Are Spider Plants Toxic to Cats and Dogs? What Pet Owners Need to Know

April 2023

If you're a pet owner and a plant lover, it's essential to be aware of the potential risks of having certain plants in your home. With so many beautiful and popular houseplants available, it can be challenging to know which is a safe plant for your furry friends. One such common houseplant is the Spider plant or Chlorophytum comosum, also known as the air plant, a popular choice for indoor and outdoor plants. In this blog, we will discuss whether spider plants are safe for pets, specifically cats, and explore other pet-friendly plant options.

Spider plants are a commonly chosen indoor plant due to their attractive leaves and low maintenance requirements.While they are a great addition to any indoor space, pet owners may be concerned about the safety of their furry friends around these plants.

Are Spider Plants Toxic to Pets?

The good news is that spider plants are non-toxic to cats and dogs. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), spider plants are safe for pets and are not known to cause any harmful effects if ingested.

This makes spider plants a great choice for pet owners who want to enjoy the benefits of having indoor plants without worrying about the safety of their pets. However, it's important to keep an eye on your pets and make sure they don't excessively eat the spider plant foliage, which may cause stomach upset, diarrhea, and vomiting. If you notice any changes in your pets' behavior, it's best to contact your vet right away.

Spider Plants

How to Keep Your Pets Safe around Spider Plants

While spider plants are safe for pets to be around, there are still some precautions that you can take to ensure their safety:

Place the plant out of reach: While spider plants are non-toxic to pets, it is still a good idea to keep them out of reach of curious pets. Cats are especially known for their love of climbing and exploring, so it's best to place the plant in a location where they can't easily reach it.
Monitor your pets: Keep an eye on your pets when they are around the spider plant. If you notice that they are showing interest in the plant or attempting to eat it, it may be best to move the plant to a different location.
Keep the plant healthy: A healthy spider plant is less likely to attract pets, as it will not have any damaged or dying leaves. Ensure that the plant is receiving adequate sunlight and water and that it is free from any pests or diseases.

In conclusion, owning a spider plant can add a touch of beauty and freshness to your indoor garden. It is an attractive and air-purifying plant that is also safe for your furry friends. While it's important to be aware of the potential for spider plant toxicity in pets, this plant is generally considered a safe choice for pet owners. As with any plant, it's important to research and chooses non-toxic plants for your home, but spider plants are among the most popular and common household plants for a reason. So go ahead and enjoy the beauty of spider plant foliage without worrying about your pets' safety.