We get asked a lot about whether or not air plants are toxic to pets. The simple answer is no, air plants are not toxic to pets. Tillandsias as a whole are not poisonous to animals or humans, so you can rest assured that your furry friends will be safe around them.
Visit the ASPCA
If you’re still not convinced, the ASPCA put together a comprehensive list of poisonous plants to animals.
If you are concerned for your furry friends, we recommend checking the list for any other plants you might have in your home just to be safe.
What if Pets Eat Air Plants?
While cats shouldn’t be interested in plants as they are carnivorous, some dogs might take a nibble out of your air plants.
If this is the case, simply move the plant out of reach or keep an eye on your dog around Tillandsias. There are several ways to mount air plants so that they are out of reach of curious pets.
You could also try growing your air plants in a terrarium or closed glass globe. This will protect them from pets and help increase the humidity around the plant.
If you’re really worried, you can always contact your veterinarian for more information.
What About Other Domesticated Animals?
Not everyone reading this may not own a dog or cat, but perhaps have other animals such as bearded dragons, bunnies, birds, snakes, geckos, frogs, or even rodents as pets.
Even for other animals, tillandsias are not considered to be poisonous.
In fact, some folks will use air plants to decorate the cages of their smaller pets. However, it’s important to note that if you put Tillandsias in a cage with other animals, you’ll need to take extra care to ensure that the plant gets enough light and water.
Of course, these animals may step on or knock over your air plants, so you’ll want to be sure to secure them well.
As a bonus, air plants can help purify the air in your home, among many other benefits, so they’re safe for your pets and good for them too!
Samantha Taylor is the Senior Editor of airplantcentral.com. Her love for plants goes back to her childhood when she spent hours in the garden with her dear grandfather. As an aspiring botanist, she started her own business specializing in air plants.