31 Cat-Friendly Plants That Are Safe for Your Furry Friend

• Scientific Name: Beaucarnea recurvata
• Height: 6-8 feet
• Sunlight: 6-8 hours direct, daily
• Water: 1x/week

The Ponytail Palm brings a slice of paradise into your living room. Resembling a palm tree, this is a cat-friendly plant that’s easy to care for. When you first bring it home, start by watering it two to three times a week. As it matures, you can scale it back to once a week, but always be sure to keep the soil moist and well-drained. If needed, you can use a palm-specific fertilizer. Also referred to as the “elephant foot palm” for its texture resembling the animal’s skin, the Ponytail Palm is a great container plant, suitable for sitting on tables and countertops.

• Scientific Name: Tillandsia varieties
• Height: 2 inches
• Sunlight: Filtered,
• Water: soak for 20 minutes 1x/week

If you don’t have air plants yet, you’re missing out. They look delicate but are easy to take care of—just soak them in water every week or two. Experiment with terrariums, hanging planters, and tablescapes to elevate your space.

• Scientific Name: Calathea orbifolia
• Height: 2 feet
• Sunlight: Bright, indirect
• Water: 1-2 weeks

This cat-friendly plant is non-toxic and will put on a little show. The leaves of the Calathea Prayer Plant will follow sunlight, fanning out during the day and closing at night, like a pair of hands. To thrive, it needs moist soil and watering every one to two weeks, plus bright, indirect light.

• Scientific Name: Calathea lancifolia
• Height: 12-15 inches
• Sunlight: Indirect to low
• Water: Enough to keep soil moist

The Calathea family is all about texture and vibrancy. The rattlesnake plant’s crinkly leaves make it a unique addition to your indoor garden and its low-maintenance factor makes it a nice addition to your schedule. It craves humidity (but will also be fine without it). To best care for it, place your plant in indirect or low light and give it enough water to keep the soil moist.

• Scientific Name: Calathea makoyana
• Height: 2 feet
• Sunlight: Low to medium indirect light
• Water: Enough to keep soil moist

Noticing a pattern here? Calathea plants check all the necessary boxes: non-toxic to cat and air-purifying with a unique look and feel. This just may be our new favorite plant. Be sure to place it in an area of your home that has indirect light and give it enough water to keep the soil moist.

• Scientific Name: Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, Hibiscus syriacus
• Height: 3-10 feet
• Sunlight: Full
• Water: Daily, or enough to keep soil moist

These beauties have big personalities and about 1,000 colorful options (yep). They also work well both indoors and out, especially if you want to attract hummingbirds or butterflies. When watering, you want to drench this plant, but scale back when the plant is dormant. You should also let the topsoil dry before watering again. Keep this cat-friendly plant in full sun with a good amount of humidity—the bathroom is an ideal indoor spot.

• Scientific Name: Guzmania lingulata
• Height: 14-18 inches
• Sunlight: Indirect
• Water: When the soil is dry 2 inches down

For a plant that’s known for being drought-tolerant, the Bromeliad blooms gorgeous flowers and long leaves. This one loves sunlight and can grow up to 20 inches tall, though there are smaller varieties available. Keep an eye on the soil and be sure to water the plant when you notice the topsoil getting dry. It also loves the humidity, so if you have a sunny bathroom, this plant is an ideal decoration.

• Scientific Name: Peperomia clusiifolia
• Height: 12 inches
• Sunlight: Indirect
• Water: 1-2 weeks

Unassuming in size, the Peperomia Ginny is super resilient and can survive in many different climates making it a great plant for beginners. It’s non-toxic and does best in indirect light. Browning leaves indicates burning, so if you notice this, move your plant away from the light source. Alternatively, the Peperomia Ginny can get needed rays via florescent or LED grow lights. Water every one to two weeks, or when the soil feels dry a couple inches down. Be careful to avoid over-watering—sitting water will lead to root rot.

• Scientific Name: Impatiens varieties
• Height: 8-15 inches
• Sunlight: Indirect
• Water: Daily

Charmingly known as Touch-Me-Not, impatiens are excellent balcony, walkway and window box plants. They offer bright, cheerful colors and, as long as they get plenty of water, will bloom continuously. They are easy to grow from seeds and will need moist, well-drained soil to thrive. If you choose this route, it will take about two weeks for the seedlings to sprout. Water daily, especially in hot weather.

• Scientific Name: Platycerium bifurcatum
• Height: 2-3 feet
• Sunlight: Partial, indirect
• Water: Every 1-2 weeks

Some ferns are non-toxic to cats and dogs, while others could be poisonous. That’s why it’s important to check both the common name (like Staghorn Fern) and the scientific name (like Platycerium bifurcatum). In terms of maintenance, these guys are pretty easy going—with enough sunlight and water every one to two weeks, these wavy ferns will thrive.

• Scientific Name: Nephrolepis exaltata
• Height: 2-3 feet
• Sunlight: Partial
• Water: Weekly

The Boston fern is like the BFF you can call at 2 a.m., no questions asked, and they’ll talk as long as you need. In a word: reliable. This cat-friendly plant loves warm, humid environments and avoids temperature extremes. Misting is essential if you live in a dry region, and the soil should be lightly moist but not soggy.

• Scientific Name: Asplenium nidus
• Height: 3-5 feet tall
• Sunlight: Partial, indirect
• Water: Enough to keep the soil moist

This crimpy-leaved fern loves indirect sunlight, humidity and water. It almost looks like a pointier, fancier version of kale, except it won’t harm your cat if she takes a nibble. To best care for this plant, keep it in indirect light and make sure the soil is moist but not soggy. Avoid watering at the center as it may cause mold.

• Scientific Name: Nephrolepis obliterata
• Height: 2-3 feet
• Sunlight: Partial, indirect
• Water: Up to 3x/week

Like royalty, it looks as though the Kimberly Queen Fern is wearing a crown. Unlike royalty, this princess is low maintenance and prefers staying out of the spotlight (i.e., bright sunshine). The only thing to keep tabs on is the water—if you have hard water (lots of salt, fluorine, chlorine), you may need to switch to filtered when watering the fern. Additionally, make sure that the soil is well-drained but doesn’t dry out.

• Scientific Name: Echeveria lilacina
• Height: 2-24 inches
• Sunlight: full sun
• Water: Every 7-10 days

If you’re a succulent lover and a cat parent, steer clear of jade and aloe. Instead, stock up on the blue-grey hued Echeveria, which is also a great choice for new plant parents, as it is low-maintenance. It requires a cup of water approximately every seven to ten days, but it’s always best to err on the side of underwatering, as rot root is prevalent when the succulent is overwatered. You’ll know the plant is thirsty if the leaves begin to wrinkle. Make sure that it’s in a sunny location, too, as lack of sunlight will make your plant leggy.

• Scientific Name: Haworthiopsis attenuata
• Height: 3-5 inches
• Sunlight: Full to partial
• Water: When top inch of soil is dry

These spiky, cacti-looking monsters are perfect alternatives to aloe plants. And they can also go for several weeks without water in case you’re the type of person who tends to forget to take care of your greenery (raises hand). This cat-friendly plant needs a bright (but not direct) light source and good drainage. Water it when the top inch of soil turns dry, but don’t let the water sit in the plant—this will lead to rot.

• Scientific Name: Chlorophytum comosum
• Height: 1-2 feet
• Sunlight: Partial, indirect
• Water: Enough to keep soil lightly moist

Spider plants are the gifts that keep on giving. If they grow too big for their planters and spill over the sides, simply trim them and replant the new clippings. Voila! More plants. To care for a spider plant, be careful of overwatering as it is susceptible to root rot. It prefers distilled and rainwater because it is sensitive to chlorine and fluoride. Pot in loose, well-draining soil and keep in gentle, indirect light.

• Scientific Name: Chamaedorea seifrizii
• Height: 4-12 feet
• Sunlight: Partial, indirect
• Water: When top third of soil feels dry

If you’re looking for a luscious plant that can take up a lot of space, look no further. Bamboo Palms grow up to around twelve feet tall and can turn a bland space into a miniature jungle. It thrives in moist, humid environments, but doesn’t tolerate sitting water well, which leads to root rot. Be sure to give the palm good drainage, and water it when the top third of the soil is dry.

• Scientific Name: Chamaedorea elegans
• Height: 2-6 feet
• Sunlight: Bright, indirect
• Water: When top inch of soil is dry

Parlor Palms only grow up to two feet tall, but these impressive plants feel much larger. They’re like miniature explosions of greenery—and a great compromise between a large bamboo palm and a tiny spider plant. The palm is relatively easy-going but be sure not to waterlog it. Instead, aim for an even moisture level in the soil. You’ll know it’s thirsty if the leaves start to turn yellow.

• Scientific Name: Ravenea rivularis
• Height: 10-100 feet
• Sunlight: Partial
• Water: Enough to keep soil evenly moist

Bow down to the Majesty Palm, a palm from Madagascar that grows several feet tall. Its fronds are also concentrated towards the top of the plant, so even though it’s safe for cats, they’ll have trouble reaching up that high if they want to snack. As the name might suggest, the Majesty Palm is a little bit picky—the lower leaves will begin to drop off if it doesn’t have enough water and will bleach or stretch if lacking adequate light.

• Scientific Name: Maranta leuconeura
• Height: 6-12 inches
• Sunlight: Partial, indirect
• Water: Whenever topsoil is dry

Ideal in low to bright indirect sunlight, these striped plants add heaps of personality to a space. In terms of care, don’t ignore them, but don’t hover; they like their independence. Always keep the topsoil moist—this plant doesn’t tolerate drought, though you need to avoid sitting water because it can cause fungal issues. You’ll know if you have an over- or under-watering problem because the plant’s leaves will turn yellow and begin to fall.

• Scientific Name: Pachira aquatica
• Height: 6-8 feet
• Sunlight: Bright, indirect
• Water: When soil is dry

Money doesn’t grow on trees, but this is the next best thing. This cat-friendly plant is adorable, stands several feet tall, and has air-purifying properties. If you tend to overwater plants, this one will thrive under your care, as it requires deep watering. (But it also needs good drainage.) It will do well in any amount of indirect light, but the more light it receives, the faster it will grow.

• Scientific Name: Hypoestes phyllostachya
• Height: 1-2 feet
• Sunlight: Partial
• Water: When the topsoil is dry

Not only is the Polka Dot Plant non-toxic for your four-legged roommate, but it’s also pretty to look at. Keep its soil moist, make sure it gets bright to medium light and watch it bloom into a beautiful mound.

• Scientific Name: Trachycarpus fortunei
• Height: 30-50 feet
• Sunlight: Full to partial
• Water: Enough to keep soil lightly moist

Talk about a tall drink of water! This stunner can grow up to eight feet tall but is less cumbersome than the Bamboo Palm. It’s native to tropical climates, so care for it accordingly. The Chinese Palm Plant needs direct sunlight but when hot, shade is preferable. Keep the soil lightly moist and do not overwater at the risk of root rot. More mature plants have a little drought tolerance but be generous with water in hot weather. On the other hand, in colder weather, you can let the soil dry out before watering, as the plant is dormant.

• Scientific Name: Rosa varieties
• Height: see specific variety
• Sunlight: see specific variety
• Water: see specific variety

If you’re considering giving a friend (or yourself) a congratulatory bouquet, you can’t go wrong with roses. Non-toxic to both cats and dogs, it’s a safer option than lilies or daisies. With so many types of roses in the Rosa family (including Albertine, Adelaide d'Orléans and Aloha), be sure to research the specific best care practices for your selected variety.

• Scientific Name: Helianthus annuus
• Height: 3-10 feet
• Sunlight: Full
• Water: Every 3-5 days

Nothing says “happiness” like a bouquet of sunflowers on the dining room table. Even a single yellow blossom can improve a space. (Just be sure you’re buying the real deal and not a daisies in sheep’s clothing. Daisies are toxic to kitties.) True to their name, this plant requires full sun, but otherwise is a low-maintenance flower. Allow one to two inches of topsoil to dry between waterings, but also take your queue from the flower. (Drooping means they’re thirsty.) This plant is tolerant of all soil types but will really shine in well-draining soil rich in organic materials.

• Scientific Name: Rhapis excelsa
• Height: 6-15 feet
• Sunlight: Partial, indirect
• Water: When first inch of topsoil is dry

It may be lanky in structure, but don’t sleep on the Rhapis Palm. This particular houseplant is not only easy to take care of, but it can also remove harmful pollutants in the air. To care for it, make sure there is ample drainage and that the potting soil is made specifically for this palm. It is drought tolerant once mature. A good rule of thumb is to water when the first inch of topsoil feels dry during spring and summer. In the winter and fall, you can wait until the first two inches feel dry before giving it water.

• Scientific Name: Aspidistra elatior
• Height: 2-3 feet
• Sunlight: Partial, indirect
• Water: When soil feels dry

This is perhaps the perfect house plant for a cat owner. It requires very little attention (in fact, its name alludes to how much neglect it can handle), adds subtle personality to a room and requires an occasional grooming sesh (wiping down the large green leaves). Remind you of anyone you know? When caring for it, you want to give established plants deep watering. However, avoid soggy soil, which leads to root rot. This cat-friendly plant has a little drought tolerance, but a good rule is if you stick your finger in the dirt and it’s dry, it’s time to pour it a drink.

• Scientific Name: Peperomia obtusifolia
• Height: up to 12 inches
• Sunlight: Partial
• Water: Every 1-2 weeks

Not only is the American rubber plant non-toxic to felines, but it can remove toxins from the air. When shopping, be sure to go with the American version, rather than the Indian Rubber Plant, which is actually part of the fig family. To thrive, this cat-friendly plant requires indirect light, as being in full sun can burn the leaves. You should also err on the side of underwatering, as it doesn’t like standing water. You can wait until the first few inches of topsoil are dry before tipping the watering can.

• Scientific Name: Epiphyllum anguliger
• Height: 6 inches
• Sunlight: Partial
• Water: Regularly

Also known as Zig Zag cactus, this plant gets its name from the funky shape of its leaves. Fishbone cacti flourish in moist conditions, so pop them in your bathroom or kitchen where they can bask in any steam that’s generated. They also need more water than your average desert cactus and are sensitive to hard water. Give them a drink when you notice the top two or three inches of soil have gone dry and use distilled water if necessary.

• Scientific Name: Peperomia argyreia
• Height: 12 inches
• Sunlight: Partial, indirect
• Water:

Oval-shaped, with dark-green striped leaves and red stems, this plant resembles a watermelon to the tee. While it won’t bear fruit for your home, it’s non-toxic to your cat and it can remove toxins from the air. This cat-friendly plant can be a little tempermental, sensitive to over- or under-watering. Let the first two inches of soil dry, and then give it a good dousing. Be sure to also keep it out of direct sunlight, lest the leaves start to burn.

• Scientific Name: Puya alpestris
• Height: Up to 4 feet
• Sunlight: Full to partial
• Water: 1x/week

For a little bit of pizazz, pick up a Sapphire Tower Bromeliad. With richly colored rosettes and textured leaves, it’s sure to garner compliments. Be sure to plant it in well-draining soil and give it plenty of sun. The Sapphire Tower is drought tolerant but welcomes regular watering.