comScore
CASACOR
Landscaping

7 pet-safe plants for homes with pets

When choosing plants that are good for your pet, the house becomes a safer space and aligned with the routine of those who live with animals.

By CASACOR Publisher

Submitted at Feb 12, 2026, 3:40 PM

08 min de leitura
Cachorro no jardim

Cachorro no jardim (Freepik/Divulgação)

Having pets at home changes the way we think about spaces — including green ones! In houses and apartments, gardens, balconies, and indoor areas need to consider the circulation, habits, and natural curiosity of dogs and cats. In this context, choosing plants that are good for pets is no longer just a detail but becomes an essential decision.

By prioritizing beneficial plants, it is possible to create balanced compositions, visually interesting and, at the same time, safe. Therefore, information and planning are the main allies in this process. Learn more below!

Why is the choice of plants so important?


Many ornamental species widely used in interiors and gardens can be toxic to dogs and cats. Leaves, flowers, or even the sap of certain plants can cause symptoms such as vomiting, irritations, excessive salivation, and in more severe cases, systemic complications. Since pets explore projects through smell and taste, the risk of accidental ingestion is real.

Cat and plants

Gato e plantas (Freepik/Divulgação)

Opting for plants that are beneficial significantly reduces these risks and brings more tranquility to the routine. In addition, a conscious project avoids future replacements and rework in landscaping. The correct choice of species also contributes to a more functional environment, where aesthetics and safety go hand in hand.

7 plants that are good for your pet


When selecting species for a home with animals, it is important to consider not only the absence of toxicity but also the sensory and behavioral impact they may have on the project. Some plants that are beneficial contribute to a more balanced, stimulating, and safe space. Among them are:

Lavender

Lavender is known for its mild aroma, often associated with feelings of relaxation. In outdoor environments or balconies, it can help create a calmer atmosphere, which also benefits more anxious animals. Additionally, it is considered a safe species when grown without aggressive chemical additives.

What is the ideal watering for lavender?

Qual a rega ideal para lavanda (Unsplash/Divulgação)

Lemongrass

Lemongrass is on the list of plants that are good for pets and does not present significant toxicity. Additionally, its citrus aroma helps to repel unwanted insects and make the project more stimulating for both humans and animals.

lemon grass; citronella; lemongrass

capim santo; capim limão; capim cidreira (Manual do Jardim/Divulgação)

Basil

Functional in the kitchen, basil is an interesting choice for homes with pets due to its safety. Its presence in home gardens enhances the connection between landscaping and everyday use, and it can even be used to improve the pet's digestion — as long as it is in small quantities!

Basil in the pot; Basil (Ocimum basilicum).

Manjericão no vaso; Manjericão (Ocimum basilicum). (Lavi Perchik/Unsplash/Divulgação)

Rosemary

Rosemary is a resilient aromatic plant and is considered non-toxic for dogs and cats. By opting for species like this, it is possible to ensure a new seasoning option for the pets' food. In outdoor areas, it can also help define spaces and create structured flowerbeds.

How to grow rosemary

como cultivar alecrim (Pixabay/Divulgação)

Bamboo

The ornamental varieties of bamboo are indicated for projects with animals as they do not exhibit known toxicity. Additionally, they help structure the space, creating natural barriers or shady areas. Among the plants that are good for pets, they stand out for combining landscaping function with a natural refuge for animals to hide from the sun.

Lucky Bamboo

Bambu da Sorte (Pixabay/Divulgação)

Orchid

Frequent in interiors, the orchid is valued for its elegance and, at the same time, is safe for cohabitation with pets. In homes with cats, especially the more curious ones, choosing ornamental plants that do not pose a risk of intoxication is a fundamental preventive measure.

Bamboo Orchid

Orquídea-bambu (Unsplash/Divulgação)

Sunflower

The sunflower, with its striking presence, is generally considered non-toxic to pets. In gardens, it can create points of visual interest without posing a danger if the pet comes into contact with leaves or flowers. It is an alternative for those looking for aesthetic impact combined with safety, in addition to attracting pollinators to the garden.

Sunflower (Helianthus annuus).

Girassol (Helianthus annuus). (Luc LEROY-DERENNE/Flickr/Divulgação)

Care beyond plant selection


Ensuring a safe project involves more than just selecting the right species. The use of fertilizers, insecticides, and manures must be done carefully, prioritizing organic alternatives and keeping any chemical product out of reach of animals. Even safe plants can become a risk when exposed to toxic substances.

Dog with plants

Cachorro com plantas (Freepik/Divulgação)

The organization of the space also makes a difference. Raised beds, suspended pots, and definition of areas help protect both the landscaping and the pet. Observing the animal's behavior — whether it digs, chews leaves, or circulates intensely in certain areas, for example — also helps with adjustments in the project.

CASACOR Publisher is an exclusive content creator agent, developed by the Technology team at CASACOR based on the knowledge base of casacor.com.br. This text was edited by Yeska Coelho.