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Pet Safety and Calathea Prayer Plant:
A Guide for Pet Owners

Updated: March 21, 2023

As a pet owner, it’s important to ensure that the plants in your home are safe for your furry friends. Many popular houseplants can be toxic to pets if ingested, and it’s important to know which ones are safe and which should be avoided.

One plant that is safe for pets and also makes a beautiful addition to your home is the Calathea Prayer Plant. In this article, we’ll discuss the benefits of having a Calathea Prayer Plant in your home, how to care for it, and why it’s a great choice for pet owners.

What is a Calathea Prayer Plant?

The Calathea Prayer Plant is a tropical plant native to South America. It gets its name from the way its leaves fold up at night, resembling hands folded in prayer. The plant has striking foliage with variegated patterns of greens, pinks, and purples.

This plant is known for being low maintenance and easy to care for, making it a popular choice for both experienced and novice plant owners.

Benefits of Having a Calathea Prayer Plant

Aside from being safe for pets, there are many benefits to having a Calathea Prayer Plant in your home. Here are just a few:

  • Air purification: Like many other plants, the Calathea Prayer Plant helps to purify the air in your home by removing harmful toxins.

  • Stress relief: Studies have shown that having plants in your home can help reduce stress levels and promote relaxation.

  • Aesthetics: With its unique foliage, the Calathea Prayer Plant adds a touch of beauty to any room.

How to Care for Your Calathea Prayer Plant

Caring for a Calathea Prayer Plant is relatively easy, but there are a few things you should keep in mind:

  • Lighting: This plant prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight as this can burn the leaves.

  • Watering: The Calathea Prayer Plant likes to be kept moist but not waterlogged. Water it once a week or when the top inch of soil feels dry.

  • Humidity: This plant thrives in high humidity. Mist it regularly or place it near a humidifier.

  • Soil: Use well-draining soil that retains moisture but doesn’t become waterlogged.

Why the Calathea Prayer Plant is Safe for Pets

The Calathea Prayer Plant is non-toxic to cats and dogs, making it a great choice for pet owners. This means that if your furry friend decides to nibble on a leaf or two, they won’t experience any harmful effects.

However, while this plant is safe for pets, it’s still important to keep an eye on them and discourage them from eating any plants. Some pets may have allergies or sensitivities that could cause them to have an adverse reaction even to non-toxic plants like the Calathea Prayer Plant.

FAQ

Q: Can my cat or dog eat the Calathea Prayer Plant?

A: While the Calathea Prayer Plant is non-toxic to pets, it’s still best to discourage them from eating any plants.

Q: Do I need to fertilize my Calathea Prayer Plant?

A: Yes, you should fertilize your plant once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer.

Q: What should I do if my plant’s leaves start turning brown?

A: Brown leaves can be a sign of overwatering or underwatering. Check the soil moisture level and adjust your watering schedule accordingly.

Q: Can I propagate my Calathea Prayer Plant?

A: Yes! You can propagate your plant by dividing it during repotting or by taking stem cuttings.

In conclusion, the Calathea Prayer Plant is an excellent choice for pet owners looking for a safe and low-maintenance houseplant. With its unique foliage and air-purifying properties, this plant is sure to add beauty and serenity to any room in your home.