Cats
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
cat safety reference
Is Club Moss safe for cats?
Selaginella kraussiana
Club Moss is a low-growing, fern-like plant often used in terrariums and as a ground cover. It is considered non-toxic to pets, though its fibrous nature may cause minor digestive upset if consumed in large quantities.
African clubmossKrauss's spikemossSelaginella kraussianaTrailing spikemoss
- Light
- Bright indirect light
- Habit
- Creeping
- Care
- High
Safety status
What this means for your cat
Cats are safe around club moss — the ASPCA lists Selaginella kraussiana (also sold as Krauss' spikemoss or trailing Irish moss) as non-toxic to cats. There is no identified toxic principle, so a curious cat that bats at or chews the spreading mat is not at risk of poisoning.
Sources: ASPCA (no first-aid guidance).
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 expected, though large ingestions of fibrous plant material may cause mild vomiting or diarrhea.
Escalation note
The plant is non-toxic; however, if your cat consumes a significant amount and shows persistent signs of distress, contact your veterinarian.
Bring it home
Club Mossis generally pet-safe in ordinary household exposure. If you’d like one for your space, here’s a starting point.
Shop on AmazonSome links earn us a small commission. They never affect our safety classifications.
Source evidence
ASPCA Toxic Plant List
toxicology · 99% reliability
Club Moss is listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs.
Kew Plants of the World Online
botanical · 95% reliability
Accepted botanical classification for Selaginella kraussiana.
Questions about Club Moss
Is Club Moss toxic to cats?
No, Club Moss (Selaginella kraussiana) is non-toxic to cats. It is considered generally safe, meaning exposure is not expected to cause poisoning or serious harm.
What happens if my cat eats Club Moss?
No toxic symptoms are expected. However, because Club Moss is a fibrous plant, eating a large amount may cause mild vomiting or diarrhea from the bulk plant material alone, not from any toxic compound.
Should I call my vet if my cat ate Club Moss?
A one-time nibble does not require an emergency call. If your cat ate a significant quantity and shows persistent vomiting, diarrhea, or signs of distress, contact your veterinarian.
Does non-toxic mean Club Moss is safe for cats to eat freely?
Non-toxic means the plant does not contain compounds known to poison cats, but that does not make it a safe snack in quantity. Large ingestions of any fibrous plant material can upset a cat's digestive system, so it is best to discourage your cat from eating it.
Same cat verdict
Related plants for cats
Baby Tears
Soleirolia soleirolii
Baby Tears is a delicate, creeping groundcover often grown in terrariums or as a houseplant for its dense, moss-like appearance. It is considered non-toxic to pets, though ingestion of large amounts of plant material may cause minor digestive upset.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
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.
Dwarf Date Palm
Phoenix acaulis
The Dwarf Date Palm is a slow-growing, stemless palm species native to the grasslands of India. It is widely appreciated for its compact, architectural foliage that mimics the appearance of larger date palms in a miniature form.
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.