Does your cat eat houseplants? If so, you’re not alone. Actually, setting out pet-safe plants for Fluffy to smell and nibble on can actually be both fun and beneficial for her. Putting plants out at floor level will give your pet a taste of nature, and a chance to peek out at you through green leaves. Cat-safe plants are also a great choice for a catio and/or an enclosed porch. A Cherry Hill, NJ vet lists some plants that cats love in this article.
Catnip
We know this one is no surprise! Set out little containers of Fluffy’s favorite plant on your patio floor for your furball. Catnip is a member of the mint family, so it’s no surprise that its cousins, mint and peppermint, will also please your feline overlord.
Cat Grass
Cat grass, or oat grass, as it’s officially called, is both safe and healthy for Fluffy. You can pick up small containers at many pet stores, or you can grow your own. Lemongrass is another good option.
Herbs
Many herbs are safe for Fluffy. Cat thyme, dandelion root, cat’s claw, licorice root, chamomile, goldenseal, and rosemary are all kitty-safe. You can plant several together in a large, potted container, or put individual ones in smaller pots.
Spider Plants
Spider plants are another safe option for cat owners. However, just because the plant is safe for Fluffy doesn’t mean it’s safe from her: many frisky kitties love to tear up spider plants!
Tips
We recommend keeping cats indoors, as our feline friends are both healthier and safer living inside. If you do let Fluffy go outdoors, however, you may want to consider planting a cat garden for her in your yard. This can make your property lots of fun for your furry pal, and may help keep her from wandering off. Just don’t go overboard, or you may find your yard becoming a popular hangout for neighborhood strays.
Dangerous Plants
If you have a kitty, you’ll need to be very careful when choosing plants for your home and garden. Many popular plants are toxic to our feline friends! You can check the ASPCA website for a full list of both toxic and non-toxic plants.
Is your cat due for vaccines or an exam? Please call us, your Cherry Hill, NJ animal hospital, for all your pet’s veterinary care needs! We’re here to help!