Plants make your house look great and purify the indoor air. Some of them not only turn CO2 into oxygen, they also absorb common harmful household toxins, such as benzene, formaldehyde or trichloroethylene, out of the indoor air.
A while ago NASA published a list of their top 10 air purifying plants. But nearly all of them are toxic to our furry friends. Cats love to nibble on plants, so I decided to do some research and make my very own list of safe houseplants that will keep the air fresh and won’t kill your cats.
Here’s a pic of my two cuties…
1. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is definitely one of my favorite plants. They look great, purify the air of chemicals from paint and cleaning products. The gel can be used to relieve burns, cuts, rashes, insect bites, etc.
You may have read or heard rumors circulating the internet that you shouldn’t have aloe plants when having cats. The truth is, while aloe contains saponins that can wreak havoc on your cat’s delicate digestive system, it isn’t going to kill them. Their bodies will go into a detox mode and they may throw up and have an upset stomach or diarrhea but it won’t kill your furry friend. And actually most cats will learn their lesson and stay away from them in the future.
Though on very rare occasion, ingestion of aloe vera plant can be lethal, there aren’t many cats who get tempted to try those thick succulent leaves out for a quick nibble. One of my cats eats everything, but the aloe leaves just don’t get his attention. But if your cat keeps being attracted towards this plant or munches on the leaves it is best to get them out of your house to avoid regular green goo on your carpet and your cat being nauseous all the time.
Aloe care: they are low in maintenance and love a sunny spot near the window sill. They need a well-drained soil with slight drying between watering. Click here to learn more about how to care for your aloe plant and harvest its healing gel.
2. Bamboo Palm
A great looking plant that can grow between 3 to 6 feet. Most palms are safe for cats and they work great in removing formaldehyde, which is often used in furniture, for the indoor air. So best place them next to chairs, end tables or couches to maximize its effect. Not only will bamboo aid you to remove formaldehyde, it is also a great natural humidifier, benzene, and carbon monoxide purifier. So if you got a smoker in your home, this plant is an absolute must.
Bamboo care: bamboo likes bright, indirect light and a moist soil. But watch out you don’t water it too much. Although a moist soil is a must it doesn’t like to sit in water.
3. Spider Plant
Another great plant to rid your home from formaldehyde, xylene (a chemical used in leather, rubber, and printing industry), benzene, and carbon monoxide. They produce runners with baby plants that can easily be transplanted. Although this plant is safe for cats, some, actually most cats, really love to nibble on the long, skinny leaves and indigestion of it may trigger mild nausea.
Spider plant care: spider plants don’t need much attention. Just put them in a bright spot away from direct sunlight. They can easily go without water and will actually let you know when they are thirsty. The green of the longleaf will fade when it needs water.
4. Snake Plant aka ‘Mother-In-Law’s Tongue’
A common sight in many homes and absolutely safe for cats. Although some sources claim it otherwise. Same story as with the aloe plant. Saponins may upset your feline’s tummy but won’t kill it. And again most cats won’t even try to munch on its leaves. But if you have one of those cats who won’t learn their lesson it is better to remove them from your home.
It does a great job in filtering the air of common toxins found toilet paper, tissues, and other toiletries. It can grow in low light rooms, making it perfect for your bathroom or bedroom.
Snake plant care: can grow nearly everywhere and needs little attention and watering.
5. Boston Fern
Great humidifier and formaldehyde, toluene, and xylene capturing plant. They can grow really big, so only one Boston fern can have a great impact on your home. So if you don’t want to add too many plants to your home, you should definitely take one of these to cover some ground.
They are the safest plant for your cats and actually 100% edible.
Boston fern care: the plant loves a moist soil but can tolerate drought for a while. It doesn’t need bright light and grows well in partially lighted rooms.
It is recommended to have at least one potted plant every 100 ft2 (or 10 m2), but the more you have the better your indoor air quality will get.
FYI: How To Prevent Your Cat From Chewing On Plants
- Mist the leaves with water, then sprinkle cayenne pepper on them.
- Plant a container of grass for your cat, so they have their own thing to munch on. Cats often eat grass to induce vomiting to get rid of their hairballs.
- If your cats love digging in pots, place a piece of tin foil in the pot. Cats hate the look and feel of it or opt for a piece of plastic needlepoint canvas which can be found at your local hobby/craft store.
If you think your cat has been poisoned with any substance, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435), which is available 24/7 from anywhere in the US, but note there is a fee. Phones are manned by licensed veterinarians and toxicologists. Or not in the US, call your vet and he or she will tell you what to do or who to call.
Original article and pictures take eatlove.live site
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