Q: I want to brighten my home with some new houseplants, but they need to be safe for my cats, who explore everything. Are philodendron and spider plants harmless if cats eat them? If not, can you suggest some cat-safe houseplants?
A: Philodendrons contain calcium oxalate crystals that burn a cat’s mouth and throat, cause drooling and swallowing difficulties, and can lead to vomiting and diarrhea. So don’t add them to your indoor garden.