Best House Plants for Cats – 5 Feline Choices

If you’re seeking a harmonious blend of greenery and feline-friendly bliss, you’ve come to the right place. As proud pet parents, we understand the delight of nurturing our plants and our precious furballs under one roof, hence our best house plants for cats.

We’ve embarked on a playful exploration of the best houseplants for cats, selecting the crème de la crème of house plants for your curious kitties. Cats have a knack for bringing joy and mischief into our lives, so why not match their antics with a touch of plant-based whimsy?

Amidst this verdant sea of options, one plant stands tall as the true maven of feline-approved flora—the charming and resilient Spider plant. Just like the playful agility of our feline friends, the Spider plant’s arching foliage gracefully dances in the air, casting an enchanting spell on any room it inhabits.

black and white cat in the sunshine near a potted plant

The Spider plant boasts a pet-safe nature that will ease any worried cat parent’s mind. Its lush leaves contain no toxic substances, allowing our curious companions to explore and interact without concern.

Your mischievous furball can nibble, bat, and frolic to their heart’s content, knowing that this vibrant green gem won’t harm them. Watching your furry buddy swat at the dangling “spiderettes” that adorn the plant’s stems is bound to bring a smile to your face.

With each graceful leaf, it diligently absorbs harmful toxins. Giving you and your feline companion a breath of fresh air. In the realm of household plants, the Spider plant is truly a superhero, cleansing your living space while charming your beloved cat with its natural allure.

Let’s dive a little deeper and check out the other best houseplants for cats.

Product Reviews

Best Overall – Spiderplant

close up of a spider plant

Highlights

As a devoted cat owner and plant freak, I have always sought to create an indoor haven where my furry companions can safely explore and play. I can confidently say that the Spider plant has emerged as the ultimate champion in the realm of cat-friendly house plants.

There is no denying the sheer entertainment value the Spider plant offers to cats and their owners. Watching my cat Gizmo engage in playful antics, swatting at the delicate “spiderettes” that dangle from the plant’s stems, never fails to bring a smile to my face.

Knowing he could freely interact with the cascading foliage without any toxic risks brought immense peace of mind.

Not only does the Spider plant bring joy and amusement, but it also enhances the air quality of our living space. As someone who values a clean and healthy environment, I appreciate the natural air-purifying abilities of this marvelous plant.

My life can get hectic, and tending to plants may slip my mind. Fortunately, the Spider plant is a forgiving companion that thrives even in the face of occasional neglect. Its resilience has saved me from countless gardening mishaps.

Whether adjusting to indirect light conditions or forgiving me for forgetting to water it on time, the Spider plant bounces back with unwavering vitality. It’s the ideal plant for busy cat owners like myself, offering both beauty and simplicity in its care.

Key Features

  • Safe for cats: The Spider plant is non-toxic and poses no harm to curious cats.
  • Playful paradise: The cascading foliage and dangling “spiderettes” provide endless entertainment for cats.
  • Air-purifying champion: The Spider plant naturally filters toxins, enhancing the air quality in your home.
  • Resilient and low-maintenance: This plant thrives in various conditions and forgives occasional neglect.
  • Aesthetic elegance: The long, arching leaves add a touch of elegance and beauty to any room.
  • Easy propagation: Spider plants produce numerous baby spiderettes that can be rooted and shared with fellow plant enthusiasts and cat lovers.

top down view of spider plant

Who’s It for?

The Spider plant is an excellent choice for cat owners who want to enrich their indoor environment with plants while ensuring their feline companions’ safety and well-being.

Suppose you enjoy watching your feline friends engage in acrobatic antics and explore their surroundings. In that case, the Spider plant’s cascading foliage and dangling “spiderettes” provide a delightful playground for them.

The Spider plant caters to busy individuals or those new to plant care. Its resilience and low-maintenance characteristics make it a convenient option for those who may not have the time or expertise to dedicate to extensive plant care routines.

The Spider plant is fresh out, but peruse the plants at your leisure with the button!

Best Stand Alone Plant – Pony Tail Palm

Highlights

My feline sidekick is always on the prowl for new adventures and has found his latest obsession—the Ponytail Palm. With its luscious, cascading foliage and captivating charm, this palm has won my cat Gizmo’s heart. It also has earned a place of honor in our feline-friendly abode.

The Ponytail Palm is safe for cats and boasts an unwavering resilience that matches Gizmo’s indomitable spirit. No matter how often Gizmo decided to embark on a climbing expedition, mistook it for his scratching post, or knocked it over in a playful frenzy, this palm remained unflappable.

It stood tall and thrived. Leaving Gizmo in awe of its unyielding determination—just like a “cat among the pigeons.” Ponytail Palm passes the whisker test with flying colors. Its foliage is non-toxic, allowing cats to indulge in their insatiable curiosity.

Being a busy pet parent means my hands are full, but the Ponytail Palm offers a hassle-free companionship that’s a walk in the park. It requires minimal care, allowing me to focus on giving Gizmo the attention he deserves (which is every cat’s main priority, right!).

Key Features

  • Striking appearance: Showcasing a unique, bulbous trunk that tapers upwards and long, arching leaves resembling a cascading ponytail. Hence its name.
  • Resilient and drought-tolerant: This plant is highly adaptable and can thrive in various conditions. It is known for its ability to withstand drought, making it suitable for busy plant owners or those prone to occasional forgetfulness.
  • Safe for cats: Non-toxic to cats, ensuring a safe environment for your curious feline friends.
  • Eye-catching foliage: The long, slender leaves of the Ponytail Palm add a touch of elegance and visual interest to any indoor space.
  • Low-maintenance: Requires minimal care, making it ideal for those with a busy lifestyle or those new to plant care.

ponytail palm in white pot and white background

Who’s It for?

It’s tailored for cat lovers who want to enhance their living space with greenery without compromising the safety and well-being of their furry friends. 

Anyone looking for a built-in playground that keeps their cat entertained and active. Great for seasoned plant parents or newbies looking for a remarkable houseplant. 

It’s a match made in heaven for those who adore their feline companions and want to introduce cat-safe plants to their indoor jungle.

Most Fruity Looking-  Bromelaid Pineapple

Highlights

The Bromeliad Pineapple is a hero in disguise. It thrives on neglect, requiring minimal care and attention. Forget about being a helicopter plant parent – this gem can handle the occasional forgetfulness and still look fabulous.

It’s practically a self-sufficient green wonder! Its leaves grow in a rosette shape, forming a natural cup-like structure. 

When my Bromeliad Pineapple produced its first fruit, my cat Gizmo became a certified fruit inspector. He sniffed, pawed, and gave it the toughest scrutiny. I’ve never seen a cat so dedicated to quality control!

This plant is safe for cats while adding a touch of tropical zest to your living space. With its lush, vibrant green leaves, and stunning pineapple-like centerpiece, this plant is an attention grabber!

The Bromeliad Pineapple plant is a pro at filtering toxins and releasing fresh oxygen. In turn making your home environment healthier for you and your feline companion.

Key Features

  • Safe for cats: Non-toxic to both cats and dogs. So your furry friend can have a taste test without any vet visits or whisker-raising emergencies!
  • Tropical eye-candy: Its lush, vibrant leaves and pineapple-like centerpiece will make your home feel like a tropical paradise.
  • Lazy pet-parent approved: Requires minimal care and attention, even the laziest of pet parents can enjoy a thriving plant without a sweat.
  • Air-purifying magic: This green hero filters out toxins and releases fresh oxygen, making your home air feel crisp.
  • Fruit fandango: Get ready for a fruity fiesta when it starts fruiting! Your cat might mistake it for a buffet. Watch those sneaky paws.
  • Whisker-Worthy Style: The Bromeliad Pineapple adds vibrancy to any space. It turns heads and makes a statement wherever it’s placed!
  • Curiosity thriller: Watch your cat’s whiskers wiggle in curiosity as they investigate this intriguing plant. The pointy, strappy leaves are purr-fect for them to brush their face.
  • Green thumbs-Up: Even if you lack a green thumb, fear not! This plant forgives forgetfulness and thrives on neglect.

bromelaid pineapple middle focus

Who’s It for?

If you’re a cat owner who embraces your feline friend’s mischievous antics and your desire for a style and excitement in your home, then the Bromeliad is an excellent choice. 

Cat parents who want their living space to reflect their vibrant personalities while keeping their cat safe and entertained would benefit from this plant. 

Suppose you believe that “life’s too short for boring indoor plants,” then the Bromeliad Pineapple is your floral fashion statement!

Best Cat Safe Fern- Kangaroo Paw Fern 

Highlights

The Kangaroo Paw Fern is like a living work of art, adding a touch of elegance and grace to any space. This tropical plant’s feathery fronds dance in the breeze, creating a mesmerizing spectacle that will surely catch your cat’s eye. 

Gizmo couldn’t resist the fern’s hypnotic sway; his eyes followed the movements as if watching a mesmerizing ballet performance!

Its luscious, fluffy fronds are an invitation your feline friend can’t resist. The Kangaroo Paw Fern encourages play and exercise. With its gracefully arching fronds, it becomes the ultimate obstacle course for your nimble and agile kitty. 

This plant is like a sanctuary of pet-friendly greenery. Its non-toxic nature ensures your cat can investigate and nibble without any worries. You can rest easy, knowing your cat won’t have unexpected vet visits. It’s a haven of security amidst the wildness of the plant kingdom!

It tackles pollutants and releases fresh oxygen, making your space as crisp and clean as a cat’s whiskers. 

For cat owners with a busy lifestyle, the Kangaroo Paw Fern is like a dream come true. It thrives with minimal care, tolerating occasional neglect like a true survivor. It bounces back with resilience, even if you forget to water it for a while.

Key Features

  • Feline magnet: Attracts curious cats with its lush and fluffy fronds.
  • Playful paradise: It serves as a playground for your adventurous feline friend, offering excitement and exploration.
  • Safe haven: This fern is a sanctuary of pet-friendly greenery, ensuring your cat can investigate and nibble without any worries.
  • Air-purifying hero: Purifies the air in your home and provides a breath of fresh air.
  • Resilient survivor: Bounces back from neglect like a true survivor, thriving with minimal care and occasional forgetfulness.
  • Visual elegance: Its feathery fronds are mesmerizing and like a living work of art that adds elegance and grace to any space.
  • Whisker-worthy swag: The fern’s graceful movements are irresistible to cats, captivating their attention like a hypnotic dance performance.

 kangaroo paw fern leaves close up

Who’s It for?

If you prioritize clean and fresh air and the safety of your feline friend in your home, the Kangaroo Paw Fern is an excellent choice. 

Whether you have an eye for beauty or want to add an elegant touch to your living space, this plant will do the job. If you’re a cat owner who appreciates nature but has a busy schedule, the Kangaroo Paw Fern will work with you. 

It requires bright indirect light and minimal care, and thrives even with occasional neglect. For cat owners who love to see their furry friends engaged and entertained, the Kangaroo Paw Fern is the way to go.

Most Colorful Plant – Stromanthe Triostar

Highlights

The Stromanthe triostar (Prayer plant) is like a fireworks display of vibrant colors that will leave both you and your cat in awe. This potted plant’s variegated leaves boast shades of green, cream, pink, and red, creating a stunning visual spectacle. 

These pet-friendly plants are more than just eye candy; they are an amusement park for your curious cat. Its broad leaves and mesmerizing patterns make it the ultimate hiding spot for playful paws and the perfect backdrop for feline adventures. 

Gizmo turned it into his fortress, peeking out from the foliage like a mischievous spy. The colorful plant ensures your cat’s safety while offering a striking presence. It’s like a guardian angel of houseplants, providing a non-toxic environment where your curious companion can explore without worries. 

It’s the peace of mind every cat owner desires! Even in areas with partial light, the Stromanthe triostar (prayer plant) thrives and steals the spotlight. It adapts and flourishes in the shadows while bringing color to even the darkest corners of your home. 

The Stromanthe triostar (prayer plant) has a soothing presence that creates a serene atmosphere. Its graceful leaves and gentle swaying motion calm you and your cat, adding tranquility to your space.

Key Features

  • Striking variegated foliage: Stunning variegated leaves with vibrant shades of green, cream, pink, and red. Its foliage adds a pop of color and visual interest to any space.
  • Exotic tropical appearance: This brings exotic beauty into your home. Its eye-catching foliage resembles a work of art straight from the rainforest.
  • Feline-friendly and non-toxic: A house plant safe for cats. It is non-toxic, allowing your feline companion to explore and interact with it without any worries about potential harm.
  • Indirect light tolerance: This plant can thrive in areas with bright indirect light conditions, making it suitable for spaces with limited natural light. It adapts well to indoor environments and continues to showcase its vibrant colors even in dimmer settings.
  • Air-purifying qualities: Contributes to improved air quality by purifying the surrounding environment. It absorbs and filters toxins, releasing fresh oxygen into your home.
  • Aesthetically pleasing foliage movement: a unique characteristic of folding up at night and unfurling in the morning. This subtle movement adds a dynamic element to its overall appearance and creates a sense of liveliness.
  • Moderate care requirements: Moderately easy to care for. It prefers its soil moist and thrives in a warm and humid environment. Providing water regularly, indirect sunlight, and the occasional misting will help keep this plant happy and healthy.

close up of stromanthe triostar white background

Who’s It for?

For apartment dwellers or homeowners with little direct light, Stromanthe triostar is the perfect plant. This plant is a winner for any cat owner who prioritizes their furry friend’s safety.

If you want to add a touch of beauty and some visual appeal to your home decor, the variegated leaves of the Stromanthe triostar can do just that.

Step By Step Buying Guide for Best Houseplants for Cats

Research Cat-Friendly Plants

Start by researching and compiling a list of many houseplants that are safe for cats. Look for non-toxic houseplants that won’t pose a risk to your feline companion if they decide to nibble on the leaves or explore the plant.

cats surrounded by plants

Consider Your Cat’s Behavior

Consider your cat’s behavior when selecting plants. If your cat loves to chew or play with plants, choose sturdier options that withstand rough handling. If your cat is more laid-back and less interested in interacting with plants, you’ll have more flexibility in your choices.

grey cats outside window with plant inside

Assess Lighting Conditions

Evaluate the lighting conditions in your home. Determine whether you have areas with direct sun, partial sunlight, or low light. This will help you select plants that can thrive in the available light and ensure their health and growth.

 cat rubbing against a plant pot

Determine Space Availability

Consider the available space in your home. Do you have large open areas or limited space? Choose indoor plants that fit the available space and won’t overcrowd your living areas. Depending on your space constraints, you can opt for floor plants, hanging plants, or compact tabletop options.

fluffy cat beside palm plant on white background

Evaluate Care Requirements

Assess your ability to care for plants. If you have a green thumb and enjoy caring for plants, you can choose plants requiring more attention and care. If you prefer low-maintenance options, look for indoor plants that can thrive with minimal watering, occasional misting, and infrequent fertilizing.

cat trying to eat greens in pot

Seek Air-Purifying Plants

Look for indoor plants that have air-purifying qualities. This will not only benefit your cat but also improve the air quality in your home. Plants like spider plants, Boston ferns, and peace lilies are known for their air-purifying properties.

cat smelling green plant

Visit a Reputable Nursery

Once you have a list of cat-friendly plants, visit a reputable nursery or garden center. Browse their selection and ask for assistance from knowledgeable staff members who can guide plant care, compatibility with cats, and specific plant requirements.

cat looking at green plant

Inspect the Plants

Carefully inspect the plants before purchasing. Check for signs of pests, healthy foliage, and overall plant condition. Avoid buying plants that appear unhealthy or have yellowing or wilting leaves.

cat peering through plants

Purchase and Transport Safely

Once you’ve selected the plants, buy and transport them carefully to avoid damage. Place them securely in your vehicle and protect them from extreme temperatures during transportation.

gray cat looking at the camera next to a plant

Introduce the Plants Gradually

When bringing the plants home, introduce them gradually to your cat. Monitor their behavior and ensure they don’t show excessive interest or attempt to chew on the plants. Provide alternative toys or cat-friendly distractions to redirect their attention.

cat sitting amongst plants

FAQ

What houseplants are best for cats?

Several houseplants, considered cat-safe plants, include Spiderspider Plants, Cast iron plants, Areca Palms, Bamboo Palms, air plants, and Calatheas. They are non-toxic to cats and can be enjoyed without worry.

What is the safest plant for cats?

The safest plant for cats is the Catnip plant (Nepeta cataria). Catnip is a perennial herb that cats are naturally attracted to. It is safe for cats to nibble on and provides a stimulating and enjoyable experience.

What plants are cats most attracted to?

Cats are attracted to plants with a strong aroma or grass-like foliage: Catnip, Cat Grass (Wheatgrass or Barley grass), and Silver Vine.

Do cats like plants in the house?

Some cats enjoy interacting with plants, rubbing against them, or nibbling on the leaves. However, not every cat is interested in plants; some may ignore them.

What plants help cats relax?

Valerian, Chamomile, and Lavender are known for their relaxing properties. These plants can create a soothing environment for your feline friend.

What plants will cats ignore?

Some plants that cats generally ignore include succulents like Echeveria and Sedum and plants with leathery or tough leaves, such as Rubber Plants (Ficus elastica) and Snake Plants (Sansevieria).

Do cats need plants?

Cats don’t necessarily need plants for their well-being; they primarily rely on a balanced diet and mental stimulation. However, some cats enjoy having access to safe plants, as they can provide entertainment, sensory enrichment, and a connection to nature.

Are any plants good for cats?

Other than sensory stimulation, some plants can help improve air quality, reduce stress, or act as natural insect repellents. These include Spider Plants, Boston Ferns, and Cat Grass.

Purrfectly Planted: Feline-Friendly Flora to Keep Your Cat’s Curiosity and Contentment Growing!

One plant spins to the top as the ultimate feline-friendly companion—the Spider Plant! With its undeniable charm and perfect qualities, it takes the crown as the best plant for your whiskered wonders.

This plant weaves its magic with a flair that will mesmerize your cat. Its long, arching leaves dangle like an invitation for play, tempting your kitty to pounce and swat like a furry ninja. Talk about a leafy cat toy that keeps them entertained for a few hours!

But the Spider Plant isn’t just about captivating your cat’s attention. It’s also a master air purifier, chasing away toxins. Say goodbye to stale air and hello to a fresher, cleaner atmosphere that will have your home smelling sweet.

And the best part? The Spider Plant is as resilient as it is captivating. It can survive neglect and forgetfulness like a pro, bouncing back from under watering or accidental overexposure to sunlight.

So, whether you’re a crazy cat lady or a proud cat dad, the Spider Plant is your sidekick in creating a pawsome environment for your fur babies.

Ready to Transform your Cat-friendly Home into a Purrfect Paradise with Plant Power?

Don’t let this opportunity slip through your paws! Get ready to unleash the magic, create a haven for your whiskered companions, and experience a new level of plant growing.

Check out our care pages, where you’ll find all the latest info to whisk you into a world of plants. We’ll guide you through the ins and outs of pruning like a pro, fertilizing with finesse, and troubleshooting those pesky pests.

We love a good old plant chat too, so join our growing community of plant enthusiasts, where you can swap stories, share successes, and laugh off your leafy mishaps.

Photo of author
Alex Tinsman
An avid plant and flower lover! Ever since he was little, plants, flowers, and shrubbery of all kinds filled his life. Alex credits this fascination with nature's beauty to his mother and grandmother who were - and still are - dedicated gardeners. It's now Alex's mission to pass that same love for plants onto others and show them it's as easy as pie to bring nature inside.

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