Calathea plants, also called prayer plants, are known for their beautiful leaves that move like hands in prayer. They are safe for cats and dogs, so you don’t have to worry if your pet chews on them.
If your pet nibbles on a Calathea, it won’t cause serious harm. The ASPCA confirms that these plants are safe for pets. This makes Calatheas a great choice for pet-friendly homes.
What Makes Calathea Plants Special?
Calathea plants are unique because their leaves move in response to light, raising and lowering like hands in prayer. This fascinating leaf movement is called nyctinasty.
Native to tropical forests, Calatheas thrive in shady, humid environments. They do best with indirect light, making them great indoor plants.
Popular Calathea Varieties
Calathea plants come in many types, such as:
- Rattlesnake Plant: Narrow green leaves with dark markings.
- Pinstripe Calathea: Green leaves with pink pinstripes.
- Rose-Painted Calathea: Large leaves with colorful, painted patterns.
- Velvet Calathea: Soft leaves with green and purple shades.
- Peacock Plant: Leaves that look like peacock feathers.
- Orbifolia: Round leaves with silvery-green stripes.
Calatheas don’t bloom often indoors, but the Crocata variety can produce orange flowers.
Are Calathea Plants Safe for Pets?
Calathea plants are non-toxic. They don’t have harmful compounds, unlike other plants that may be toxic to pets. Their thick leaves also make them less likely to be chewed on by pets.
What If My Pet Eats a Calathea?
Even though Calatheas aren’t toxic, eating too much of any plant can upset your pet’s stomach. Symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, drooling, or loss of appetite might happen if your pet eats too much.
If you’re concerned, call your vet.
How to Keep Pets Away from Calathea Plants
To avoid digestive problems, follow these tips:
- Keep plants out of reach: Put them in places where pets can’t reach, like high shelves or hanging baskets.
- Use deterrents: Spray leaves with lemon juice or sprinkle cayenne pepper to keep pets away.
- Offer other things to chew: Provide safe chew toys or plants like catnip.
- Train pets: Use rewards to teach pets not to chew on plants.
Caring for Your Calathea Plant
Calatheas are easy to care for with a few simple needs:
- Light: Bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight.
- Water: Keep soil moist but not soaked. Water when the top of the soil feels dry.
- Humidity: Calatheas need humidity. Mist leaves or use a humidifier.
- Temperature: Keep them in a warm room, between 65-80°F (18-27°C).
- Soil: Use a potting mix that drains well but holds moisture.
- Fertilizer: Fertilize monthly during the growing season with diluted liquid fertilizer.
- Pruning: Remove any yellow or damaged leaves.
Benefits of Calathea Plants
Calatheas offer many benefits, such as:
- Air purification: They help clean the air by removing toxins.
- Stress relief: Being around plants can lower stress and boost mood.
Conclusion
Calathea plants are beautiful, safe, and easy to care for. They’re a perfect choice for pet owners who want to enjoy stunning plants without worrying about their pets. Keep your Calathea plants healthy and pet-friendly with the right care and precautions.