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Pet safety

Is Imbricate Sword Fern toxic to cats?

Polystichum imbricans

Non-toxic to cats

No — imbricate sword 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. Polystichum (shield ferns / sword ferns) are not listed as toxic by the ASPCA. True ferns in the Polypodiopsida class generally have no known toxic principles to cats or dogs. No harmful effects are reported for Polystichum imbricans.

Is imbricate sword fern toxic to cats? — FAQ

Is imbricate sword fern toxic to cats?

No — imbricate sword 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. Polystichum (shield ferns / sword ferns) are not listed as toxic by the ASPCA. True ferns in the Polypodiopsida class generally have no known toxic principles to cats or dogs. No harmful effects are reported for Polystichum imbricans.

Is imbricate sword fern safe for cats?

Yes — the ASPCA lists imbricate sword 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 imbricate sword fern toxic to dogs too?

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