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Pet safety

Is Scaly-Stemmed Holly Fern toxic to cats?

Polystichum lepidocaulon

Non-toxic to cats

No — scaly-stemmed holly 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 not recorded as toxic by the ASPCA. True ferns lack the calcium oxalate crystals of aroids and the alkaloids of other toxic plant families. Polystichum lepidocaulon is not associated with harm to cats or dogs.

Is scaly-stemmed holly fern toxic to cats? — FAQ

Is scaly-stemmed holly fern toxic to cats?

No — scaly-stemmed holly 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 not recorded as toxic by the ASPCA. True ferns lack the calcium oxalate crystals of aroids and the alkaloids of other toxic plant families. Polystichum lepidocaulon is not associated with harm to cats or dogs.

Is scaly-stemmed holly fern safe for cats?

Yes — the ASPCA lists scaly-stemmed holly 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 scaly-stemmed holly fern toxic to dogs too?

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Scaly-Stemmed Holly Fern is non-toxic to dogs as well. See the full scaly-stemmed holly 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 scaly-stemmed holly fern pet-safety