Reported non-toxic
Spider Plant
Chlorophytum comosum
Spider plant is commonly listed as non-toxic for cats and dogs. Cats may still chew it, so watch for stomach upset.
Indoor plant shopping
Cat safe low light plants
Low light does not make a plant safe. Start with lower-risk indoor plants, then check the exact name before buying.
Lower-risk indoor options to compare
These are common indoor plant searches with safer or caution labels for cats.
Reported non-toxic
Bamboo Palm
Chamaedorea seifrizii
Bamboo palm is commonly listed as non-toxic for cats and dogs. Do not confuse it with sago palm, which is a serious hazard.
Use caution
Calathea
Calathea species
Calathea and prayer-plant relatives are commonly used as pet-friendlier houseplants. Check the exact name when buying.
Reported non-toxic
Christmas Cactus
Schlumbergera bridgesii
Christmas cactus is commonly listed as non-toxic for cats and dogs. Large amounts of any plant material can still upset the stomach.
Use caution
Money Tree
Pachira aquatica
Money tree is often chosen as a pet-friendlier houseplant. Confirm the exact plant because common names can be reused.
Reported non-toxic
Orchid
Phalaenopsis species
Phalaenopsis orchids are commonly listed as non-toxic for cats and dogs. Use the scientific name when checking a specific orchid.
Low-light plants often sold with pets in mind
Spider plant, bamboo palm, and some calathea or prayer-plant relatives are frequent starting points for pet homes. Confirm the scientific name on the tag and avoid soil additives or pesticides that could change the risk.
Low-light plants to avoid around cats
Snake plant, pothos, peace lily, ZZ plant, and sago palm are common indoor choices that should not be treated as cat-safe just because they are easy to grow.
Reported toxic
Snake Plant
Dracaena trifasciata
Snake plant is commonly reported as toxic to cats and dogs. Keep it away from pets that chew plants.
Reported toxic
Pothos
Epipremnum aureum
Pothos is commonly reported as toxic to cats and dogs because chewing can irritate the mouth and stomach.
Reported toxic
Peace Lily
Spathiphyllum species
Peace lily is not a true lily, but it is still commonly reported as toxic to cats and dogs due to irritating crystals.
Use caution
ZZ Plant
Zamioculcas zamiifolia
ZZ plant is best treated as caution unless you have a source for the exact plant. Many pet owners avoid it because chewing can irritate pets.
High-risk toxic
Sago Palm
Cycas revoluta
Sago palm is a high-risk plant for cats and dogs. Seeds and other parts can be dangerous; exposure needs urgent help.