Pet-Safe Plants Part 2: The Tale of Houseplants and Happy Pets

You finally bring home that gorgeous fiddle leaf fig you've been eyeing for weeks! After placing it lovingly in a sunlit corner, you step back to admire your growing indoor jungle... and within minutes, your dog has decided it’s his new chew toy. Or maybe your cat launched herself onto the bookshelf to inspect it with her usual flair for drama. Sound familiar?

If you’ve ever found yourself in the middle of a standoff between your leafy greens and your curious fur babies, you’re not alone. But here’s the good news—your home can be both lush and pet-safe. In Part 1, we rounded up some of our favorite non-toxic plants, and now we’re back with even more green friends that play nice with your four-legged roommates.

Whether your dog’s got a taste for tropical foliage or your cat thinks every plant is a personal jungle gym, these picks are stylish, low-fuss, and 100% safe.

7 More Pet-Safe Plants to Love

Staghorn Fern (Platycerium spp.):

These wild-looking ferns are like wall-mounted art pieces straight from nature. Since they don’t sit in traditional pots, they’re perfect for keeping out of paw’s reach—and yes, they’re completely non-toxic to pets.

 Photo credit: Local Loco Singapore (IG @locallocosg)

Prayer Plant (Maranta leuconeura):

This plant is truly a marvel to behold. Its patterned leaves fold up at night, resembling praying hands. It's a completely safe option for your pets and thrives in indirect light with high humidity – a perfect addition to your bathroom oasis.

Peperomia (Peperomia spp.):

If you're looking for a low-maintenance houseplant with a variety of leaf shapes and colors, Peperomia is your answer. It's non-toxic to cats and dogs and comes in many varieties, so you can find the perfect fit for your home's aesthetic.

African Violet (Saintpaulia spp.):

These vibrant flowering plants are not only safe for your pets but also add a pop of color to any room. They're low-maintenance and thrive in low-light conditions – perfect for those cozy corners.

Photo credit: NParks

Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera spp.):

Unlike some other cacti varieties, the Christmas Cactus is completely safe for your pets. It blooms beautiful pink, red, or white flowers around the holiday season and thrives in indirect light.

Ponytail Palm (Beaucarnea recurvata):

Despite its name, it's not a true palm but a succulent that's entirely safe for your furry friends. It's a stylish, low-maintenance plant that can thrive indoors for years to come.

Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior):

This hardy plant lives up to its name. It thrives in low-light conditions, requires minimal care, and is non-toxic to pets – the perfect choice for busy pet owners and curious animals alike.

Caring for Your Pet-Friendly Plants

Even if your plants are non-toxic, it’s still a good idea to set a few ground rules—especially if you’ve got a serial leaf-muncher on your hands.

• Hang ‘em high: Consider wall-mounted ferns or hanging planters to keep temptation out of reach.

• Train those paws: Positive reinforcement goes a long way in teaching your pets that your plants aren’t toys.

• Offer a distraction: Pet grass or catnip can give your furballs a safe outlet for their chewing or sniffing instincts.

Conclusion: A Green Oasis for You and Your Pet

So, there you have it – a collection of plants that will not only beautify your home but also coexist peacefully with your furry family members. No more late-night worries about whether your pet has nibbled on something dangerous. Now, you can have a home filled with happy pets, thriving plants, and peace of mind. It's time to turn your home into a pet-friendly jungle that both you and your pet will love!