11 Tall Houseplants That Won't Harm Your Cat

Dreaming of adding greenery to your home, but concerned for your curious cat? You're not alone. As cat lovers, finding safe and appealing houseplants can be a challenge. Don't worry, we're here to help!

Many cat owners struggle to find houseplants that are both visually appealing and safe for their pets. Luckily, there are several tall houseplants that fit the bill.

We'll cover the benefits of having tall houseplants, how to choose the right one for your space, and some tips on caring for them. Let's get started!

11 Tall Houseplants That Won't Harm Your Cat—Greenery for Cat Owners

Top 11 Tall Houseplants That Are Safe For Cats

If you're looking for tall houseplants that are safe for your feline friends, you have plenty of options to choose from. Here are the top 11 tall houseplants that are safe for cats:

1. Snake Plant

Also known as mother-in-law's tongue, the snake plant is a popular choice for pet owners because it's easy to care for and can grow up to 4 feet tall.

three snake plants hanging in macrame hangers

It's also known for its air-purifying properties, which can help keep your home's air clean and fresh.

Click here to find this snake plant on Amazon.

2. Areca Palm

The areca palm is another great choice for cat owners. This tropical plant can grow up to 7 feet tall and is known for its feathery fronds.

Gorgeous properly trimmed Areca palm trees inside a living room, Do Areca Palms Like Full Sun?

It's also a great air purifier and can help remove toxins like formaldehyde and benzene from the air.

Click here to find this areca palm on Amazon.

3. Boston Fern

The Boston fern is a classic houseplant that can add a touch of elegance to any room. It can grow up to 3 feet tall and is safe for cats to be around.

Boston fern placed on a table near the window for sunlight

It's also a great air purifier and can help remove pollutants like xylene and toluene from the air.

Click here to find this Boston fern on Amazon.

4. Rubber Plant

The rubber plant is a popular choice for pet owners because it's easy to care for and can grow up to 8 feet tall.

It's also known for its large, shiny leaves, which can add a touch of drama to any room. Just make sure to keep it out of direct sunlight and away from drafts.

Check out this rubber plant on Amazon.

5. Money Tree

The money tree is a popular houseplant that's said to bring good luck and fortune to its owners.

A Money Tree Plant with Ornate Braided Trunk in a white pot on a white, 7 Low Light Indoor Trees That Are Safe For Dogs

It can grow up to 6 feet tall and is safe for cats to be around. It's also a great air purifier and can help remove toxins like formaldehyde and benzene from the air.

Check out this money tree on Amazon.

6. African Violet

A favorite among houseplant enthusiasts, African violets bloom in low light and thrive in moderate temperatures and average humidity.

They can add a splash of color to your indoor garden. However, remember to use a non-toxic or natural fertilizer if your cat has a habit of nibbling on your plants.

Check out this African violet on Amazon.

7. Baby Tears

With its mat of tiny green leaves, baby tears can add texture and depth to your indoor jungle.

A beautiful baby tears plant on a white wooden chair

It's a good companion plant and may discourage pets that like to dig in your houseplants.

Check out this baby tears on Amazon.

8. Pilea Peperomioides

Also known as the Chinese money plant, this pet-safe houseplant is known for its round, fleshy leaves in vibrant green.

Two beautiful Pilea Peperomioides placed on a mat

It's a resilient plant that can survive in moderate-to-low light conditions and needs infrequent but deep watering.

Check out this pilea peperomioides on Amazon.

9. Banana Tree

The large, cat-friendly banana tree serves as a dramatic accent plant and can grow up to six feet or more.

Small Cavendish banana tree planted on a pot, How to Grow An Indoor Banana Tree [A Care Guide For Beginners]

Its long, wide leaves can bring a touch of the tropics to your home. Just make sure to provide it with rich soil, bright light, and regular watering.

Read more about banana trees: Bananas About Banana Trees: The Ultimate Guide Collection

Check out this banana tree on Amazon.

10. Echeveria

This succulent is a safe choice for cat owners. Echeveria plants grow plump rosettes, with colors ranging from greenish-silver to blue-green or even lilac-hued.

They love sun, so place them somewhere they can get 4 to 6 hours of sun each day.

Check out this echeveria plant on Amazon.

11. Gloxinia

Gloxinia hybrids are compact flowering houseplants that can serve as an eye-catching centerpiece on your dining room table.

They prefer low-light conditions and require frequent watering. The soil should be kept moist during the growing period.

Check out this gloxinia out on Amazon.

How to Choose the Right Houseplant for Your Cat

When it comes to choosing houseplants for your home, it's important to consider the safety of your furry friends.

Cats are curious creatures and love to explore their surroundings, so it's essential to choose plants that won't harm them.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when selecting cat-safe houseplants.

1. Research the Plant

Before purchasing any houseplant, it's crucial to do your research and ensure that it's safe for cats.

Some plants may be toxic to cats, and even a small amount can cause serious health problems.

You can use online resources or consult with your local nursery to determine which plants are safe for your feline friend.

2. Check the Plant Label

When you're at the nursery or store, make sure to check the plant label for any warnings about toxicity to pets.

If there is no information on the label, it's best to avoid the plant.

3. Consider Your Cat's Behavior

Cats are known for their curious and playful behavior, so it's essential to choose plants that won't tempt them.

Avoid plants with dangling leaves or flowers that cats may try to nibble on.

Additionally, some cats may be more prone to chewing on plants, so it's crucial to choose plants that won't harm them if ingested.

4. Place the Plant Out of Reach

Even if you choose a cat-safe houseplant, it's still important to place it out of your cat's reach.

Cats are excellent climbers and can easily jump onto shelves or tables to reach plants.

Consider placing plants on high shelves or in hanging baskets to keep them out of your cat's reach.

Cat-Proofing Your Plants

Even if you have cat-safe plants, it's important to take steps to prevent your cat from chewing on them or knocking them over.

Cat-proofing tips you need to follow:

Choose sturdy pots that won't tip over easily.

Use heavy rocks or decorative stones to cover the soil. This will prevent your cat from digging in the soil.

Place your plants in a location that's out of reach of your cat. Consider hanging them from the ceiling or placing them on a high shelf.

Provide your cat with plenty of toys and scratching posts to keep them distracted from your plants.

By following these tips, you can enjoy beautiful houseplants while keeping your cat safe and healthy.

Signs that Your Cat is Allergic to Your House Plant

If you have recently introduced a new house plant to your home, it's important to keep an eye on your cat's behavior to ensure they are not having an allergic reaction. Here are some signs to look out for:

1. Excessive scratching and grooming

If you notice your cat scratching and grooming themselves more often than usual, it could be a sign that they are having an allergic reaction to your house plant.

2. Skin Irritation

Allergic reactions to house plants can cause skin irritation in cats. If you notice redness, bumps, or sores on your cat's skin, it's important to take them to the vet to determine the cause.

3. Sneezing and coughing

Cats can experience respiratory symptoms when they are allergic to something. Frequent sneezing and coughing is a clear sign that your cat is having an allergic reaction.

4. Watery eyes and runny nose

Allergic reactions can also cause watery eyes and a runny nose in cats. It's important to monitor them closely and take them to the vet if the symptoms persist.

Allergic reactions can be serious and even life-threatening in some cases, so it's important to act quickly if you notice any of these symptoms in your cat.