Pet safety
Is Star Fern toxic to cats?
Doryopteris ludens
No — star 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. Doryopteris ludens is not listed by the ASPCA as toxic to cats or dogs. The genus belongs to the family Pteridaceae (true ferns), which are broadly non-toxic, and no harmful compounds have been identified in this species.
Is star fern toxic to cats? — FAQ
Is star fern toxic to cats?
No — star 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. Doryopteris ludens is not listed by the ASPCA as toxic to cats or dogs. The genus belongs to the family Pteridaceae (true ferns), which are broadly non-toxic, and no harmful compounds have been identified in this species.
Is star fern safe for cats?
Yes — the ASPCA lists star 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 star fern toxic to dogs too?
The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Star Fern is non-toxic to dogs as well. See the full star 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 star fern pet-safety
- Is star fern toxic to cats and dogs? — the full guide for both pets
- Is star fern toxic to dogs?
- Best cats-safe plants — the full ASPCA non-toxic list
- Complete star fern care guide