Paws-ible Plants: A Guide to Keeping Your Feline Safe and Stylish

Houseplants are a great addition to any home, not only for their aesthetic value, but also for their ability to purify the air and improve overall indoor air quality. However, if you're a cat owner, it's important to be aware that some common houseplants can be toxic to your furry friend.

In this article, we will discuss some popular houseplants that are safe for cats, as well as tips for keeping your feline friends away from potentially harmful plants.

Paws-ible Plants:

First, let's talk about some of the most popular cat-friendly houseplants. Spider plants, also known as Chlorophytum comosum, are a great option for cat owners.

These plants are not only non-toxic to cats, but they also have the ability to purify the air by removing toxins such as formaldehyde and xylene. Other safe options include snake plants, also known as Sansevieria, and herbs like basil, rosemary, and thyme. These plants are also non-toxic to cats and have air-purifying properties.

As you can see, there are a number of great looking plants that can benefit you and your feline friends! 

It's also important to note that not all parts of a plant may be toxic to cats. For example, the leaves of the popular dieffenbachia plant can be toxic to cats, but the stem and roots are not. So, if you're not sure about a specific plant, it's best to research it or consult with a veterinarian.

 The Im-paws-ible Options:

Although certain houseplants are popular for their ability to improve air quality and bring life into a room, some of the most common plants can be toxic to cats. Most notably, lilies and philodendrons should be avoided as they contain toxins that can cause serious health issues for cats if ingested.

Other popular plants like aloe vera, English ivy, peace lily and pothos can also cause digestive issues or skin irritation in animals. Before bringing home any houseplant, it’s important to research if adding that plant to your home could put your cat in harm’s way.

Now that we've covered some popular cat-friendly and not-so-friendly houseplants, let's talk about how to keep your feline friends away from potentially harmful plants.

One of the easiest ways to do this is to simply keep the plants out of reach. This can be done by placing the plants on high shelves or in hanging baskets. Another option is to use a deterrent spray, which can be made by mixing water and a few drops of Neem Bliss Oil. This spray can be used to coat the leaves of your plants, and the strong smell will likely deter most cats from getting too close.

Another option is to create a designated "cat-free" zone in your home. This can be done by using baby gates or other barriers to keep your cats out of certain rooms or areas where you have placed potentially harmful plants. It's also a good idea to educate yourself on which plants are toxic to cats, so you can keep them out of your home altogether.

The Tail of this tale...

In conclusion, houseplants are a great addition to any home, but it's important to be aware that some common plants can be toxic to cats. 

If you're not sure about a specific plant, it's best to research it or consult with a veterinarian. Finding the right symbiosis between your Fur and Flora Friends is the key to a happy home! 

Happy Gardening!