about a plant’s safety, just ask. We’ll point you in the right direction or help you find a safe and stylish alternative.

Whether you’re in Huxley, Gilbert, Nevada, Boone or right here in Ames, we’re your go-to resource for indoor  and outdoor plants, gardening advice, and expert guidance.

Ready to Green Your Space Safely?

Come explore our current selection of pet-friendly houseplants and talk to our friendly, knowledgeable staff. We’ll help you find greenery you and your pets can enjoy together,no vet visits required.

Visit Holub Greenhouses in Ames, Iowa today and grow a healthier, happier home—one leaf at a time.