Caturday: Houseplants I Am Feeding My Cats

It's Caturday, and I've expanded The Hellions' little window garden. I acquired their first plant back in October during the Enriched Life Challenge, and since then I've learned how to keep my cats and houseplants co-existing peacefully...mostly.

Plants vs. Cats

• Choose only non-toxic cat-safe species
• Hang plants so they can only nibble the tips
• Use very heavy pots that can't be tipped, avoid plastic

I don't have a large enough space for a full-on kitty salad bar like Chirpy Cats, but I've found a way to fit a few green snacks into my small space. 

In the past, the Hellions have tackled plants to the floor, wrestled them in submission, and messily devoured them. Decorative plant stands are definitely a no-go around here, the only way plants are going to stay put is if they're anchored securely. Very heavy pots are definitely the way to go.

My cats also have zero sense of portion control, and will happily eat an entire houseplant in short order. Hanging the plants securely from walls and windowsills not only keeps them in place, it also limits access. The plants last a lot longer when the cats can only nibble the tips!

Maindenhair fern looking nibbled.

The Tastiest Plants

• Maidenhair fern
• Boston fern
• Spider plant
• Basil
• Catnip
• Wheatgrass
•  African violet
• Air plants

So far, the Geek Garden only includes the first three species. However, I'm getting more creative with finding places and ways to hang them, so I hope to expand the list soon. I'm particularly fond of African violets and air plants, but basil will probably give the kitties nice breath!