No one is too keen to find their precious plants looking tattered and frayed after a run-in with the kitty or pup, but things could be much worse than winding up with unsightly flora in the foyer.

Some plants are poisonous to pets, posing a real danger if you're not careful about what you place in proximity to playful puppy dogs and curious kitty cats.

Thankfully, there are plenty of plants that pose no possible threat to your pets, and we're going to cover them in this guide so you can keep your pet-friendly home safe.

What Types of Plants Are Safe?

People love houseplants. A pop of greenery sets a serene scene, making the home more homey and inviting family members and guests alike to sit down and stay awhile.

Unfortunately, your pets have other plans. A plant within reach might be seen as an invitation to play, nibble, and eat pieces of the plant, some of which could poison your pet, making them ill and possibly leading to life-threatening conditions.

If you're looking to add some plants to your place but you need to make sure they're pet-friendly, consider the following options that are safe for your pets:

• Snake plant (Sansevieria trifasciata): This plant is known for its tolerance of low light and infrequent watering. It is also non-toxic to cats and dogs.
• ZZ plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia):  This plant is another low-maintenance option that is safe for pets. It is also drought-tolerant, so you don't have to worry about overwatering it.
• Peace lily (Spathiphyllum wallisii):  This plant is known for its beautiful white flowers. It is also non-toxic to cats and dogs, but it can cause stomach upset if eaten in large quantities.
• Spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum):  This plant is a great air purifier and is also safe for pets. It is also easy to care for, making it a good choice for beginners.
• Chinese evergreen (Aglaonema commutatum):  This plant comes in a variety of colors and is non-toxic to cats and dogs. It is also easy to care for, making it a good choice for busy people.

With so many different choices, you won't have to sacrifice style for safety. These plants create a peaceful environment without putting your pets at risk.

How Do I Make Sure My Pets Are Safe Around Plants?

Just because these plants won't pose a danger to your pets doesn't mean you should let them treat your pots and planters like a salad bowl. There are still precautions you might consider taking to ensure the plants remain intact around your furry friends.

For one, keep all pots and planters out of reach. Put them on high shelves or on tables that they have no access to. So long as they're still getting the right amount of sunlight and plenty of nutrients, your plants will still thrive while surviving your pet's not-so-harmless curiosity.

Most dogs will be defeated easily with this tactic, but cats are fearless and unrelenting. Heights are far from an adequate deterrent for your feline friend. To outwit a kitten, you'll need a little supervision, even if the plants are inconvenient for them to access. A committed cat will find their way.

Imposing other barriers, like closed doors or pet gates, could work as well. It all depends on how much your pet perseveres in the face of adversity.

Did My Pet Eat a Poisonous Plant?

Perhaps you've taken all the precautions possible, but your dog or cat nibbled on something in the garden and you're not sure if it was safe.

Keep an eye out for signs of poisoning, such as:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Seizures
• Difficulty breathing

Keep a close eye out for these signs. If you're not able to stay home and monitor, don't be shy to call our professional pet sitters at Happy Paws Pet Sitting. We're happy to keep them company in your absence and will report anything out of the ordinary immediately so you can go to work, run your errands, and take care of other important business without missing a beat.

If your pet exhibits any symptoms that suggest they've eaten a poisonous plant, consult your veterinarian immediately. It's always better to be safe than sorry.

Conclusion

Plants really spruce up a space, but our pets prefer hands-on activities to decorations. So, don't be surprised when your spider plants turn into their spider snack!

Luckily, there are many plant species that look good and pose no danger to your pets that you could use to decorate. Combined with a little supervision, by you and by your best pet pals at Happy Paws Pet Sitting, you'll be well on your way to creating an environment that features all the flowery flora and furry fauna you fawn over!