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View Full Version : So what houseplants are NOT poisonous to cats?


RedMare01
Sep. 27, 2009, 10:33 PM
I have two indoor cats. I would like a houseplant or two. But after searching for plants that are not toxic to cats, it seems like there aren't any? Seriously, I found a list on the internet, and I think every plant known to man was on it. :lol:

Specifically, I have a corn plant (the decorative kind) that's outside right now, would love to bring it in for the winter. But not if it means the cats will be poisoned and need emergency vet care (because, yes, they are they cats that will be chowing down as soon as it comes through the door). I also gave my MIL a ficus tree a year ago because I read they were poisonous to cats and I didn't want to bring it in for the winter (she did keep it indoors, and has a cat, and the cat is fine. But he's an odd cat, and probably hasn't messed with it much...or tried it for breakfast)....

So, are either of these plants suitable for a house with cats? If not are there ANY that are?

Caitlin

Guin
Sep. 28, 2009, 06:57 AM
If you have a lot of sun, you could go with cacti. ;) Seriously, I believe that spider plants are fine. Also geraniums.

Roan
Sep. 28, 2009, 07:11 AM
Cacti. Heh. Personally I will never have another cactus in a house where there is a cat.

A few years ago, while I was in the bathroom, my old American Bobtail decided that Mr. Cactus would be a fun thing to play with. She knocked the whole thing out of its pot and was playing with it on the floor. I came out of the bathroom and STEPPED on the cactus.

It took a trip to the Dr, who referred me to a podiatrist, to get the needles out of my foot. The one the podiatrist dug out was at least 1" long. Now, years later, I think there are still some pieces in there. I can feel them sometimes.

Eileen

Zu Zu
Sep. 28, 2009, 08:50 AM
I have come to the conclusion that - plastic plants are better for me :lol: LOL as well as my cats -:yes:--they make some really nice ones now - I think you will be pleased - that way you can have whichever type you like to look at :D AND NO WATERING !!!

Phlash's Mom
Sep. 28, 2009, 08:57 AM
Get some cat nip plants! >.^^.<
:lol:

Spooks
Sep. 28, 2009, 09:07 AM
I have all kinds of house plants. My cat does not touch them. If your place is sunny you can get a jade plant (very low maintenance) and for shade you can get peace lilies (also low maintenance). I think what will really make your cats happy, and keep them from eating your plants, is to give them a little pot of cat grass. Cats naturally eat grass to help digestion, and if they don't have access to grass they may turn to whatever plant is handy. You can get packets of cat grass seeds at the pet store, and just plant a new pot every few weeks.

dressagetraks
Sep. 28, 2009, 09:24 AM
I have houseplants, and my cats leave them alone - and I do have some frisky and exploratory cats. What I've done is:

1. Provide cat grass.
2. Pepper each plant liberally every week. This really turns the cats off.
3. Above have worked, but if they had not, I would have tried a SSCAT or something like that. You put it next to a plant or other undesirable, and it hisses and blows air at your cat when cat approaches.

dmalbone
Sep. 28, 2009, 12:30 PM
There are lots of plants that are non-toxic to cats so I urge you to please not use toxic ones. Some of them would only take a bite to kill your cat. Is it really worth it??? On the other hand, if you can find documentation that it's only a minor irritant (which would still make it classed in the toxic category) then that's one I would personally use but with caution. http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control/plants/?plant_toxicity=non-toxic-to-cats

I should add- some that I have right now are Wandering Jew, African Violets (love my violets), Burros Tail, Angel's Tears, and a rubber plant

clint
Sep. 28, 2009, 12:46 PM
I have all kinds of house plants. My cat does not touch them. If your place is sunny you can get a jade plant (very low maintenance) and for shade you can get peace lilies (also low maintenance). I think what will really make your cats happy, and keep them from eating your plants, is to give them a little pot of cat grass. Cats naturally eat grass to help digestion, and if they don't have access to grass they may turn to whatever plant is handy. You can get packets of cat grass seeds at the pet store, and just plant a new pot every few weeks.

Peace lillies are toxic to cats.

Cats love pots of cat grass. They are thrilled whenever I bring them some, and it is safe.