House Plants That Are Safe for My Small Pet to Be Around?

Safe Houseplants for Small Pets

As a small pet owner, you should familiarize yourself with the specifics of their care and take notice which types of plants, both inside and outside, pose a hazard to them. Rabbits, chinchillas, guinea pigs and other pocket pets are naturally attracted to greenery in their environments and will chew anything. Small pet owners must be especially careful about their choice of indoor houseplants, which can easily become a poisonous snack for your furry friend.

Have no fear though, we want to make caring for your small pet a little easier by giving you a few pet approved plants that you can safely keep indoors!

Jade Plant

The jade plant has been a favorite for indoor gardeners for many years, due to its attractive foliage and easy maintenance. It’s compact size and rounded, oblong leaves look good in any environment. It is a succulent shrub that does best in conditions with abundant light and careful watering. If your small pet ends up nibbling on the plant, no harm will come to them!

Roses

Although you may not think of roses as indoor plants, you can grow them indoors with a little extra care and attention. Many indoor gardeners enjoy tending to their miniature rose plants and chinchillas often have a special fondness for the rose petals. You will have to be particularly careful about using insecticides and fertilizers though.

Violets

Violets are generally safe for small pets to consume. Violet plants produce small purple or blue flowers that add a cheery note to your home. However, this offering comes with a caveat. Be aware that some plants referred to as “violets" are not truly from the Viola genius family, like the African Violet. Do careful research of the plant you are purchasing before bringing them into your home so you can avoid bringing in a hazard to your rabbit or other small pet.

Lavender

Lavender is an interesting plant to grow indoors because it provides seasoning for cooking, as well as fragrant blooms for potpourri. However, the plant requires plenty of light and good airflow to help it get to the blooming stage. It is safe for rabbits and other small pets to eat, although some don’t find it a desirable chewing option. So, this plant may be the safest from unwanted nibbles!

Wheatgrass

Wheatgrass is another plant that can be grown indoors and isn’t harmful to your furry friend. Many people keep one of these plants on-hand to use in juices and smoothies. Not only can it be nutritious for you, but it can also be a lovely piece of greenery to have in your home.

Offer Healthy Chewing Alternatives

Just because your house plants won’t poison your small pet doesn’t mean you want it eating them all the time. To help keep it from chewing on your plants, it’s important that they always have fresh grass hay available to them. Rabbits, guinea pigs, and chinchillas should have a diet made up of mostly grass hay which is good for both their digestive system and their dental health.

You can also give them Apple Chew Sticks or Willow Chew Sticks to keep them entertained and away from your houseplants. Bonus, it will help to wear down their ever-growing teeth!