15 Houseplants That Are Safe for Cats in the UK
(Non-Toxic & Beautiful)
If you’re a proud cat parent and a houseplant lover living in the UK, you’ve probably asked yourself this question:
“Which indoor plants are safe for cats?”
Many common houseplants — while beautiful — are toxic to cats, causing anything from an upset stomach to serious illness. But don’t worry — there are plenty of stunning, pet-safe plants that can bring greenery into your home without putting your feline at risk.
In this guide, we’ll share 15 non-toxic houseplants safe for cats, plus tips on care, placement, and where to buy them in the UK.
🐱 Why Cat-Safe Houseplants Matter
Cats are curious by nature — they explore, chew, dig, and sometimes knock things over. Unfortunately, many common indoor plants like lilies, aloe vera, and pothos are toxic to cats. Even a small nibble can lead to vomiting, diarrhoea, or worse.
That’s why choosing non-toxic, cat-friendly plants is so important. Whether your cat is a mischievous climber or just enjoys sunbathing next to your potted greenery, keeping them safe should always be a top priority.
Toxic houseplants to avoid:
Lilies
Aloe vera
Peace lilies
Snake plant
Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane)
🌿 What Makes a Houseplant “Cat Safe”?
Cat-safe houseplants are ones that are non-toxic to cats, even if ingested. These plants:
Don’t contain harmful sap or alkaloids
Are listed as safe by the ASPCA, RSPCA, or UK vet organisations
Are generally soft-leaved and unappealing to chew
Some are even air-purifying, low maintenance, and safe for children too — making them perfect for any pet-friendly household.
🏡 15 Houseplants That Are Safe for Cats in the UK
Here’s a roundup of beautiful, UK-available houseplants that are completely safe for cats:
🌿 1. Spider Plant
A classic for a reason! Spider plants are non-toxic, fast-growing, and great for hanging baskets or shelves. Cats love to bat at their arching leaves, but there’s no harm done.
🌿 2. Areca Palm
Also called the butterfly palm, this plant adds a tropical touch to any room. It’s safe for cats and thrives in indirect light — ideal for UK homes.
🌿 3. Calathea
With vibrant, patterned leaves, Calatheas are showstoppers that enjoy low to medium light. Bonus: they’re completely cat-safe and great for shaded corners.
🌿 4. Prayer Plant (Maranta)
This plant “prays” at night, folding its leaves upward. Cats are often fascinated by it — luckily, it’s non-toxic and grows well in medium humidity.
🌿 5. Bamboo Palm
Tall, elegant, and pet-safe. Bamboo palms purify the air and thrive in cooler UK climates, especially in bathrooms or bedrooms.
🌿 6. Peperomia
These compact plants come in a variety of textures and colours. They’re cat-friendly and do well in small spaces or on desks and shelves.
🌿 7. Kentia Palm
A hardy indoor palm that tolerates low light and dry air — perfect for homes with heating. It’s also on the list of safe plants for cats.
🌿 8. African Violet
Bring colour indoors with these pet-safe flowering plants. They love bright, indirect light and reward you with bold purple blooms.
🌿 9. Ponytail Palm
Don’t let the name fool you — this plant isn’t a true palm. It stores water in its bulb-like base and is completely safe for feline friends.
🌿 10. Baby Rubber Plant (Peperomia obtusifolia)
Not to be confused with the toxic Ficus elastica, this peperomia variety is small, glossy, and safe for cats.
🌿 11. Fittonia (Nerve Plant)
This low-growing plant has brightly veined leaves and is ideal for terrariums or bathrooms. Completely non-toxic and super stylish.
🌿 12. Boston Fern
Ferns are a natural fit for hanging baskets, and the Boston fern is one of the few safe options for cats. Mist it regularly to keep it lush.
🌿 13. Rattlesnake Plant (Calathea lancifolia)
Known for its wavy leaves and bold patterns, the Rattlesnake plant is a favourite among pet lovers.
🌿 14. Swedish Ivy
A great trailing plant with rounded leaves, Swedish Ivy is fast-growing, cat-safe, and easy to propagate.
🌿 15. Polka Dot Plant
Its spotted pink or white foliage adds charm to any space. It’s non-toxic to cats and thrives in warm, bright rooms.
🛍️ Where to Buy Cat-Safe Houseplants in the UK
Ready to add some pet-friendly greenery to your space? Here are trusted online plant retailers:
Bunches.co.uk – Affordable, well-packaged delivery plants
Flowers & Plants Co. – Excellent for gifting and exotic indoor plants
- Fabulous options to m&s houseplants, tesco houseplants or waitrose indoor plant gifts
🌱 Tips for Caring for Cat-Safe Plants
Just because a plant is safe, doesn’t mean your cat won’t get curious! Here’s how to keep both your greenery and your feline friend happy:
Use cat deterrent sprays (citrus or vinegar-based)
Keep soil covered with stones or moss to prevent digging
Place hanging or elevated plants out of reach
Avoid using chemical fertilisers or pest sprays
Rotate plants to prevent tipping from playful paws
❓ FAQs – Cat-Safe Houseplants UK Readers Ask
Are ferns safe for cats?
Some are! The Boston fern is cat-safe, while others like Asparagus fern are toxic.
Which plants are toxic to cats?
Lilies, aloe, jade plant, pothos, and peace lilies are among the most toxic.
What should I do if my cat chews a plant?
Check the plant type, monitor symptoms, and contact your vet if you’re unsure. Always keep the name of the plant handy.
Can I still keep plants if my cat eats everything?
Yes — go for safe options and use cat deterrents or physical barriers like hanging baskets.
🌟 Final Thoughts
Bringing nature indoors shouldn’t mean compromising your cat’s safety. With these 15 beautiful, non-toxic houseplants, you can enjoy greenery without the worry. Whether you’re decorating a sunlit flat or a shady hallway, there’s a pet-safe plant for every UK home.
👉 Looking for more inspiration? Explore our full guide to beginner-friendly houseplants or shop pet-safe plants online here.
