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Cute Puppy

Pet Friendly Plants

Adding greenery to your home shouldn’t come at the expense of your furry friends. If you share your space with a curious cat or a mischievous pup, it’s important to choose plants that are non-toxic and safe to have around. Thankfully, there are plenty of beautiful, pet-friendly options that can bring life into your home without putting your pets at risk.

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At Abundant Gardens in Plant City, we’re here to help you create a lush, safe, and welcoming environment for every member of the family. 
 

Safe Indoor Plants for Homes with Pets

Looking to liven up your living room or add a little color to your kitchen windowsill? These plants are non-toxic to cats and dogs and make excellent additions to any pet-friendly space.

Top Pet-Safe Indoor Plants

  • Spider Plant – Hardy and forgiving with playful, trailing foliage.

  • Calathea – Striking patterned leaves and thrives in low-light spots.

  • Areca Palm – A gentle, air-purifying palm perfect for bright rooms.

  • Peperomia – Compact and easy-care with many fun leaf varieties.

Looking to start your pet-safe collection? Browse our indoor plants in-store and ask about which varieties are best for your lifestyle.

Safe Outdoor Plants for Homes with Pets

You don’t have to sacrifice a beautiful yard to keep your pets safe. These outdoor plants are not only vibrant and attractive, they’re also safe for pets who like to sniff, dig, or nap in the garden beds.

Pet-Safe Outdoor Favorites

  • Marigold (Tagetes species) – Bright and bug-repelling.

  • Basil – Edible, fragrant, and a pollinator magnet.

  • Snapdragon – Colorful and low-maintenance.

  • Nontoxic Ferns (like Boston fern) – Great for shady spaces.

  • Rosemary & Thyme – Culinary herbs that thrive in Florida sun.

💡 Pro Tip: Many of these plants also attract butterflies and bees—so your pet-safe yard can double as a pollinator paradise!

Common Plants That Are Toxic to Pets

Not all plants play nice with pets. Some popular houseplants and landscaping choices can cause anything from mild irritation to severe health issues if ingested.

Avoid These If You Have Pets

  • Sago Palm – Extremely toxic, especially to dogs.

  • Lilies – Especially dangerous for cats, even a small amount can cause kidney failure.

  • Aloe Vera – Healing for humans, harmful to pets.

  • Pothos – A common trailing plant that’s toxic when chewed.

  • Philodendron – Another popular houseplant that can cause vomiting and irritation.

💡 Pro Tip: When in doubt, always double-check the ASPCA’s Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant List or ask our staff in-store before bringing home a new plant.

Tips for Keeping Pets & Plants Peacefully Coexisiting

Even pet-safe plants can suffer when a curious pet decides they’re a snack or a toy. Here are a few simple ways to protect both your greenery and your four-legged roommates:

Pet & Plant Tips

  • Elevate your plants – Use plant stands, hanging baskets, or wall-mounted shelves to keep them out of reach.

  • Offer alternatives – Cat grass or pet-safe herbs like wheatgrass can satisfy natural chewing instincts.

  • Use natural deterrents – Cats and dogs often avoid the scent of citrus, so placing orange or lemon peels in pots can help deter them.

  • Avoid chemical deterrents – Stick with pet-safe solutions like vinegar water, cayenne (for outdoor use), or motion-activated sprays.

While designated as pet-safe, all plants should be monitored around animals, as individual sensitivities or reactions may still occur.

Green Homes Can Be Pet Safe Homes

With a little planning, you don’t have to choose between having a thriving indoor jungle and a safe space for your pets. Pet-friendly plants are a great way to bring beauty and life into your home, all while keeping your companions healthy and happy.

 

Come visit Abundant Gardens in Plant City to explore our plants and get expert advice on the best options for your home. We’re always happy to help you grow with confidence!

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