Updated 27/02/2024
Getting ready to welcome home a new furry friend? You’re in for a treat! As well as kitting out your cat with all the necessary gear, you’ll also need to make sure your home is safe and free from hazards. Once you’ve pocketed that loose change, tied up those curtain cords, and popped your most prized possessions out of reach of curious paws, it’s important to think about whether any of your plants (both inside and out) might pose a risk to your new feline friend. Ferns are popular because of their lush foliage and relatively low maintenance, but does that mean they’re a good idea for homes with cats? We’re here to find out, as we answer the question “Are ferns poisonous to cats?” and discuss what to do if your furry friend is exposed to a poisonous plant.
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Are ferns toxic to cats?
According to the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), the majority of ferns are non-toxic to cats when small amounts are ingested. They explain that the following “true ferns” are generally safe for cats, which is good news for pet parents who want to add a touch of greenery to their home.
- Boston Fern
- Button Fern
- Carrot Fern
- Christmas Dagger Fern
- Common Staghorn Fern
- Duffii Fern
- Dwarf Whitman Fern
- Fern Holly
- Fishtail Fern
- Giant Holly Fern
- Hare Fern
- Moss Fern
- Mother Fern
- Parsley Fern
- Rabbit’s Foot Fern
While these are typically “cat-safe ferns”, that doesn’t mean it’s a good idea for the plants to become your kitty cat’s personal salad bar (a nibble here and there shouldn’t hurt though).
However, it’s not quite that straightforward. Many plants share a resemblance to ferns or have “fern” in the name even though they come from a completely different plant family, and this is where the confusion arises. For example, the Asparagus Fern (otherwise known as Emerald Ferns, Sprengeri Ferns, or Lace Ferns) is often mistaken for a true fern. Despite its name and fern-like appearance, it comes from the asparagus plant family and is highly toxic to cats.
What are the signs of plant poisoning?
Depending on the amount your furry friend ingests, furry friends might experience the following:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Stomach pains
- Salivation/drooling
- Difficulty swallowing
- Weakness
- Swelling of certain areas such as the face
- Fits or seizures
- Increased thirst
- Increased urination
- Lethargy
- Sneezing or difficulty breathing
- Poor appetite
- Collapse
If your fur baby rubs up against the plant, their skin may react in the following ways:
- Skin irritation
- Blisters
- Swelling
- Inflammation
What to do if you suspect plant poisoning?
If your fluffy feline has just had a nibble of the plant, in many cases, they will be fine. However, if you suspect they’ve munched on a few too many leaves or they’re showing signs of plant poisoning, it’s time to speak to your vet. It will be useful if you can tell them the exact plant that was ingested, and they’ll likely ask you to come in for an assessment. Depending on the severity of the situation, the vet will wash away any leftover plant residue on the skin or in the mouth, and they may also administer an IV drip to prevent dehydration from vomiting or diarrhea. They can also prescribe topical creams to clear up any skin irritation. Symptoms should clear up within 48 hours, but the sooner your kitty cat gets treatment, the better.
Remember that members of TrustedHousesitters can call our 24/7 vet advice line at any time during a sit, meaning that if a cat sitter suspects plant poisoning, they can speak to a knowledgeable professional immediately.
So are ferns bad for cats? No matter what kind of plants you have in your home, the bottom line is that your feline friend shouldn’t be eating them. Whether they’re toxic or not, keep plants out of reach of curious mitts to avoid the temptation - ferns work well in hanging pots or trailing down from high shelves. If you want to find out more about pet-friendly plant options, explore our guide to plants that are safe to have in homes shared with pet pals.
Meet our veterinary expert, Emma
This article has been checked by veterinarian Emma Chandley, BVetMed MRCVS PGCertSAS. Emma graduated from the Royal Vet College in London in 2011. She has a keen interest in surgery and went on to do a postgraduate certificate in small animal surgery and was then awarded advanced practitioner status in the same discipline.
Are ferns poisonous to cats? - FAQs
As cats are obligate carnivores, they should not be eating ferns whether they’re poisonous or not. While a nibble of a leaf here and there shouldn’t hurt, eating too much could still cause uncomfortable digestive issues.
Yes, Asparagus Ferns are poisonous to cats and can cause upset stomachs and skin irritation.
According to the ASPCA, Frosty Ferns are not toxic to cats. However, that doesn’t mean your furry feline can go ahead and devour the whole plant, as excess consumption may cause health problems.
A round of a-paws is in order for the Boston Fern, the ASPCA has confirmed that this is another pet-friendly house plant.
