Spider plants rank high among houseplants for homes with pets. Many cat owners worry about safety. This guide checks facts on spider plants and cats. It draws from trusted sources like the ASPCA. Read on to learn if these plants suit your home.
What Is a Spider Plant?
Spider plants come from South Africa. Their scientific name is Chlorophytum comosum. They have long, green leaves with white stripes. Small white flowers appear sometimes. They make baby plants called spiderettes or pups. These hang down like spiders on webs.
People like them for clean air. They grow well indoors. They need medium light and water once a week. They adapt to most homes.
- Common names: Ribbon plant, spider ivy, airplane plant.
- Care tips: Use well-draining soil. Avoid direct sun to prevent leaf burn.
For more on cat-safe items, see our post on are carnations toxic to cats.
Is the Spider Plant Safe for Cats?
Spider plants do not count as toxic to cats. The ASPCA lists them as safe. Other groups like Poison Control agree. No harmful chemicals exist in the leaves or stems.
Cats can nibble without big risks. All parts stay safe. This includes roots, leaves, and baby plants. Still, watch for issues from overeating.
Some myths say spider plants act like catnip. They claim mild high effects. But science does not back this up. Cats may just like the texture.
Check your cat’s health with our pet symptom checker.
What Happens If a Cat Eats a Spider Plant?
Most cats face no harm from small bites. But large amounts can upset the stomach. Look for these signs:
- Vomiting.
- Diarrhea.
- Drooling.
- Loss of hunger.
These come from fiber in the leaves. Cats digest meat best. Plants can irritate their gut.
If symptoms last, call a vet. They may give fluids or medicine. Rare cases need x-rays if leaves clump in the belly.
Pots matter too. Soil or water in pots might hold fertilizer. That can harm cats. Use pet-safe products.
For related info, read can cats eat catnip.
Why Do Cats Chew on Spider Plants?
Cats chew plants for many reasons. Spider plants draw them in. The leaves dangle and move. This looks like prey or toys.
Other causes:
- Boredom: Cats need play. Plants offer fun.
- Diet needs: Some seek fiber to help digestion.
- Habit: Young cats chew more. A 2019 study links it to worm control.
Not all cats do this. Indoor cats may chew more than outdoor ones. They lack grass outside.
To curb this, try toys or puzzles. See our guide on why does my cat lick me.
How to Keep Cats Away from Spider Plants
You can have both plants and cats. Follow these steps:
- Hang plants high. Use baskets or hooks.
- Place on tall shelves. Cats can’t jump there.
- Spray leaves with bitter taste. Pet stores sell safe ones.
- Grow cat grass. It gives a safe chew option.
- Trim baby plants. They tempt cats most.
If your cat eats odd things, check health. Use our pet food safety checker for diet tips.
For more, read how to introduce a cat to a dog.
Other Safe Plants for Cat Homes
Spider plants work well, but try these too:
- Prayer plant: Low light, safe leaves.
- Boston fern: Bushy and non-toxic.
- Peperomia: Small and sturdy.
Check the ASPCA list for more.
Avoid toxic ones like lilies or sago palms. They cause kidney harm.
Plants to Avoid with Cats
Some plants pose real danger. Steer clear of:
- Lilies: Even pollen hurts kidneys.
- Pothos: Causes mouth pain.
- Dieffenbachia: Swells the tongue.
If unsure, search or ask a vet.
For breed tips, try our pet breed finder quiz.
Final Thoughts on Spider Plants and Cats
Spider plants stay safe for cats. They add green without big risks. Watch for stomach upset from too much eating. Keep plants out of reach. Offer grass instead.
This keeps your home calm. Your cat stays healthy. Plants thrive.
Questions? Comment below. For age info, use our pet age calculator.
Visit the ASPCA toxic plants list for full details.