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Rotherham, South Yorkshire
Rotherham, South Yorkshire
Enjoy the sunshine without worrying about your furry friends
As summer blooms into full swing, many of us are spending more time outdoors, enjoying our gardens, patios, and green spaces. If you have pets, you’ve probably seen them soaking up the sun or investigating every corner of the garden. But while it might seem like paradise, some common garden plants can pose serious health risks to our furry companions.
To help you create a garden that’s both beautiful and safe, we’ve pulled together a handy list of pet-friendly plants – one for cats, and one for dogs. Whether you’re planting anew or just checking what’s already growing, here’s how to make your garden a safe haven this summer.
Cats are naturally curious and often like to nibble on plants. Unfortunately, many popular plants and flowers can be toxic to felines. The good news? There are plenty of safe and beautiful alternatives!
Here are some cat-friendly plants to consider for your garden:
🌿 Catnip – A favourite with many cats, and completely safe.
🌼 Marigolds – Bright, cheerful, and non-toxic.
🌸 Snapdragons – Safe and great for adding colour.
🌺 Spider Plants – Hardy and harmless to cats.
🌱 Valerian – Cats love the scent, and it can even have a calming effect.
🌿 Bamboo – Non-toxic and a great ornamental plant.
🌸 Roses – Petals are safe (avoid any chemical sprays).
🌱 Basil, thyme, and parsley – These herbs are safe in moderation.
🌼 Calendula (pot marigold) – Pretty and pet-friendly.
🌸 Asters – Another colourful, safe option.
🚫 Avoid for cats: Lilies (all types), foxgloves, azaleas, daffodils, tulips, and sago palm – these are highly toxic and can be fatal if ingested.
Dogs are usually less inclined to eat plants than cats, but they’re still known to chew on leaves or dig around garden beds. Just like with cats, it’s important to know what’s safe.
Dog-friendly plants include:
🌼 Sunflowers – Big, bold, and safe for pups.
🌿 Rosemary – A robust herb that’s non-toxic and smells great.
🌸 Snapdragons – Lovely and safe for both cats and dogs.
🌱 Basil and thyme – Perfect for herb gardens.
🌸 Camellias – Safe and striking in colour.
🌿 Fennel – A tasty herb that’s dog-safe.
🌸 Zinnias – Bright annuals that add a splash of colour without the risk.
🌺 Spider Plants – Again, a good option for both species.
🌿 Bamboo – Non-toxic and safe for pups to explore.
🚫 Avoid for dogs: Oleander, azaleas, foxgloves, sago palm, rhubarb, and autumn crocus – all of these can be dangerous to dogs if ingested.
Creating a pet-safe garden doesn’t mean sacrificing beauty or variety. With just a little planning, you can build a vibrant space where both humans and animals can relax and enjoy the sunshine.
And if you’re ever unsure about a specific plant, check the ASPCA’s Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants List or speak to your vet for advice.
Happy gardening! 🌸
When you buy a gift for a Rain Rescue animal, it will help us to provide the care the cats and dogs in our centre need.
Treat them to a cosy place to sleep, a treat and a toy, or nutritious food to keep them strong. It’s a great way to donate, thank you.
Founded in 2002, our charity has saved the lives of thousands of the cats and dogs most at risk in and around Yorkshire. Our rescue centre provides the space and support needed for these abandoned animals to recover, thrive and find a loving home.
