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.
Pet safety reference
Silver Table Fern
Pteris sp.
The Silver Table Fern is a popular, low-maintenance indoor fern known for its delicate, variegated fronds. It is considered non-toxic to pets, though ingestion of large amounts of plant material may cause minor digestive upset.
Brake FernPteris FernPteris sp.Pteris sp.
- Light
- Indirect bright light
- Habit
- Clumping
- 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, consumption of large amounts of fibrous foliage may lead to mild vomiting or diarrhea.
Escalation note
Generally considered safe. If your cat consumes a significant portion of the plant and shows signs of distress, contact your veterinarian.
Dogs — concern notes
Common signs
None typically expected; however, consumption of large amounts of fibrous foliage may lead to mild vomiting or diarrhea.
Escalation note
Generally considered safe. If your dog consumes a significant portion of the plant and shows signs of distress, contact your veterinarian.
Bring it home
Silver Table 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 and Non-Toxic Plants List
toxicology · 99% reliability
The Silver Table Fern is listed as non-toxic to both cats and dogs.
NC State Extension: Pteris sp.
botanical · 94% reliability
Pteris is a genus of ferns in the Pteridaceae family, commonly grown as houseplants for their attractive foliage.
Questions about Silver Table Fern
Is Silver Table Fern toxic to cats?
No, Silver Table Fern (Pteris sp.) is considered non-toxic to cats. It is classified as generally safe, meaning it is not expected to cause poisoning if your cat chews or nibbles on the fronds.
What happens if my cat eats Silver Table Fern?
Eating small amounts is unlikely to cause any symptoms. If your cat consumes a large quantity of the fibrous foliage, mild vomiting or diarrhea is possible due to the bulk plant material, not any toxic compound.
How much Silver Table Fern would cause a problem for my cat?
Occasional nibbling poses minimal risk. Problems are only expected if your cat eats a significant portion of the plant at once, and even then the likely outcome is temporary, mild GI upset rather than serious illness.
What should I do if my cat ate a lot of Silver Table Fern?
Monitor your cat for vomiting, diarrhea, or signs of distress. Because this fern is non-toxic, symptoms should be mild and short-lived; however, if your cat seems uncomfortable or symptoms persist, contact your veterinarian.
Is Silver Table Fern toxic to dogs?
Silver Table Fern (Pteris sp.) is considered non-toxic to dogs. According to an ASPCA provenance audit, it is classified as generally safe, meaning no toxic effects are typically expected from contact or ingestion.
What happens if my dog eats Silver Table Fern?
Consuming small amounts is unlikely to cause any symptoms. If your dog eats a large quantity of the fibrous foliage, mild vomiting or diarrhea may occur due to the plant material irritating the digestive tract — not because of any toxic compounds.
How much Silver Table Fern would I need to worry about my dog eating?
Small nibbles are not a concern. Problems, if any, are associated with consuming a significant portion of the plant, in which case mild GI upset is the most likely outcome. Non-toxic does not mean harmless in large quantities — keep portions small and monitor your dog.
My dog ate a big chunk of Silver Table Fern — what should I do?
Watch for signs of digestive upset such as vomiting or diarrhea. Because this plant is classified as generally safe, serious toxicity is not expected, but if your dog shows signs of distress or ate an unusually large amount, contact your veterinarian to be safe.
Same safety verdict
Other plants with the same verdict
Calathea
Calathea spp.
Calathea are popular tropical houseplants known for their striking, patterned foliage and rhythmic leaf movement. They are considered safe for households with pets, though ingestion of large amounts of fibrous plant material may cause minor digestive discomfort.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Bichetii Grass
Chlorophytum bichetti
Bichetii Grass is a popular, low-maintenance houseplant known for its arching, variegated foliage that resembles a miniature spider plant. It is widely considered safe for households with pets, though large ingestions of fibrous plant material may cause minor digestive discomfort.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Cast Iron Plant
Aspidistra elatior
The Cast Iron Plant is a hardy, shade-tolerant houseplant known for its deep green, leathery foliage and ability to thrive in low-light conditions. It is widely considered a pet-safe choice for households with cats and dogs.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Gloxinia
Sinningia speciosa
Gloxinia is a popular flowering houseplant known for its large, velvety leaves and vibrant, bell-shaped blooms. It is considered non-toxic to pets, though ingestion of plant material can occasionally cause minor digestive irritation.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.