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Pet safety

Is Hard Fern toxic to cats?

Blechnum spicant

Non-toxic to cats

No — hard fern 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. Blechnum spicant (deer fern) is a true fern and is not listed as toxic to cats or dogs by the ASPCA. True ferns are generally regarded as non-toxic to pets, though chewing large quantities could cause mild stomach upset.

Is hard fern toxic to cats? — FAQ

Is hard fern toxic to cats?

No — hard fern 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. Blechnum spicant (deer fern) is a true fern and is not listed as toxic to cats or dogs by the ASPCA. True ferns are generally regarded as non-toxic to pets, though chewing large quantities could cause mild stomach upset.

Is hard fern safe for cats?

Yes — the ASPCA lists hard fern 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 hard fern toxic to dogs too?

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Hard Fern is non-toxic to dogs as well. See the full hard fern 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 hard fern pet-safety