Non-Toxic Garden Plants for Cats

Garden plants bring life and color to every garden. For many pet owners, however, it is important that plants are not only beautiful but also pet-friendly. Cats, in particular, are known to nibble on plants or play with them. Therefore, it is good to know which plants are safe for cats and still turn your garden into a paradise. In this blog, you will read why cats eat plants and which garden plants are not toxic to cats.

Why do cats eat plants?

Cats are naturally curious animals. Even if they are given good food, they may sometimes still nibble on plants. This can be for various reasons:

• Digestion: Some cats eat grass or leaves to stimulate their digestion or to get rid of hairballs.

• Boredom or play behavior: Plants move in the wind or smell interesting, which invites cats to play or nibble.

• Nutrient deficiency: A lack of fiber or certain nutrients can cause cats to seek alternative sources in plants.

Unfortunately, many plants are toxic to cats. That is why it is smart to consciously choose cat-friendly plants.

Which plants are not toxic to cats?

Below you will find a list of cat-friendly garden plants that are not toxic to cats and contribute to a colorful, lively, and pet-friendly garden.

1. Lavender (Lavandula Angustifolia)

Although some lavender varieties can be mildly irritating if ingested in large quantities, true lavender is generally considered non-toxic to cats. The plant has a calming scent and attracts bees and butterflies. Please note: essential lavender oil *is* toxic. So use only the plant itself in the garden.

2. Butterfly bush (Buddleja davidii)

The butterfly bush is a popular garden plant that, as the name suggests, attracts many butterflies. Fortunately, this shrub is not poisonous to cats. They will mostly sniff at it out of curiosity, but generally leave it alone.

3. Trumpet Flower (Campsis Radicans)

The Trumpet Flower, also known as trumpet climber, is a striking plant with bright orange flowers. This plant is not toxic to cats, although the stems can be somewhat sharp. Perfect for a colorful garden with climbing plants.

4. Agastache (Hyssop)

Agastache is known for its sweet scent and attracts many bees and butterflies. This plant is completely safe for cats and is also aromatic. Cats often enjoy rubbing against it.

5. Aster

Asters bloom in the autumn and are available in a variety of colors. These flowers are non-toxic to cats and make a beautiful addition to any border. They also attract beneficial insects.

6. Carex (Sedge)

Carex, or Sedge, is an ornamental grass that does well in borders or as a ground cover. It is safe for cats, even if they occasionally nibble on a blade. The leaves are soft and provide a nice hiding place.

7. Coneflower (Echinacea)

The Coneflower is a beautiful perennial plant with a sturdy flower. This plant is not toxic to cats and even has medicinal properties (for humans). Cats probably won't nibble on it, but it is safe if they do.

8. Geranium (Crane's-bill)

Note: only true Geraniums (Geranium spp.), also known as crane's-bill, are safe for cats. The popular balcony plant Pelargonium, which is often also called “geranium”, is toxic. The perennial species from the Geranium family are safe and popular in natural gardens.

9. Purple Bell (Heuchera)

Purple Bell, with its beautiful colored leaves, is a safe choice for gardens with cats. The plant is non-toxic and provides both color and structure in borders or shady spots.

10. Hypericum (St. John's Wort)

Hypericum, also known as St. John's Wort, is a sturdy shrub with bright yellow flowers. This plant is safe for cats. Moreover, it is often used as a ground cover or low hedge.

11. Lily Grass (Liriope Muscari)

Lily Grass looks like ornamental grass, but also blooms with beautiful purple flowers. This low-maintenance plant is non-toxic to cats and thrives in both sun and shade.

12. Catnip (Nepeta)

Not surprisingly, catnip is the favorite of many cats. The fragrant leaves have a calming and stimulating effect on cats. The plant is completely safe, blooms profusely, and is also an excellent bee plant. A real must-have in the animal-friendly garden.

A beautiful garden does not have to come at the expense of the safety of your cat. With this list of non-toxic garden plants, you can make your garden greener and more pet-friendly, worry-free. Choose a mix of scent, color, and texture and keep your cat safe and healthy.