Keep These Common Houseplants Away From Cats and Dogs

by Rachel M.

Published: May 21st, 2026

Houseplants can make a home feel fresh and cozy, but not every plant is safe for pets.

Cats and dogs are naturally curious, and many enjoy nibbling on leaves or digging in pots.

Unfortunately, some popular indoor plants can cause serious health problems for our furry friends.

Here are six common houseplants pet owners should be cautious about. Please note, this list isn’t exhaustive!

Pothos - image via Canva

1. Pothos
2. Lilies
3. Monstera
4. Aloe Vera
5. Sago Palm
6. Snake Plant

1. Pothos

Pothos plants are popular because they’re low-maintenance and have those long, trailing vines, but they can irritate a pet’s mouth and stomach if chewed.

If a pet bites into a pothos plant, you might notice heavy drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, or trouble swallowing from the burning sensation it causes.

Pothos poisoning isn’t usually life-threatening, but it can still be uncomfortable and upsetting for your pet.

2. Lilies

Lilies are one of the most dangerous plants for cats.

Even a tiny amount — such as pollen on their fur or a small bite of a leaf — can lead to severe kidney damage.

Dogs are usually less sensitive, but lilies can still upset their stomachs.

Signs of poisoning may include vomiting, tiredness, drooling, and loss of appetite. If a cat comes into contact with a lily, contact your vet right away.

3. Monstera

Monstera plants have become incredibly popular because of their large tropical leaves, but they’re not pet-friendly.

Like pothos, they contain crystals that can irritate the mouth and throat.

If a cat or dog bites into a Monstera leaf, symptoms may include drooling, swelling around the mouth, vomiting, and discomfort while eating or drinking.

Monstera - image via Canva

4. Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is often kept around for its soothing gel, but the plant itself can be harmful to cats and dogs if they chew on it. The outer parts contain compounds that can upset a pet’s stomach.

If a pet gets into aloe, you might see vomiting, diarrhea, or low energy, and in more serious cases, even tremors.

5. Sago Palm

Sago palms are highly toxic, especially for dogs. Every part of the plant is dangerous, but the seeds are the most poisonous.

Even a small amount can cause severe liver damage. Symptoms may begin with vomiting or diarrhea and quickly progress to weakness, seizures, or worse.

Because of the serious risk, many vets recommend avoiding sago palms completely in homes with pets.

Snake Plant - image via Canva

6. Snake Plant

Snake plants are popular for a reason—they’re tough and low-maintenance—but they can cause issues for pets if they’re chewed on.

If a cat or dog nibbles one, the natural compounds in the plant can lead to nausea, vomiting, drooling, or diarrhea.

To stay on the safe side, it’s best to keep snake plants somewhere out of reach so curious pets aren’t tempted to take a bite.

How to Keep Your Pets Safe

Before bringing home a new plant, it’s always a good idea to check whether it’s toxic to animals.

If you think your cat or dog has eaten a toxic plant, contact your vet right away. Quick treatment can prevent more serious complications and help your pet recover safely.

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Top stories

Keep These Common Houseplants Away From Cats and Dogs

Table of contents

1. Pothos

2. Lilies

3. Monstera

4. Aloe Vera

5. Sago Palm

6. Snake Plant

How to Keep Your Pets Safe

Next up...

5 Summer Fruits Your Dog Mustn't Eat

How to Protect Your Cat from Ticks

How to Protect Your Cat from Ticks

Top stories

Keep These Common Houseplants Away From Cats and Dogs

Table of contents

1. Pothos

2. Lilies

3. Monstera

4. Aloe Vera

5. Sago Palm

6. Snake Plant

How to Keep Your Pets Safe

Next up...

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