Cats, Dogs, and Watermelon Peperomia: A Guide to Pet Safety
The watermelon peperomia’s striped green leaves and small form make it a welcome addition to many homes, including mine. But before you bring this plant home, it’s a good idea to learn whether or not it’s pet-friendly. I’m going to answer if watermelon peperomia plants are toxic to pets.
Are Watermelon Peperomia Plants Toxic to Cats and Dogs?
According to the ASPCA, watermelon peperomia plants are non-toxic to cats and dogs. That means animals won’t experience adverse health effects if they ingest the plants.
However, you should still discourage your pets from nibbling on the leaves or chomping on the plants. This will help keep your plant looking good and ensure your pets won’t become ill.
I have a dog at home, and although she typically doesn’t bother houseplants, I can keep the watermelon peperomia in her reach without worry. And when my friends ask me for options for cat-friendly houseplants, I often recommend the watermelon peperomia.
Are Other Types of Peperomia Plants Toxic to Pets?
While the watermelon peperomia is one of the most popular plants in the Peperomia genus, it’s not the only one. Other types of plants in the genus include the baby rubber plant (Peperomia obtusifolia), ripple peperomia (Peperomia caperata), and round-leaf peperomia (Peperomia rotundifolia).
Fortunately, all of these peperomia plants are non-toxic to pets! That means they’re a great addition to your home if you have dogs, cats, and other pets. And remember that you don’t have to choose just one!
Since peperomia plants come in various sizes, colors, and shapes, you can find one for just about every area. You can find trailing peperomia to hang in front of your window, small plants for your bedside table, and cute peperomia plants for your desk.
Other Types of Pet-Friendly Houseplants
While all types of peperomia are pet-friendly, they’re not the only option. If you’ve gotten your fill of peperomia plants or are just looking for something different, check out the following houseplants that are non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Spider plants are non-toxic to dogs and cats and easy to care for. I think they look great planted in hanging baskets.
Prayer plants in the Calathea genus are safe for both dogs and cats. You can find various colors of prayer plants, but you should note they all like high humidity.
If you’re looking for a larger plant, the areca palm is also non-toxic to dogs and cats. Also known as the cane palm, this clumping plant can grow up to eight feet tall indoors.
The nerve plant is another small plant that’s safe for pets. You can set this tiny plant on tables and desks without worrying about your pets getting into it. Just don’t be shocked when the plants dramatically wilt when they’re dry.
What Should I Do If My Pet Eats a Watermelon Peperomia Plant?
Since watermelon peperomia plants are non-toxic to both dogs and cats, you don’t have to worry if your pet eats part of your plant. However, it’s always a good idea to carefully monitor your pet if you notice they’ve eaten something abnormal. If they begin acting abnormally, contact your veterinarian.
If your cat or dog ate part of your watermelon peperomia, they may have also munched on other houseplants. Check to see if it looks like your other plants have been eaten. If they appear eaten, check to see if they are non-toxic.
If you suspect your pet has eaten a toxic plant, closely monitor your pet and contact your veterinarian. Your vet can provide further advice and let you know if you need to bring your pet in for monitoring and/or treatment.
Keeping Watermelon Peperomia Plants at Home
The watermelon peperomia (Peperomia argyreia) is a low-growing plant with teardrop-shaped, succulent-like leaves. The leaves are dark green with light green steaks, resembling a watermelon plant’s rind. These leaves occur on top of thin, red petioles.
Watermelon peperomia plants are native to forests in South America, so they like indirect, bright light and warm temperatures. They can tolerate average household humidity and prefer well-draining soil.
Since they remain under a foot tall, they’re great houseplants for small areas. My watermelon peperomia plant is tucked onto a windowsill, and it fits perfectly.
Wrapping Up
Not only are watermelon peperomia attractive houseplants, but they’re also non-toxic to dogs and cats. These houseplants won’t harm pets, so they’re a great option if you have dogs or cats at home.
For more, see our in-depth guide to Watermelon Peperomia care at home.