While houseplants are a fantastic way to bring a touch of greenery into your home, some of them can be harmful to your pets. Cats are more likely to chew on random plants. So, if you have any houseplants that are toxic for cats, it can spell trouble for your pet. It’s better to know which herbs, flowers, and plants are harmful to pets before you get started in your indoor garden.

To make it easier for you, here are the most common houseplants that are toxic to cats.

1. Lilies
Lilies are a beautiful flower and are frequently used as indoor decorations. But, unfortunately, all species of this plant, including the common lily of the valley, peace lily, and Asiatic lily, are toxic for cats. In fact, these are some of the most dangerous houseplants that are toxic to cats. They lead to immediate kidney failure in felines.

2. Dumb Cane
The Dumb Cane or Dieffenbachia is a regular fixture in indoor gardens, thanks to its tropical looks and low-maintenance nature. But it is among the houseplants that are toxic for cats. If ingested, it can lead to a swelling, burning sensation in the mouth, and difficulty swallowing and vomiting. The sap can even irritate humans who have sensitive skin.

3. Onions
While having a home garden full of ingredients like onions seems like a feasible idea, these houseplants are toxic to cats and dogs, alike. They can lead to kidney issues and breakdown the structure of red blood cells in pets. Apart from onions, chives, scallions, garlic, and leeks are among some other herbs from your pantry that are harmful to cats.

4. Mistletoe
Mistletoe can be seen in most homes during Christmas. But these are among the houseplants that are toxic for cats. They can cause your feline’s cardiovascular system to shut down. If you’ve got Mistletoe decorations, hang them above your cat’s reach.

5. Snake plants
Snake plant or Sansevieria trifasciata is one of the most popular indoor plants, as it can live in low-light conditions and purify the air. However, it can be toxic to both cats and dogs. It contains compounds called saponins that cause symptoms like nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting upon ingestion.

6. Aloe vera
Aloe vera is now a staple in many homes, thanks to its medicinal properties. But this succulent is among the houseplants that are toxic for cats. It has saponins and anthraquinones that are harmful to your pets. If eaten, aloe vera can lead to lethargy and stomach issues, like diarrhea and vomiting.

7. Azaleas
Another flowering plant that is harmful to cats is the Azalea. These flowers are used frequently in decorations. However, when ingested by cats, it can lead to severe health issues. Some effects include cardiovascular problems, digestive issues like vomiting and diarrhea, and nervous system issues like seizures.

8. English Ivy
Ivy plants are frequently used to add a touch of greenery to garden walls and window sills. But they are among the common houseplants that are toxic for cats. The English Ivy contains compounds called triterpenoid saponins, which lead to symptoms like weakness, dermatitis, and swelling of the throat. Cats are especially prone to ingest these plants as the draping, dangling nature can attract curious felines.

If you cannot do without some of these plants or if they’re already present in your home, keep them out of your cat’s reach. There are many other houseplants that are toxic for cats.