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Pet safety

Is Chinese Chestnut toxic to cats?

Castanea mollissima

Non-toxic to cats

No — chinese chestnut is listed by the ASPCA as non-toxic to cats. It is a sensible choice for a home with a cat; a curious nibble will not poison them, though no plant is meant to be eaten. This classification follows the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant List. Castanea mollissima is not listed as toxic by the ASPCA and yields edible nuts; treat as non-toxic to cats and dogs. It must not be confused with the toxic horse chestnut (Aesculus). As with any starchy nut, large quantities can cause digestive upset or a choking/obstruction risk, and the spiny burs can injure mouths and paws.

Is chinese chestnut toxic to cats? — FAQ

Is chinese chestnut toxic to cats?

No — chinese chestnut is listed by the ASPCA as non-toxic to cats. It is a sensible choice for a home with a cat; a curious nibble will not poison them, though no plant is meant to be eaten. Castanea mollissima is not listed as toxic by the ASPCA and yields edible nuts; treat as non-toxic to cats and dogs. It must not be confused with the toxic horse chestnut (Aesculus). As with any starchy nut, large quantities can cause digestive upset or a choking/obstruction risk, and the spiny burs can injure mouths and paws.

Is chinese chestnut safe for cats?

Yes — the ASPCA lists chinese chestnut as non-toxic to cats and dogs. A cat that chews a large amount of any foliage can still get a mild, brief stomach upset, so discourage grazing, but it will not be poisoned.

Is chinese chestnut toxic to dogs too?

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Chinese Chestnut is non-toxic to dogs as well. See the full chinese chestnut pet-safety guide for both species.

What other plants are safe for cats?

Reliable ASPCA non-toxic picks for a cat home include spider plant, calathea, parlor palm, peperomia, and most true ferns. Browse the best cats-safe plants list to check more before you buy.

Full chinese chestnut pet-safety