Common houseplants that are toxic to cats

If you're the proud parent of a curious cat and a lover of leafy interiors, it's worth knowing which houseplants are toxic to cats.

Those glossy green leaves might be easy on the eyes, but they can spell trouble for your four-legged explorer. And remember - there are degrees of poisoning, so if you suspect your cat has nibbled on something toxic, don’t wait.

The best course of action is to seek expert medical advice from a vet as soon as possible.

House plants are a great way to bring the outdoors into our homes, but unfortunately, some of the plants we use to brighten up our houses can be dangerous to our pets.

So, let’s take a closer look at some of the most common houseplants that are poisonous to cats. No panic, just essential information every cat owner should know.

While houseplants can bring beauty and calm to our homes, some of them can pose serious health risks to our feline companions. With the correct knowledge, you can keep both your indoor jungle and your cat safe and thriving.

Common houseplants that are toxic to cats

1. Peace lilies

2. Aloe vera

3. Tulips

4. Poinsettias

5. Lilies

6. Spider plants

7. Lavender

8. Alocasia

9. Bird of paradise

10. English ivy

Peace lilies

Let’s just rip off the plaster: Are peace lilies toxic to cats? Yes. Yes, they are. Despite the name, there’s nothing peaceful about what happens if your cat chews one. 

Peace lilies contain insoluble calcium oxalates (fancy talk for irritants), which can cause oral pain, drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing. Basically, your cat’s mouth goes into full-on protest mode. 

There’s no doubt they’re stunning - those elegant white blooms are pure zen vibes - but maybe keep them out of paw’s reach. Or better yet, swap them for our convincing artificial calla lily and save yourself the vet bill (and the guilt trip).

Aloe vera

If you want to know whether aloe vera is poisonous to cats, unfortunately, the answer is yes. 

While it's the go-to goo for human burns and beauty hacks, aloe’s saponins and anthraquinones are a big no-no for our feline companions. These compounds can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, tremors and general grumpiness (though let’s be honest, your cat might already have that last one covered). 😉 

So, while reaping the benefits of your skincare routine, maybe skip the real one and go for a faux aloe vera plant to enjoy the aesthetic without accidental poisoning. Win-win!

Tulips

Now here’s a good question: Are cats allergic to tulips, the beautifully popular springtime flower? 

Not exactly allergic, but tulips are definitely on the indoor plants poisonous to cats list. 

The whole of the tulip plant is poisonous to cats, from the petals to the stem and leaves. However, the bulb is especially harmful as it has a higher density of toxins. Most severe cases of toxicity arise from eating tulip bulbs, but if your cat has ingested any part of a tulip, you should contact your vet as soon as you’re aware of the situation.

The tulip bulb contains most of the toxic compounds, according to Purina, but even a cheeky nibble of the leaves or stems can lead to drooling, lethargy and gastrointestinal upset. Not exactly the mood you want from your furry pal. 

So, while tulips might scream "spring has sprung," your cat’s insides might scream something else entirely. Faux tulips, on the other hand? - 100% safe, 0% faff, and still give that cheerful pop of colour. 

Poinsettias

Here’s the good news - poinsettias aren’t as deadly as the internet might have you believe. But (and it's a big but) they're irritating. They contain a milky white sap that can cause mouth irritation, drooling and mild tummy upset.

So, if your cat has a taste for seasonal décor, it’s best to skip the real thing. Artificial poinsettias are just as festive, don’t shed leaves and won’t cause surprise puddles of vom on your new rug. Now that’s what we call Christmas cheer!

Lilies 

Not to be dramatic, but lilies top the list of plants that are dangerous to cats. Even having them in a vase can be risky. 

Just a tiny interaction, like licking pollen off their fur, can cause kidney failure. We're talking all true lilies - tiger, day, Easter, stargazer - the whole lot. 

According to Cat's Protection:

All parts of the lily plant are toxic to cats if ingested, and consuming small amounts can result in severe poisoning. The best way to prevent your cat from being poisoned is simply to not have lilies in your home or garden. If you suspect your cat may have ingested any part of the lily plant, please seek advice from your vet immediately.

If your home isn't complete without a big, blooming bouquet, we suggest faux lilies; no pollen, no mess and no trips to the emergency vet. 

Spider plants

Ah, spider plants and cats. A tale as old as time. 

These leafy wonders aren’t technically toxic, but they do contain mild hallucinogens (yes, really) and can upset your cat’s stomach if eaten in excess. Basically, your cat might think it’s discovered catnip 2.0 and go in for seconds, thirds... and then regret everything. 

They’re not the worst offenders, but are a bit of a temptation with their dangly leaves and irresistible jungle vibes. If you have a particularly snacky cat, it might be wise to go for a faux spider plant here, too.

Lavender

Ah, lavender - soothing and lovely, but a no-go for cats.

Those calming scents come from compounds called linalool and linalyl acetate, which can upset your cat’s tummy, causing nausea, vomiting, and a loss of appetite. Even a small amount can be risky, as cats process toxins differently.

So, while lavender might bring you zen vibes, it’s best to keep it out of your feline friend’s reach. Faux lavender plants? Totally safe and just as pretty. Win-win!

Alocasia

Stunning? Absolutely. Safe for cats? Unfortunately, not even close.

Alocasia (also known as elephant’s ear) might be a favourite for its dramatic, sculptural leaves, but it contains insoluble calcium oxalates. If your curious kitty takes a nibble, it can lead to intense mouth pain, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. Not quite the indoor jungle vibes you were going for.

So, if your cat loves exploring the greenery, it is best to admire this beauty from afar or opt for a convincing faux version that delivers the drama without the drama.

Bird of paradise

Bold, tropical, and a total showstopper - bird of paradise brings serious holiday vibes to your living room. But when it comes to cats? It’s not such a paradise after all.

This plant contains toxic compounds that can cause nausea, vomiting, and drowsiness in curious kitties who decide to have a nibble. And while the flowers may look like exotic birds mid-flight, they’re best admired from a safe distance - ideally, somewhere your cat can’t get to.

If you’re after that tropical aesthetic without the worry, a faux bird of paradise is a solid stand-in: all the drama, none of the danger.

English ivy

Classic, cascading, and often seen in Pinterest-worthy plant walls, but when it comes to cats, English ivy is more foe than friend.

This vine contains triterpenoid saponins, which can cause vomiting, abdominal pain, hypersalivation and general misery in your feline. And unlike your trailing pothos, it doesn’t just hang around looking pretty - it’s packing a toxic punch even in small amounts.

So, if you love that dreamy, draping look, consider a faux ivy alternative. Same aesthetic, no sick pets, and zero sweeping up dropped leaves. That’s what we call a real win for your windowsill.

Cat-Safe Houseplants

Want cat-safe greenery? These popular houseplants are both stylish and non-toxic for curious kitties:

• Boston fern – Air-purifying and fluffy, this classic is non-toxic and cat-approved.

• Calathea – Bold patterns, beautiful leaves, and zero threat to your feline.

• Chinese money plant (pilea) – Cute, quirky, and 100% pet-safe.

• Maidenhair fern – Delicate and lush without the danger.

• Money tree – Said to bring luck (and thankfully, no vet bills).

• Orchids – Exotic and elegant, and yes, safe for cats.

• Parlour palm – A low-maintenance, cat-safe palm for that tropical vibe.

• Peperomia – Comes in many varieties, all of which are pet-friendly and pretty.

• String of hearts – Lovely trailing vines that won’t harm your cat.

Just remember, even non-toxic plants can cause tummy trouble if eaten in large amounts. So, it's still a good idea to keep your greenery out of reach, if only to avoid chewed-up leaves!

Avoiding poisonous plants for cats

If you’ve just mentally catalogued your entire indoor jungle and are suddenly eyeing your peace lily like it’s plotting something, take a breath - no need to panic. We’re not here to shame your plant picks - we’re here to help you dodge surprises (and unexpected vet visits). 

Here are a few things you can do: 

• Switch to faux: Artificial plants = zero toxins, zero faff, 100% cat-safe style. You still get the leafy look, minus the midnight vomits. 

• Do your homework: Before adding anything green to your cart, double-check if it’s safe for cats. There are loads of pet-safe beauties out there - you don’t have to compromise on looks.

• Get creative: Group your faux plants to create mini zen corners or lush little plantscapes that spark joy - bonus points for hiding unsightly chargers behind a faux monstera

And if you’re ever in doubt, a quick call to your vet (or a nosy scroll through our blog) will set things straight.

How to stop cats from eating houseplants?

You’re not alone - many cats treat houseplants like a salad bar. Here’s how to curb the cravings:

• Move plants out of reach: High shelves, wall planters, or hanging baskets can keep things safely out of paw’s reach.

• Use deterrents: Citrus peels, pet-safe bitter sprays, or even a little aluminium foil around the base can help make your plant less appealing.

• Distract with alternatives: Give your cat their own greenery. Cat grass or catnip are safe options, and can redirect their nibbling habits.

• Observe and adjust: Some cats lose interest over time, while others stay obsessed. Watch how yours behaves and adapt your setup accordingly.

And if you’re ever in doubt, a quick call to your vet (or a nosy scroll through our blog) will set things straight.

Create a non-toxic environment with artificial houseplants & flowers

Plenty of indoor plants are poisonous to cats, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your leafy dreams. With a bit of knowledge on real vs artificial plants (and a faux fiddle leaf fig or two), you can still create your botanical utopia - without stressing over bitey behaviour or mysterious leaf nibbling. 

These days, it’s not just about the plant - it’s about the whole look. From earthy ceramics to bold, sculptural planters, indoor plant and pot trends are having a serious moment. And the beauty of faux? You get the lush, curated vibe without the watering schedule or the guilt. 

At Blooming Artificial, we’re all about styling happy spaces and keeping curious kitties out of trouble. Our faux plants are crafted to look so lifelike that even your cat might give them a suspicious sniff. 

And hey, if you ever need help picking out the perfect faux plants to trick your guests and protect your pets, we’ve got you. Drop us a message, tag us on Instagram or send a carrier pigeon. (Actually, maybe not… the cat.) 🙈 

Let the cat-safe blooming begin. 🌿😺