Spider plants are a staple in so many of our homes, and for good reason! They look fantastic and are about as low-maintenance as a plant can get, making them a favorite for us hobby gardeners. But if you share your home with a feline friend, you might be wondering: is this leafy beauty safe for your cat?
Is the Spider Plant Toxic?
For us humans, the spider plant is totally harmless. When it comes to our pets, though, the answer is a bit more nuanced. While the plant isn’t strictly “poisonous,” the seeds are a definite no-go—if your cat snacks on them, they’re likely to end up with a very upset stomach. As for those long, tempting leaves? The “dose makes the poison.” A tiny nibble usually won’t hurt, but if your cat treats the plant like a salad bar, they’re going to have some digestive trouble. It’s always better to play it safe and keep your kitty from snacking on them at all.
Living with Pets and Spider Plants
As cat owners, we shouldn’t have to choose between a green home and a happy pet. But we all know that cats are basically little ninjas—they can reach almost any shelf or windowsill with ease. If you want to keep your indoor plants and your cat safe, hanging planters are your best friend! They look decorative and keep the leaves well out of reach of even the most athletic kitty. Also, keep in mind that if you use chemical fertilizers, you definitely don’t want your cat ingesting any part of that plant.
Leaving a spider plant in an easy-to-reach spot is just asking for trouble. To a cat, those dangling leaves are basically built-in toys that look delicious. Not only does a chewed-up plant look sad, but the resulting tummy ache can cause your pet a lot of unnecessary stress. A great pro-tip? Give your cat their own “garden” by setting out some catnip or specialized pet grass in a spot they can easily access.
Spider Plants and Cats: What You Need to Know
- Spider plants can be a bit of a gamble in a cat-friendly household.
- Cats find those dangling leaves almost impossible to resist.
- Eating the seeds or a large amount of foliage can lead to digestive issues.
- It’s best to keep the plant completely out of your cat’s reach.
- Hanging baskets are the perfect compromise for style and safety.
- Offer your cat catnip or cat grass as a safe, tasty alternative.