Cats & Dogs
Generally safeConsulted 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.
Sources
Pet safety reference
Boston Fern
Nephrolepis exaltata
The Boston Fern is a popular, lush houseplant known for its arching fronds and preference for high humidity. It is considered non-toxic to pets, though its fibrous nature may cause minor digestive upset if consumed in large quantities.
Boston Blue Bell FernNephrolepis exalta bostoniensisNephrolepis exaltataSword Fern
- Light
- Bright indirect light
- Habit
- Clumping/Trailing
- Care
- Moderate
Safety status
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.
Cats — concern notes
Common signs
None typically expected; however, ingestion of large amounts of fibrous plant material may cause mild vomiting or diarrhea.
Escalation note
Generally considered safe. If your cat consumes a significant amount of foliage and shows persistent gastrointestinal distress, contact your veterinarian.
Dogs — concern notes
Common signs
None typically expected; however, ingestion of large amounts of fibrous plant material may cause mild vomiting or diarrhea.
Escalation note
Generally considered safe. If your dog consumes a significant amount of foliage and shows persistent gastrointestinal distress, contact your veterinarian.
Bring it home
Boston Fernis 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
Non-toxic to dogs and cats.
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
Nephrolepis exaltata is a species of fern in the family Nephrolepidaceae, native to tropical regions of the world.
Same genus
More from the Nephrolepis genus
Boston Fern
Nephrolepis exaltata bostoniensis
The Boston Fern is a popular, lush houseplant known for its arching fronds and preference for high humidity. It is widely considered safe for pets, though ingestion of any plant material can occasionally cause minor digestive upset.
Uncertain for cats.
Generally safe for dogs.
Giant Sword Fern
Nephrolepis biserrata
The Bold Sword Fern is a popular, large-growing tropical fern known for its long, arching fronds and lush appearance. It is generally considered a safe choice for households with pets, though ingestion of any plant material can occasionally cause minor digestive discomfort.
Uncertain for cats.
Generally safe for dogs.
Same safety verdict
Other plants with the same verdict
Cosmos
Cosmos bipinnatus
Garden cosmos is a daisy-like annual usually treated as a pet-safe flowering option, though any large plant ingestion can still cause mild stomach upset.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
African Violet
Saintpaulia spp.
African Violets are popular, low-growing flowering houseplants known for their fuzzy leaves and vibrant blooms. They are considered non-toxic to both cats and dogs.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Spider Plant
Chlorophytum comosum
The spider plant is a popular, easy-to-care-for houseplant known for its arching, grass-like foliage and trailing plantlets. It is widely considered safe for households with pets, though large ingestions of fibrous material may occasionally cause mild digestive upset.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Acorn Squash
Cucurbita pepo
Acorn squash is a popular edible winter squash known for its ribbed, dark green skin and sweet, yellow-orange flesh. It is widely cultivated for culinary use and is considered safe for household pets.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.