How to Keep Cats Away from Plants—Without Wrecking Your Indoor Jungle

If you’re looking for ways to keep cats away from plants, you’re in the right place. You’ll discover novel ways to keep houseplants safe, and also a list of toxic and non-toxic plants to be aware of.

Protecting beloved houseplants from our furry friends is a top priority for plant parents and pet lovers. And nothing ruins a lush indoor jungle like a curious cat with a taste for your plants. We’ve all been there—potting soil everywhere. Half the leaves gone. And a smug little furball sitting in the mess like it’s art.

Table of Contents

• Why Do Cats Eat Plants, Dig Soil, or Knock Over Pots?
• Curiosity, Cravings, or Just Bored (What Science Says)?
• First, Make Sure Your Plants Are Safe for Cats
• Common Houseplants That Are Toxic to Cats
• Best Non-Toxic Indoor Plants for Pet Parents
• Quick Check: Use This Toxicity List Before You Buy
• How to Keep Cats Away from Plants Naturally
• DIY Cat Deterrent Spray (That’s Safe for Plants)
• How to Keep Cats Out of Potted Plants
• Cat-Proof Your Indoor Plants—Stylishly
• How to Train Cats to Stay Away from Plants
• How to Keep Cats Away from Indoor Plants in Small Spaces
• Try a Cat Garden Instead (Yes, It Works!)
• What Plants Do Cats Hate? (Use These to Deter Them)
• FAQs About Keeping Cats Away From Houseplants

The thing is, keeping cats away from houseplants is more than just about preserving aesthetics. You need to protect your leafy plants, your pet’s health, furniture, and your sanity. After all, your home should feel calm, clean, and alive. But something’s got to give if your snake plant’s shredded, the prayer plant’s been upturned again, and you’re Googling “safe sprays” at midnight.

As most plant parents with cats know, their obsession with indoor plants isn’t a one-off problem. The combination of houseplants that are toxic to cats and their instinct to dig, swat, or chew anything that smells like outdoors can turn your living room into a battlefield. And probably a few trips to the vet.

The good news? You can absolutely keep your houseplants thriving and ensure your cat ignores them.

Read on to discover how to protect your plants, keep your cat safe, and finally stop the cycle of destruction.

Why Do Cats Eat Plants, Dig Soil, or Knock Over Pots?

Your prayer plant didn’t stand a chance. One minute it’s soaking up sun—next, it’s flipped over, soil everywhere, and your cat’s proudly sitting in the middle like she’s done you a favor.

Cat people know: this isn’t random. Whether they’re chewing leaves, digging in fresh potting soil, or launching snake plants off shelves at 3 a.m., cats seem weirdly committed to wrecking your greenery.

But there’s a reason for the madness—and no, it’s not just spite. Understanding what’s behind the behavior is step one to fixing it (or at least outsmarting it).

Need snake-plant-specific fixes? Open “How to keep cats away from snake plants” for focused tips, from chicken wire and tin foil to safe swaps like prayer plant and Peperomia.

Curiosity, Cravings, or Just Bored (What Science Says)?

What’s going on with your four-legged furry friend that they seem intent on ruining your indoor garden and causing mayhem? Most cat owners assume it’s random chaos. But that’s not what science says. In one word—instinct.

A UC Davis study surveyed over 1,000 cat owners and found that up to 71% of cats chew plants weekly. Why? Your cat’s not bored, it’s precisely what thousands of other cats do. And get this—around 30% puke after. Is that a problem? Nope. Just part of the loop.

Now, layer in the other stuff: the soil feels good to dig in. The leaf texture is irresistible. And if your place is quiet and full of “don’t touch this” stuff? Game on. The “Home Sweet Home” study even found that cats raised in active environments were more persistent problem solvers. Translation? Your clever indoor cat is gonna mess with something.

How can you solve the problem? Redirect that feline energy with purpose. Think cat grass, sensory play, and layout changes. That’s how you win back your jungle.

If you’re wondering, “Will my cat ever stop destroying my plants?”, we’ve got the answer here.

First, Make Sure Your Plants Are Safe for Cats

Before we talk sprays & repellants, deterrents, or layout tricks—let’s talk safety. Because not all houseplants are just “decor” when you’ve got a cat.

Some of the most common indoor plants are quietly toxic. One nibble from a curious cat can mean vomiting, drooling, or worse. And here’s the hard truth: if your jungle isn’t pet-safe, every other trick in this article is just damage control.

Did you know? Some plants with purple and white flowers are toxic to cats and you should keep your furry feline friends away from them.

Start here. Know what’s dangerous, what’s safe, and what to check before you bring anything new home.

Common Houseplants That Are Toxic to Cats

Some of the most popular houseplants are also the most dangerous to cats. Think lilies, pothos, ZZ plants, peace lilies, and sago palm. Even aloe vera and snake plant—often seen as “low-maintenance” staples—can cause vomiting, lethargy, or worse if chewed.

If your cat’s a chewer, assume risk is high. Even brushing past a toxic plant and licking their fur can be enough to trigger symptoms.

Here’s what the ASPCA says:

Mildly toxic:

• Calla Lily (Zantedeschia aethiopica)
• Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrate)
• Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
• Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum spp.)
• Philodendron
• English Ivy (Hedera helix)
• Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)

Moderately toxic plants:

• Dragon tree (Dracaena spp.)
• Jade plant (Crassula ovata)

Severely toxic plants for cats:

• Sago palm (Cycas revoluta)
• Easter lily (Lilium longiflorum)

Worried about snake plants and pet safety?
Snake plant flowers are stunning—but not exactly cat-friendly. If you grow snake plants and have cats, read this toxicity guide before deciding on placement or deterrents. You’ll also discover what to do if your four-legged furry friend takes a bite.

Best Non-Toxic Indoor Plants for Pet Parents

Think safe means boring? Nope. There’s a whole lineup of plants that won’t poison your cat—and they actually look good. We’re talking bounce-back ferns, drama-free Peperomias, and Calatheas that don’t need a spotlight. Let your jungle thrive without the panic. 

Here are the top ten indoor plants the ASPCA says are non-toxic to cats:

• Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
• Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans)
• Prayer Plant (Maranta leuconeura)
• Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens)
• Peperomia Obtusifolia (Baby Rubber Plant)
• Calathea Freddie (Calathea concinna ‘Freddie’)
• Ponytail Palm (Beaucarnea recurvata)
• Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
• Bamboo Palm (Chamaedorea seifrizii)
• African Violet (Saintpaulia spp.)

If you love hoya plants, you’ll be glad to know that most types of hoyas are nontoxic to cats and dogs. However, you probably still want to keep your collection of hoyas away from cats, especially if you’ve got many rare and unusual hoya varieties.

Looking for cat-safe plants with bold color? Explore our list of purple houseplants—including pet-friendly picks for every corner of your home.

Quick Check: Use This Toxicity List Before You Buy

How to Keep Cats Away from Plants Naturally

How do you keep cats away from plants without using toxic sprays? I usually start with smells they hate and textures they avoid. Think citrus rinds, vinegar, sticky tape, and even coffee grounds can help. Some pet parents swear by DIY sprays. Others use forks, foil, or pinecones in the soil.

You’ve got options—and they don’t have to wreck your vibe. Let’s dive deeper into the various options.

Citrus, Vinegar, and Coffee Grounds—Do They Work?

Citrus smell and rinds as a natural cat deterrent

Most cats hate the smell of citrus, but it’s not just a harmless repellent. Citrus rinds contain limonene, psoralens, and essential oils can make cats sick. Even a curious lick could mean trouble. Use peels cautiously and always out of reach. The scent alone is usually enough.

Dr. Teresa Manucy at PetMD says that compounds in citrus fruit rinds can cause vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, lethargy, skin irritation, and tremors.

Vinegar: A Budget-Friendly Repellent

Vinegar works because cats hate the smell. Just mix it 1:1 with water and spray near plants or entry spots—never directly on leaves. Always test first to avoid staining. It won’t harm cats, but the strong scent usually keeps them away. Reapply often, especially after watering or rain. 

Coffee grounds to deter cats—are the safe?

Used coffee grounds might repel cats, but they’re risky. Caffeine is toxic—even small amounts can cause vomiting or rapid breathing. Worse, cats can lick it off their paws after walking through it. If you try this trick, keep it well-contained and far from curious paws and tongues. Proceed with caution.

Scientists say that symptoms of coffee poisoning include rapid breathing, muscle tremors, abnormal heart rhythms, seizures, and even death.

What About Essential Oils? Read This First

Using essential oils to keep cats off house plants is tricky. Researchers at the American College of Healthcare Sciences say that cats are exceptionally sensitive to essential oils, and some are toxic. However, dilution is key to ensure your cat’s safety when creating a DIY cat spray for plants.

Essential oils regarded as safe for cats include:

• Lemon Oil (Citrus limonum) – do not overuse
• Orange Oil (Citrus sinensis) – do not overuse
• Lavender Oil (Lavandula angustifolia)
• Chamomile Oil (Chamaemelum nobile)
• Peppermint Oil (Mentha ^xpiperita) – do not overuse

Recipe for a Pet-Safe DIY Spray

Ingredients:

• 1 cup distilled water
• 1 cup white vinegar
• 10 drops lavender essential oil (safe when diluted)
• 1 small squirt of unscented liquid hand soap

Instructions:

1. Add water and vinegar to a clean spray bottle.
2. Mix in the essential oil and a squirt of soap.
3. Shake well before each use.

How to Use:
Spray around the base of pots, planter edges, or nearby surfaces—not directly on plant leaves. Reapply every few days or after watering.

It’s cat-deterring, plant-safe, and easy to make with what you’ve got at home. 

🧪 Tried and Tested: The DIY Spray That Helped

“I make my own pepper spray with water, red pepper flakes, and citrus peel. Reapply every few months—cheap and worked better than store brands.” – r/houseplants 

How to Keep Cats Out of Potted Plants

 Cats don’t all play by the same rules. What works on one will be a total joke to another.

Some ignore foil. Others nap on pinecones. If you want to keep your cat out of your potted plants, expect a little trial, a lot of error, and a few unexpected wins.

Use Pebbles, Pinecones, and Mesh Barriers

Think rocks and pinecones will stop your cat? Maybe. Maybe not.

Some folks swear by a layer of river stones or chicken wire. One Reddit user said, “The pinecones worked like a charm—he wouldn’t go near it.” Another? “Mine naps on them like it’s a forest bed.”

It’s worth trying—but don’t bank on it. 

Pot Design Tricks That Discourage Digging

Shallow, wide pots? Basically a sandbox. But go deep, narrow, or raised—and suddenly your plant’s not so fun anymore.

One Reddit user said their cat “ignored anything with a lip taller than 8 inches.” Another rigged a tomato cage upside down. Genius or chaotic? Honestly, both.
Just don’t give your cat easy access and call it fixed. 

Covering Soil Without Blocking Drainage

Cats love open soil—but that doesn’t mean you have to ruin your plant’s drainage to stop them. Use breathable mesh, coconut fiber mats, or river pebbles spaced just wide enough for water to pass through. Always avoid plastic wrap or aluminum foil—they trap moisture and harm roots.

From reading countless posts on houseplant Reddit threads, it seems that users had mixed results—some cats backed off, others got more curious. 

Cat-Proof Your Indoor Plants—Stylishly

Want to stop the digging and keep your living room cute? Elevate everything.

Mount shelves. Hang plants. Block low zones. It’s cat-proofing without ruining your vibe. Some Reddit users went full vertical—“She stopped chewing once she couldn’t reach the plants.” Others used mirrors and bookshelves as sneaky no-cat zones. 

Hanging Planters, Floating Shelves, and High Zones

Simple fact: Cats can’t dig what they can’t reach.

Hang plants from hooks. Use floating shelves above eye level. Reddit cat parents said, “Putting them up high saved me from daily pot flips.”

Bonus: plants get more light, and you get your floor back. Just don’t skip the wall anchors. 

Use Visual Barriers That Blend Into Decor

Sometimes it’s about subtle cues. Decorative screens, tall books, or even curio cabinets can block plant access while blending into your style. Cats are visual hunters—if it looks blocked, they often don’t try. One user said, “He stopped trying once the path was awkward.”

Other suggestions from plant fourms include Use furniture, room dividers, or art to block access. A Reddit user said, “Stacked books worked better than tinfoil—she lost interest.”

🔒 Safe Zone Solution: IKEA Hack for Plant Peace

“Bought a cheap armoire, lined it with clear plastic, and turned it into a plant cabinet. Holds ten plants and keeps kitty out.”

Combine Real + Faux Plants for Risky Spots

How to Train Cats to Stay Away from Plants

The good news: You don’t need to battle your cat every day. Cats can learn, not by yelling, but by making better options irresistible. Our furry companions respond to consistency, rewards, and smart environmental design. Punishment (like spray bottles) rarely works and often backfires.

Redirect Behavior with Cat Grass or Catnip

 Offer an alternative that cats actually prefer. The thing is that chewing’s a thing. It’s their instinct and you and you won’t train it out. So give them something better. Grow a pot of cat grass near their favorite perch. Sprinkle in some silvervine or dried catnip.

One Reddit thread had dozens of cat parents saying: “She only chews hers now. My ferns are finally safe.” Easy win.

Use Positive Reinforcement (Ditch the Spray Bottle)

Spray bottles can damage trust. Instead, reward the behavior you want. In my experience, the water bottle doesn’t teach cats anything except “my human’s unpredictable.” Instead, toss a treat or praise when they sniff and walk away. Reddit cat owners shared: “We clicker-trained him to leave the snake plant alone. It worked better than I expected.” 

🧠 Emotional Insight: It Might Be About You, Not the Plant

“When I gave my cat more attention before watering the plants, the ‘war’ stopped. Sometimes they just want your focus.” – r/indoorgarden

How I Taught My Cat to Ignore My Snake Plant

Many cat parents on Reddit have had success in traing their feline buddies to ignore the once-tasty houseplant. One person shared that they started by moving the snake plant to a less-accessible spot, adding a pot of cat grass nearby, and rewarding their cat every time she chose her own plant.

Here’s a timeline on what you can expect if you’re consistent with training.

• Day 1: Snake plant got chewed.
• Day 2: Snake plant moved. Cat grass added.
• Day 7: She sniffed the grass and forgot the snake.
• Week 2: No more interest in the plant—just naps on the shelf.

Now? She walks right past it. No stress. Just habit—and a bit of strategy.

Did you know? Snake plants have many benefits, so it’s worth training your cat to avoid them to enjoy these stunning Sanseveria varieties in your home.

🌿 Pet Parent Wisdom: Grow Something They Can Eat

“Once I added a cat grass pot near the window, they left everything else alone. Sometimes redirection really works.” – Cat lover and plant parent

What Plants Do Cats Hate? (Use These to Deter Them)

The good news is that you don’t need to battle your cat every day. Cats respond to consistency, rewards, and smart environmental design. Punishment (like spray bottles) rarely works and often backfires.

Cats can learn—not by yelling, but by making better options irresistible. Reddit’s full of folks who ditched the spray bottle and got results using grass, treats, and layout tricks. The goal? Outwit your cat, not outfight them.

Let’s get into what actually works. 

Lavender, Rosemary, Rue—Nature’s Repellents

Chewing’s a thing—and you won’t train it out. So give them something better.

Grow a pot of cat grass near their favorite perch. Sprinkle in some silvervine or dried catnip. One Reddit thread had dozens of cat parents saying: “She only chews hers now. My ferns are finally safe.” 

Where to Place “Guard Plants” in Your Jungle

Stop spraying—start rewarding.

The water bottle doesn’t teach cats anything except “my human’s unpredictable.” Instead, toss a treat or praise when they sniff and walk away. Reddit cat owners shared: “We clicker-trained him to leave the snake plant alone. It worked better than I expected.” 

Warning: Some Strong-Smelling Plants Are Toxic

It took a few weeks, but it worked. I started by moving the snake plant to a less-accessible spot, adding a pot of cat grass nearby, and rewarding my cat every time she chose hers.

Now? She walks right past it. No stress. Just habit—and a bit of strategy.

The timeline for training went something like this.

• Day 1: Snake plant got chewed.
• Day 2: Snake plant moved. Cat grass added.
• Day 7: She sniffed the grass and forgot the snake.
• Week 2: No more interest in the plant—just naps on the shelf. 

How to Keep Cats Away from Indoor Plants in Small Spaces

It’s common knowledge that cats and plants don’t mix easily in small apartments. There’s less space to separate zones, fewer high spots, and everything’s within paw reach. That means more conflict, more digging, and more stress.

I’ve read through many plant forum posts and Reddit threads and discovered that smart vertical planning and cat-aware layouts can even make a studio feel like a safe plant haven. 

Here’s a summary of what I found.

Vertical Layouts and Room Zoning

• Use wall-mounted planters or floating shelves above furniture-free zones.
• Stack plant stands by windows—but keep them outside jump range.
• Create layers: low furniture, mid-level decor, then high-hanging greenery.
  Reddit users said this reduced “accidental swats” and made plants feel out of reach without sacrificing light.

Creating Cat-Free Corners in Studio Setups

• Dedicate one corner as a “plant zone”—and make it slightly awkward to reach.
• Use scent deterrents or soft visual dividers like sheer curtains or folding screens.
• Position cat favorites (beds, towers) across the room to redirect interest.
  Studio dwellers on forums reported that mild friction = fewer cat missions.

Apartment-Friendly Barriers That Look Chic

• Try acrylic table risers, mesh cloches, or wire domes as subtle shields.
• Use tall books or stacked baskets to block access on open shelving.
• Choose cabinets with glass doors for humidity-loving plants.
  Forum tip: “I started styling with closed storage, and my plants are finally thriving.” 

🧵 Home Hack: Plastic Forks as Plant Armor

“Stuck upside-down forks around the pot rim. Looks ridiculous, but my cat backed off fast. Paws don’t like it.” – Reddit user

Try a Cat Garden Instead (Yes, It Works!)

Tired of saying “no” to your cat? Say “yes”—but on your terms.

I didn’t plan on growing plants for my cat. Honestly, my focus was just keeping her out of mine. But then I saw a thread on Reddit about “cat sensory gardens,” and it clicked. Give them something to chew, dig, and sprawl in—on their terms. Bonus: your Pink Princess Philodendron plant survives, and it actually looks adorable.

The cat garden redirects curiosity, satisfies natural instincts, and yeah, looks pretty cute too. It’s enrichment, not chaos. 

What to Grow (Cat Grass, Valerian, Lemongrass)

• Cat Grass (wheat, oat, barley): Safe to nibble, easy to grow indoors.
• Valerian: Entices play and helps mellow anxious cats.
• Lemongrass: A natural repellent for some cats, but loved by others.
  Reddit cat parents often said: “Once he had his own plant, he left mine alone.”

How to Set Up a “Yes Space” for Curious Cats

• Pick a sunny windowsill or shelf that’s already cat-claimed.
• Group 2–3 safe plants in heavy pots or a shallow box.
• Add textures—grass, twigs, moss, or cork for digging.
  One user called it “a cat sensory garden”—and yes, it totally worked.

Turn It Into a Cute Decor Element

• Use matching planters or a tiered stand to style it.
• Add a wooden tray, macramé base, or natural baskets.
• Elevate it with labels or tiny garden signs for charm.
  Reddit tip: “Made it look intentional, and guests love it—plus my Monstera’s safe again.”

FAQs About Keeping Cats Away From Houseplants

What should I do if my cat eats a toxic plant?

If your cat chews or swallows part of a toxic plant, contact your vet immediately. You can also call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435. Try to identify the plant and take a photo for your vet. Even mild symptoms like drooling or vomiting can indicate poisoning.

Why does my cat only attack one specific plant?

Some cats fixate on one plant due to texture, scent, or how it moves when touched. Reddit users often say, “He’s obsessed with the spider plant but ignores everything else.” Move the plant out of reach, use scent deterrents near it, or provide a chew-safe alternative like cat grass nearby.

Can I keep my favorite plant if it’s also my cat’s obsession?

Yes—but relocate it to a protected spot. Try placing it in a curio cabinet, on a floating shelf, or behind a decorative screen. You can also pair it with faux plants in risky zones to maintain your décor. Some pet parents use visual clutter or scent cues to block access.

My cat chews leaves but doesn’t swallow them—is that still dangerous?

Even chewing without eating can cause problems—some plants release sap or toxins through broken leaves. If the plant is mildly toxic, it could still irritate your cat’s mouth or stomach. When in doubt, swap it for a non-toxic plant or use deterrents to redirect the behavior.

Are citrus-scented cleaning products safe for cats?

Not always. Some citrus-scented products contain essential oils like limonene or linalool, which are toxic to cats. Check the label. Even the lingering scent on paws or fur can be irritating. If you love citrus for cleaning, use it in non-pet areas and rinse surfaces well after use.

My cat eats the deterrent plants—what now?

Some cats actually love the plants that are supposed to repel them—like rosemary or lemongrass. If yours treats them like a snack bar, swap them for sensory-safe alternatives like valerian or cat grass. You can also combine visual barriers with scent-based repellents to make the space less appealing overall.

Should I use chemical sprays to keep cats off houseplants?

Most commercial sprays rely on strong scents or bitter flavors—but they’re not always cat-safe. Always check for essential oils, alcohol, or artificial additives. Many Reddit users found they either didn’t work or caused stress. A safer bet? Try a DIY deterrent spray with diluted vinegar or lavender oil.