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Pet safety

Is Table Fern toxic to cats?

Pteris vittata

Non-toxic to cats

No — table 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. ASPCA lists the table fern (Pteris sp., "Silver Table Fern") as non-toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. As with any plant, nibbling can cause mild stomach upset. Note the nickname "arsenic fern" refers to its ability to take up arsenic from contaminated soil, not to any inherent poison; avoid eating fronds grown in unknown ground.

Is table fern toxic to cats? — FAQ

Is table fern toxic to cats?

No — table 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. ASPCA lists the table fern (Pteris sp., "Silver Table Fern") as non-toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. As with any plant, nibbling can cause mild stomach upset. Note the nickname "arsenic fern" refers to its ability to take up arsenic from contaminated soil, not to any inherent poison; avoid eating fronds grown in unknown ground.

Is table fern safe for cats?

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

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