Spider plants safe for cats

by admin in Pet Care Basics 13 - Last Update November 19, 2025

Rate: 4/5 points in 13 reviews

As someone who has shared my home with both a jungle of houseplants and a curious feline for over a decade, the question of plant toxicity is always front of mind. I remember the panic I felt when I first saw my new kitten, Leo, batting at and then chewing on the leaves of a plant I\'d just brought home. It\'s a heart-stopping moment for any pet parent. That experience sent me down a rabbit hole of research, and one of the first plants I confirmed as a \'win\' for our household was the humble spider plant.

My personal journey with cats and houseplants

Honestly, creating a pet-friendly indoor garden felt like a huge challenge at first. So many popular plants are surprisingly toxic to our furry friends. I had to re-home a gorgeous monstera and a beloved ZZ plant. But I was determined to have greenery. The spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum) kept coming up in my research as a safe bet, so I decided to give it a try. I watched Leo like a hawk at first, and to my relief, his occasional nibbling resulted in nothing more than a bit of playful enthusiasm.

So, are spider plants officially cat-friendly?

Yes, they are. According to trusted sources like the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), spider plants are non-toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. This was a huge relief for me. It means that if your cat decides to have a little chew, you don\'t need to panic about poisoning. It’s one of the most recommended plants for pet owners, and for good reason—it’s resilient, a fantastic air purifier, and thankfully, safe for our curious companions.

A word of caution about \'safe\'

Now, here\'s a distinction I learned over time: \'non-toxic\' doesn\'t always mean \'consequence-free\'. While spider plants won\'t poison your cat, they do contain compounds that can cause mild stomach upset if ingested in large quantities. Think of it like a person eating too much of a rich, non-poisonous food—you might get a tummy ache. For cats, this can manifest as mild vomiting or diarrhea. Interestingly, spider plants are also known to have a mild, harmless hallucinogenic effect on felines, similar to catnip, which is often why they are so attracted to them in the first place! This is what I noticed with Leo; he seemed drawn to it for a euphoric nibble now and then.

Tips for keeping your cat and spider plant happy together

Over the years, I\'ve found a good balance. Here’s what works for me and might help you, too:

Location is key: I keep my main spider plant in a hanging basket, just out of easy reach. This minimizes temptation while still allowing its beautiful arching leaves to be on display.
Offer a sacrifice: I keep a smaller, more accessible pot of cat grass nearby. This gives my cat a safe, designated plant to chew on, which often distracts him from my other greenery.
Monitor consumption: Keep an eye on how much your cat is actually eating. A little nibble here and there is fine, but if they\'re mowing it down like a salad bar, it\'s best to move the plant.

Ultimately, having spider plants in my home has been a joy. They bring so much life to a space without bringing the stress and worry that toxic plants do. As with any aspect of pet care, it\'s about being informed and observant. While this has been my experience, I always recommend chatting with your vet if you have any specific concerns about your pet\'s health or diet.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why is my cat so obsessed with eating my spider plant?

Cats are often attracted to spider plants for two main reasons. First, the long, dangling leaves are enticing and fun to bat at and chew. Second, spider plants contain chemical compounds that can produce a mild, harmless hallucinogenic effect similar to catnip, which many cats find euphoric.

What should I do if my cat eats a lot of spider plant?

While spider plants are non-toxic, consuming a large amount can cause mild gastrointestinal upset like vomiting or diarrhea. If you notice your cat has eaten a lot, simply monitor them for any symptoms. The discomfort is usually mild and passes quickly. However, I always advise checking in with your vet if you're concerned or if symptoms persist.

Are the 'spiderettes' or baby spider plants also safe for cats?

Yes, the entire spider plant, including the main leaves, the stem, and the small 'spiderettes' or plantlets that hang down, is considered non-toxic and safe for cats. The safety profile applies to all parts of the plant.

What are some other cat-safe houseplants I can get?

Creating a pet-safe indoor garden is wonderful! Besides spider plants, some other popular and safe options I've had success with include the Boston Fern, Calathea (Prayer Plant), Parlor Palm, and the Money Tree. Always double-check any new plant with a reliable source like the ASPCA's list.

Is there a difference between a spider plant being 'non-toxic' and 'safe'?

Yes, that's a great question and an important distinction I've learned to make. 'Non-toxic' means the plant does not contain compounds that will poison your pet. 'Safe' is a broader term. While a spider plant is non-toxic, eating too much of it can still cause mild stomach upset. So, while it won't cause serious harm, moderation is key for it to be completely 'safe' without any side effects.