African violet Saintpaulia ionantha
ASPCA
Why it’s safe
The verdict comes from one place: the ASPCA’s list of non-toxic plants, checked by hand against this species rather than inferred from its family. The list is about poisoning, which is not the whole of what a plant can do to a pet. A cat or dog that eats a lot of any plant can still get an upset stomach.
Keep it out of reach not because it’s dangerous, but because moist soil and leaves can tempt curious pets who might dig or knock the pot over.
Pet-safety information in the JungleBook uses ASPCA reference data where available. It is reference information, not veterinary advice.
All African violet guides
Related plants
Same genus or the same care pattern.
Frequently asked questions
Is African violet safe for cats?
Yes, African violet is listed as non-toxic to cats by the ASPCA. It is not known to cause poisoning. However, eating large amounts of any plant can cause mild stomach upset, so it’s best to discourage your cat from chewing it.
Is African violet safe for dogs?
Yes, African violet is non-toxic to dogs according to the ASPCA. It is not known to cause serious harm if nibbled. If your dog eats a large amount and seems unwell, contact your vet to be safe.
Can I keep African violet with pets at home?
African violet is considered pet-safe and is not listed as toxic by the ASPCA. You can safely keep it in a home with cats and dogs. It’s still a good idea to keep plants out of reach to protect both the plant and your pet’s digestive comfort.
ASPCA reference · Last reviewed: 2026-09-01