5 Toxic Houseplants to Keep Away from Your Pets

Are you thinking of getting new houseplants? We don’t blame you – we have countless plants too! It’s a great way to liven up your space. But if you have pets, you might want to reconsider your options. Some popular house plants are toxic to animals, with effects that range from mild irritation to severe health problems!

Toxic Houseplants

We know what you’re thinking – what?! Even pothos?! Everyone has pothos!

Thankfully, there are measures you could take if you already have these plants at home.

Precautionary Measures

  • Research the plants you already have. Are they toxic, or pet-safe? Consult reliable sources such as the ASPCA for plant toxicity information.  
  • Consider placing your (toxic or non-toxic) plants somewhere pets can’t reach, minimizing contact. It’s a win-win situation: no ruined plants for you, and no upset tummy for your pet!
  • Monitor your pets around plants. Are they too curious? Perhaps a distraction could help – a toy that looks like a plant or a chicken-shaped squeaky toy; whatever works.

Non-toxic Houseplants

In addition to taking precautions, pet owners also do well to consider non-toxic alternatives for their houseplants. There are many beautiful and safe plants to choose from that will not harm your pets.

  • Spider Plant: This hardy plant is safe for both cats and dogs. It’s also known for its ability to thrive in various light conditions.
  • Boston Fern: Also called Sword Fern, this plant is non-toxic and can be a lush addition to any home, though it requires humidity,
  • African Violet: A popular flowering houseplant that is safe for pets and thrives in moderate light and humidity.
  • Peperomia: These easy-to-care-for plants come in various textures and colors, making them a delightful choice that is non-toxic to pets.
  • Orchids (Phalaenopsis): Many varieties of orchids are safe for pets and add a touch of elegance to home décor.

Conclusion

Some houseplants are toxic to our pets – but that doesn’t mean we need to throw them all out the window! There are steps we can take to ensure our pet’s health and safety. By being aware of toxic and non-toxic plants, pet owners can create a beautiful and safe indoor environment for their furry companions. More power to hoolamans! 

This article is not intended to be a replacement for veterinary advice. This article’s goal is to raise awareness of a potentially life-threatening health problem that your beloved pet may have already encountered, is now dealing with, or may face in the future. We care for your animals as much as we care for ours at Best Friends Furever Sanctuary.

Best Friends Furever Sanctuary

We appreciate you stopping by our site and hope you find our content helpful.

Best Friends Furever Sanctuary is the Philippines’ first registered retirement home for rehabilitated companion animals. BFFS is not your typical rescue facility. BFFS was founded so that senior and specially-abled animals could age with grace and dignity under the care of senior volunteers of The Philippine Animal Welfare Society.

As a charity, we rely on donations to support our work of caring for our senior and specially-abled animals. We accept donations in cash and in-kind. We also have a program called “Become a BFF,” wherein you can sponsor the needs of one or more animals by donating at least P300 a month.

For more information on how you can help, get in touch with us at 0917 333 7670 or [email protected]. You may also visit us at Paily Farm, Purok 3 Upland, Brgy. Sto Niño, Magalang Pampanga 2011.

Let’s continue to give these animals their furever home.

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