Is boston fern toxic to cats?
Nephrolepis exaltata
No
No. Boston fern is listed non-toxic to cats by the ASPCA. Eating a large amount of any plant can still upset a cat's stomach.
If your cat has eaten some
- No specific treatment is needed for the plant itself.
- Watch for vomiting or loose stool, which any plant material can cause in quantity.
- Call your vet if signs persist beyond a day, or if your cat seems unwell in any other way.
What each authority says
What each authority says
- ASPCA — entry for a cultivar of this species: Nephrolepis exalta bostoniensis
- Non-toxic to cats and dogs
- NC State Extension
- Entry exists and records no poison data.
DISPLAY — in-content responsive
The other animal
Looking for dogs? See is boston fern toxic to dogs. Full care details are on the boston fern species entry.
Sources
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control — Nephrolepis exalta bostoniensis Checked 2026-09-11.
- North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox — Nephrolepis exaltata (consulted; entry exists and records no poison data.) Checked 2026-09-11.
- Royal Botanic Gardens Kew, Plants of the World Online — Nephrolepis exaltata Accepted name and family. Checked 2026-09-11.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, (888) 426-4435 — emergency line, fee applies
Compiled and edited by Tony Valcarcel · 2026-09-11
Tony Valcarcel is the editor and publisher of this database, not a veterinarian.
Severity is reproduced from the authority that published it and is never
originated here. How this is sourced.
This page is a reference, not a diagnosis. In an emergency, call rather than read.