7 Essential Tips to Keep Pets & Plants Safe
Pets & Plants
Is your feline or canine friend eating leaves or toppling planters? Here’s what you can do…
Winter is a time for us to enjoy the great indoors. For plant lovers, this means more time to admire our indoor greenery. For pet-parents, winter gives us extra couch time with our canine and feline family members alike. But what if our 4-legged companions take an interest in our plants? They may try to chew on a palm frond, or paw at a pothos. That’s when it’s time to take action. As a horticulturist–and a pet owner–I’ve learned how to get my fur-buddies to live in harmony with my leafy friends. Here are 7 tips to keep your pets and plants healthy all season long:
Tip #1: Divide and Conquer - A beautiful way to display humidity loving plants is in a glass terrarium or cloche, which also safeguards them from inquisitive pets. Another option is to have a room designated for plants that can be closed off from pets when you are leaving for an extended time.
Tip #2: Keep Pets Occupied - A bored animal may amuse himself with anything available, including your plants. Keep pets active daily, in mind and body. When outdoor play is not feasible, puzzle-type toys for dogs engage their brain and stave off boredom. Cats enjoy the ‘hunt’ of a laser pointer, which encourages their natural instincts while getting mental and physical exercise. Strive to play with your pet at least twice a day, for 10 minutes or more.
Tip #3: Put Plants Up - Keeping plants higher and out of reach will prevent pets from interacting with them. Hanging planters may work, but some cats find this to be a welcome challenge. Instead, consider adding Living Walls, which get plants off the floor and furniture, making them unattainable for curious pets.
Tip #4: Remove Any Debris - Regularly check your plant for any dropped leaves or debris, which can fall to a pet’s level. Better yet, keep your plant healthy so it won’t lose leaves. If you don’t have a green thumb, consider hiring a professional interiorscape company to ensure plants stay healthy.
Tip #5: Use Sturdy Planters - Make sure tall planters, plant stands, and tabletop pots can’t tip over. Cats that climb or dogs that jump can be injured if they knock down top-heavy plants. Interiorscape companies have access to stylish, high-quality containers that are made to be sturdy, which can keep your pets safe from mishaps.
Tip #6: Teach Your Pets - Use training techniques your animal is already familiar with, to deter them from interacting with plants. A single-word command or a spritz from a water bottle are safe ways to let them know you disapprove. Be consistent, and reinforce good behavior with lots of love while they’re learning to resist your houseplants.
Tip #7: Know Your Plants - There are many plants available that add beauty, purify the air, and are non-toxic to animals. When buying a plant, insure your cat or dog is safe by visiting the ASPCA non-toxic plant list . Sometimes it’s as simple as finding a plant your pet will have no interest in because of the leaf size or texture. Talk to your veterinarian if you have any concerns.
Be proactive and use these tips to enjoy the great indoors this winter. Your pets and plants will thank you!
by Terri Bonstrom
