Is Dryopteris carthusiana toxic to cats?

Mildly. The ASPCA lists dryopteris carthusiana as mildly toxic to cats — a chewing cat typically gets mouth irritation, drooling, and vomiting rather than a medical emergency, but it is still best kept out of reach. Dryopteris (wood/buckler fern) is not individually listed in the ASPCA Toxic/Non-Toxic Plant database. Dryopteris rhizomes contain filicic acid and related compounds historically toxic to livestock and people, so it should not be assumed pet-safe. Treat as uncertain to mildly toxic, keep pets from ingesting it, and verify with a vet.

Dryopteris (wood/buckler fern) is not individually listed in the ASPCA Toxic/Non-Toxic Plant database. Dryopteris rhizomes contain filicic acid and related compounds historically toxic to livestock and people, so it should not be assumed pet-safe. Treat as uncertain to mildly toxic, keep pets from ingesting it, and verify with a vet. Signs usually appear soon after chewing rather than hours later — watch for drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite, or unusual lethargy after your cat has had access to dryopteris carthusiana.

Stay calm. Remove any plant from your cat's mouth and take the plant away. Note how much was eaten and when, and do not induce vomiting unless told to. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 and follow their advice; a leaf or photo helps the vet treat it correctly.

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Dryopteris carthusiana is mildly toxic to dogs as well. See the full dryopteris carthusiana pet-safety guide for both species.

For a similar look without the risk, see the best cats-safe plants list — every plant there is ASPCA non-toxic to cats and dogs.