Nerve Plant — Stan Shebs
Photo by Stan ShebsWikimedia CommonsCC BY-SA 3.0
Pet safety reference

Nerve Plant

Fittonia albivenis

Nerve Plant is a popular, low-growing tropical houseplant known for its striking, vein-patterned foliage. It is considered non-toxic to pets, though ingestion of large amounts of plant material may cause mild digestive discomfort.

Fittonia albivenisFittonia verschaffeltiiMosaic PlantPainted Net Leaf
Light
Low to medium indirect light
Habit
Trailing or creeping
Care
Moderate

Safety status

Cats & Dogs

Generally safe

Consulted references do not classify the plant as toxic for that pet type, while still allowing for mild GI upset if large amounts are chewed.

Verified against ASPCA/provenance audit 2026-05-06 on May 6, 2026.

If a pet has chewed or swallowed plant material and is showing symptoms, contact a veterinarian or poison resource immediately. This product is for structured reference, not diagnosis.

Catsconcern notes

Common signs

None expected; however, consumption of large quantities may lead to mild vomiting or diarrhea due to the fibrous nature of the leaves.

Escalation note

This plant is considered non-toxic. If your cat consumes a significant amount and shows signs of distress, contact your veterinarian for guidance.

Dogsconcern notes

Common signs

None expected; however, consumption of large quantities may lead to mild vomiting or diarrhea due to the fibrous nature of the leaves.

Escalation note

This plant is considered non-toxic. If your dog consumes a significant amount and shows signs of distress, contact your veterinarian for guidance.

Bring it home

Nerve Plantis generally pet-safe in ordinary household exposure. If you’d like one for your space, here’s a starting point.

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Source evidence

ASPCA Toxic Plant List

toxicology · 99% reliability

Open source

Nerve Plant is listed as non-toxic to both cats and dogs.

NC State Extension Plant Toolbox

botanical · 94% reliability

Open source

Fittonia albivenis is a low-growing evergreen perennial native to the tropical rainforests of South America.

cats safety pagedogs safety page

Same safety verdict

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