Pet-safe houseplant swaps

Houseplants are more popular than ever and if you have pets then it’s important to know which are safe and which need to be kept out of reach or not in the house at all, as those which are toxic can have serious consequences, including being fatal. Even if plants are kept out of reach, be sure to check often for fallen leaves.

Fortunately, there are plenty of pet-safe plants you can own instead of toxic ones, although remember any plant consumed in large quantities can cause gastrointestinal upset. The ASPCA has a great database if you want to check if any of your plants are a risk to your pets, or research some new plant options. There are also plant identification groups on Facebook if you are not sure what plant you have at home, especially as labels are often wrong or non-specific.

Toxic plant – Lilies Lilies are incredibly poisonous to cats, causing kidney failure and potentially death if ingested. A small amount can be toxic; cats can develop symptoms just from licking the pollen from their fur or sipping at water from the vase. We recommend lilies are not kept in any home with a cat, all too often we see cases of poisoning where owners think flowers are out of reach only for acrobatic cats to test the theory!
	Safe swap – Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera) Perfect to add a splash of colour, a lovely little plant with pink flowers that blooms in the winter months, and it’s non-toxic to pets!

Toxic plant – Snake Plant (Sanseviera trifasciata) One of the easiest houseplants to care for, you might even have one sitting in your kitchen. These plants can be poisonous to pets if ingested due to the high levels of calcium oxalate they contain which can cause drooling, vomiting and burns to the mouth. A real risk if you pet manages to get hold of it.
	Safe swap – Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum) The humble spider plant is almost unkillable and we think a bit underrated. Not only are they not toxic to pets, but they also act as great air purifiers. You can find them in most garden centres or supermarkets, or even ask online to see if anyone has any spider plant babies to give away which are very easy to propagate.

Toxic plant – Dragon Tree (Dracaena spp.) These plants contain chemical compounds called saponins which can cause vomiting, drooling and depression if ingested. As these can be quite tall plants and are often placed at ground level, they can be a risk in a house with pets.
	Safe swap – Money Tree (Pachira aquatica) If you want a mini tree then this is the pet safe option! Not toxic if ingested, and also pretty resilient if knocked over by a playful cat or a swishy dog tail!

Toxic plant – Asparagus Fern (Asparagus densiflorus cv sprengeri) Often found in hanging baskets, these plants can cause skin irritation if your pet brushes against them and the berries can cause gastrointestinal upset if eaten.
	Safe swap – Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exalta bostoniensis) An easy to care for fern with beautiful green leaves which works well in a pot or basket.

Toxic plant – Dumb Cane (Dieffenbachia) A popular office plant, the Dumb Cane’s leaves and sap can cause significant oral irritation, swelling of the tongue and throat and vomiting if ingested. Although humans are less inclined to try and nibble on their houseplants, it can cause temporary paralysis of the mouth and throat in humans, just to demonstrate how dangerous it can be, so it’s also worth keeping all toxic plants away from children.
	Safe swap – Prayer Plant (Calathea insignis) A pet-safe swap with the most gorgeous leaves, they come in a few different colours. They require lots of water but they curl their leaves to let you know when they’re thirsty before springing back to life!

Toxic plant – Swiss Cheese Plant (Monstera deliciosa) Much like snake plants, Monstera plants contain insoluble calcium oxalates which can cause oral irritation, burning to the mouth and vomiting.
	Safe swap – Parlour Palm (Chamaedorea elegans) Add a tropical vibe with this non-toxic palm which is easy to care for and gives dramatic fluffy foliage.