Pet-friendly plants

If you've got a four-legged flatmate with a bit more fur, then you'll know a thing or two about their adventurous spirit, especially when it comes to culinary experiences. What we mean is that any self-respecting dog or cat will be tempted to supplement their diet with your houseplants, so it's vitally important to know if your cute plant is pet-friendly or if it can cause them any harm. want to know which plants are safe for pets? Use our smart search engine or read on, because we'll explain in detail.

why does my pet eat plants?

There is a myth that dogs and cats eat plants and herbs to purge themselves or because their stomachs hurt. This is not true, as this study proves. Ethologists say this behaviour may be due to simple curiosity and pleasure, because they like the texture of the plant or its smell; but it may also be due to vestigial behaviour from their wild ancestors, who ingested plants to cleanse their intestinal tract of certain types of parasites and to supplement their fibre intake.

It is not a behaviour to be concerned about, but you should be careful about the type of plant you have in your home, as they can cause serious problems for your pet; poisoning and even death. It is possible to train your pets not to chew on plants, but it is better to play it safe and prefer those that do not pose any danger. The goal is to get them a good scolding after chewing a plant, not a visit to the vet.

Houseplants NOT suitable for pets

• Lilies

These beautiful flowers in a variety of colours and shapes are a delight to anyone, but they're deadly to cats and toxic to dogs. They cause vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach pains and eventually kidney and liver damage. Beware even flowers that may come in a gift bouquet.

• Potos

Plants in this family have a medium toxicity, which, while less fulminant, can still endanger your furry friend's health. They cause oral irritation, excessive salivation, swelling of the tongue and mouth, as well as vomiting and diarrhoea.

• Adam's Rib

All plants in the philodendron family have a moderate level of toxicity to dogs and cats. It affects their mucous membranes, causing irritation and inflammation; plus vomiting and diarrhoea. It is best to keep them away.

• Jade and Aloe vera

Although aloe vera is medicinal for humans, it causes digestive problems in dogs and cats, as does jade. Some of the symptoms they produce are lack of appetite, vomiting, diarrhoea, irritation, excessive salivation and even trembling.

Super-safe plants for your pets

Even if you have a cute and curious furry friend, it is possible to have plants at home that are not made of plastic (those can bite too, believe me). While ideally you should train your pets not to supplement their diet with your plants, there are a few species that are 100% safe and won't cause health problems.

Before buying plants, it is essential that you know whether or not they are compatible with your pets and small children. At Be Green we care about your health and the health of the most vulnerable. If you shop in our online shop, you can use the smart search engine to choose plants that are safe and if you enter the description of each species, you will see directly if they are suitable or not. Some of the plants that you can have at home are:

• Kentia palm:

It is perfect for places with little light and will become your kitty's playground. Because of its height they may be tempted to swing on its branches, but don't worry because it won't cause them any harm.

• Chinese Money Plant

This plant will bring prosperity to your home, and while it likes damp environments it can adapt to almost any lighting conditions. You may get small teeth marks on its leaves, but don't worry it is not only safe but grows very easily.

• olive Tree

Symbol of peace and prosperity, they are very drought resistant but like to be in well-lit spaces. Don't be surprised to find your kitty napping under its small branches.

One last tip: if you want to prevent your pet from chewing your plants, you can spray them with a spray containing water and vinegar. The taste and smell will be unpleasant for them and they will avoid having them around, but it won't be harmful to their health.