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Decorating your home with plants is a great way to add some fresh air and greenery, but be aware that not all plants are safe for pets. In this article, we will list ten safe plants for houses with animals.
The Risk of Plant Poisoning in Pets
Some plants can contain toxins that can be harmful to your pet. For example, ivy can contain a toxin that can cause vomiting and diarrhea in pets. Other plants, such as rhododendrons, can cause skin irritation and even seizures.
If you are unsure whether a plant is safe for your pet, always consult with a veterinarian. Additionally, always keep an eye on your pet while they are around plants that may contain toxins. If you notice any signs of poisoning, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or excessive drooling, take your pet to the veterinarian immediately.
Top 10 Safe Plants for Houses with Pets
Here are ten safe plants for houses with pets:
1. Spider Plant
Spider plants are a great choice for homes with pets because they are safe to handle and they don’t have any poisonous leaves or flowers. They are also easy to care for, and they will grow quickly in a pot or in the ground.
Be sure to water your spider plant regularly, and be sure to remove any leaves that may be in danger of falling off. You can also place a spider plant in a sunny spot, but be sure to move it if it gets too hot or too dry.
2. African Violet
Beautiful African violets are one of the safest plants for pets. They are low-maintenance and can grow in a variety of environments. They look great in any home and are perfect for adding a touch of color.
73–77 degrees F is the ideal temperature for an African violet. Keep the plant away from direct sunlight, and water it regularly. Do not fertilize the plant, as this may cause it to grow too vigorously.
3. Orchid
Orchids are another low-maintenance plant that is safe for pets. They come in a variety of colors and can be placed in any room of the house. They are also relatively easy to care for, making them a great choice for pet-owners who are busy.
Orchids have many long, thin roots that can easily get stuck in cracks in the floor. Make sure to place the orchid in a location that is well-lit and free from drafts.
4. Staghorn Fern
This fern is a great choice for those who have pets because it is safe for them to eat and it does not have any toxic properties. Staghorn ferns are also easy to care for, so you can keep them in any room in your home. You can water your staghorn fern once a week, and keep it in a dry place.
5. Tillandsia
These air plants are great for houses with pets because they are low-maintenance and do not require a lot of water. Tillandsia are also easy to move, so you can change the placement of the plant if it becomes too crowded. This decorative plant is perfect for a tropical or botanical-themed home.
This plant is not toxic to pets, but be sure to keep it out of reach of small children. Tillandsia should be watered regularly and kept in a bright, sunny spot.
6. Cat Grass
Cat grass is a type of succulent that is popular among pet owners because it is low-maintenance and easy to grow. This plant is also safe for cats to eat, so you can be sure that your feline friend will be happy with it. In fact, cat grass is even good for cats who have allergies, as it is free of pet dander.
7. Rosemary
You might not think of rosemary as a plant for a house with pets, but this aromatic herb is safe for both cats and dogs. Rosemary is also beneficial for both humans and pets, as it has anti-inflammatory properties.
Rosemary is a great plant for adding fragrance to your home, and it can also be used as an herbal remedy for a variety of ailments. Don’t overwater, though, as rosemary can get boggy if you do.
8. Succulent
Not all succulents are safe for pets, but some, like the Blue Bird Succulent, are. This plant is safe for both cats and dogs, and it can be easily grown in a pot or in the ground. However, Aloe Vera, Pencil Cactus, and Panda Plant are toxic to pets and should not be kept in close proximity to them.
Succulents are low-maintenance, so they’re a great option for those who want a plant but don’t have a lot of time to care for it. You can place them in a sunny spot or on a windowsill.
9. Palms
Large or small, palms are one of the safest plants for pets. Not only are they low-maintenance, but they also have a wide variety of leaf shapes and colors, so they can be easily matched with any home décor. You can also use palms as a natural screen door, letting in plenty of sunlight and air while keeping your pet safe from plant poisoning.
There are a variety of palms, ranging from small indoor palms to large outdoor palms, that are safe for pets. The smaller indoor palms can be kept in a pot or in a corner of the room, while the larger outdoor palms can be placed in a sunny spot near the front door.
10. Bamboo
Bamboo is another low-maintenance plant that is safe for pets. It grows quickly, making it an ideal choice for a quick addition to a home landscape. Bamboo also has a natural resistance to pests and diseases, so it will remain healthy even if your pet messes up the bamboo leaves.
When choosing a safe plant for your house, be sure to consider the size of the plant, the type of plant, and the toxicity of the plant. Additionally, be sure to do your research to find out which plants are safe for pets.
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Tom
Tom has always loved to write since he was little - he wanted to be either a writer or a veterinary doctor, but he ended up being a professional writer while most of his works are based on animals. He was born in San Francisco but later moved to Texas to continue his job as a writer. He graduated from the University of San Francisco where he studied biotechnology. He is happily married and a soon to be father!
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