Reviewed on March 19, 2020, by Dr. Jennifer Grota, DVM
Did you know that certain plants and flowers can actually be dangerous for your cat?
“While any plant material can cause mild stomach upset, some plants are much more dangerous,” says Tina Wismer, medical director at the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center.
It’s also important for cat parents to know that some plants and flowers that are relatively safe for dogs can be deadly for cats. “Members of the Lilium (true lilies) or Hemerocallis (day lilies) can cause kidney failure in cats, but only mild stomach upset in dogs,” says Wismer.
If you’re considering an eco-conscious revamp of your home décor, check this list to find out which flowers and houseplants are safe for cats.
Flowers That Are Safe for Cats
Avoid bringing dangerous flowers into your home with this list of safe flowers for cats:
- Alstroemeria
- Asters
- Freesia
- Gerber Daisies
- Liatris
- Lisianthus
- Orchid
- Roses
- Snapdragon
- Statice
- Sunflowers
- Wax Flower (Madagascar Jasmine)
Air-Purifying Plants That Are Safe for Cats
Houseplants cleanse the air we breathe from toxins found in many household products—formaldehyde, benzene, and carbon monoxide, just to name a few.
Here are some air-purifying plants that are also safe for cats:
- Areca Palm
- Bamboo
- Basil
- Boston Fern
- Cilantro
- Dill
- Dwarf Date Palm
- Friendship Plant
- Hens and Chicks
- Lady Palm
- Lemon Balm
- Old Man Cactus
- Painted Lady
- Reed Palm
- Rosemary
- Sage
- Shrimp Cactus
- Spider Plant (Spider Ivy)
- Venus Flytrap
- Zebra Haworthia
Even Safe Plants Can Pose Dangers to Cats
Wismer suggests that you keep these plants and flowers out of reach of curious cats even though they are considered safe, because there are other dangers to watch out for.
Most cut flowers come with a powdered flower food to keep them fresh, and this can be toxic to cats. Even the vases could pose a problem. “Cats especially like to drink from vases, so make sure the cat cannot overturn heavy vases and hurt themselves,” Wismer adds. “Breakable vases can also be a hazard for your pets…and you, when you have to pick up the pieces.”
Karen Lawrence, director of The CFA Foundation and manager of the Feline Historical Museum, suggests using hanging planters as a way to keep plants out of the reach of your pets.
What to Do If Your Cat Eats a Plant That Might Be Poisonous
If your cat nibbled on a flower or plant, and you are unsure whether it may be toxic, call your emergency vet, or the Pet Poison Helpline at 855-764-7661, or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435.
You should call even if you just suspect that your cat might have eaten part of a plant or flower.
By: Cheryl Lock