Got pets and plants under the same roof? Discover if air plants are safe for your curious cats and dogs, with fun stories and helpful facts.
If you’re both a plant lover and a proud pet parent, you’ve probably worried about whether your leafy decor is safe for your fur babies. And when it comes to air plants—those quirky, soil-free wonders—the good news is, you can breathe easy. Here’s what we’ve seen firsthand, along with a few key points to consider.
Good News for Pet Owners
Through accidental testing on our cats and pups, it appears that Tillandsia, also known as air plants, are non-toxic. We do not make any claims based on the scientific research, but anecdotally, we’ve never come across any cases that suggest they’re harmful to pets with a habit of nibbling on your favorite houseplants.
In fact, according to the ASPCA and other pet safety databases, Tillandsias are not listed as toxic to dogs or cats, which definitely gives pet parents some peace of mind.
Your Pets Will Love Them!
They are so appealing to our furry friends that we can’t keep a single air plant in the house—our cat devours them like treats. Whole plants have disappeared or shown up mangled after a late-night case of the feline munchies.
Our dog carefully watches us move the Tillandsias around the outdoor nursery, and if one drops, he gently picks it up and relocates it to a spot of his choice.
A whole display of air plants has found its way in front of his bed, hinting at either a newfound interest in interior design or the start of a canine collecting trend.
We’ve even caught him gently guarding his favorite piece, like it’s a treasured bone. Air plants make surprisingly great roommates—even for our four-legged family members!
Long Story Short
The short answer is yes, air plants are safe for cats and dogs. Just remember, while they’re non-toxic, consuming too many might still upset a sensitive stomach.
So if your pet loves snacking on greenery, a little self-control—or plant placement—goes a long way. Well, we welcome any comments, feedback, or research from our readers that might say otherwise.