Boston Fern

Also known as Sword Fern. One plant, one grade per pet — the verdicts below are transcribed from primary sources and human-reviewed.

FOR CATSS0 · SAFE

Boston fern is non-toxic to cats (S0 Safe): the ASPCA lists Nephrolepis exaltata as safe for cats and dogs — a true fern with no toxin on record, unlike the asparagus 'fern' that mimics it.

FULL VERDICT →

FOR DOGSS0 · SAFE

Boston fern is non-toxic to dogs (S0 Safe): the ASPCA lists Nephrolepis exaltata as safe for dogs and cats — a true fern with no toxin on record. The asparagus 'fern' sold beside it is a different plant.

FULL VERDICT →

Care at a glance

Lightmedium

Waterevery 3–7 days

Humidityhigh

Difficulty●○○

When to call the vet

FOR CATS

See a vet only if unusual or persistent symptoms follow ingestion.

FULL VERDICT →

FOR DOGS

See a vet if unusual or persistent symptoms follow ingestion.

FULL VERDICT →

FAQ

Is a Boston fern safe for cats and dogs?

Yes, for both. The ASPCA lists Nephrolepis exaltata bostoniensis as "Non-Toxic to Dogs, Non-Toxic to Cats," with no toxic principle and no clinical signs on record — that is the whole entry, and it is why the grade is S0 Safe. The one thing to check is that your fern really is a Boston fern: the feathery asparagus fern sold beside it is not a fern and is S2 Irritant for cats, with berries that cause vomiting and repeated skin contact that causes dermatitis. A Boston fern has flat, sword-shaped fronds and never carries berries. If yours does, read the other page.