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Pet safety

Is Japanese Shield Fern toxic to cats?

Polystichum retroso-paleaceum

Non-toxic to cats

No — japanese shield 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 species are considered non-toxic to cats and dogs; related species including P. munitum are listed as non-toxic on the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant database, and no harmful compounds have been identified in this genus.

Is japanese shield fern toxic to cats? — FAQ

Is japanese shield fern toxic to cats?

No — japanese shield 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 species are considered non-toxic to cats and dogs; related species including P. munitum are listed as non-toxic on the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant database, and no harmful compounds have been identified in this genus.

Is japanese shield fern safe for cats?

Yes — the ASPCA lists japanese shield 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 japanese shield fern toxic to dogs too?

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