Well, who doesn’t want to add some good luck to their life?
Greenery helps to increase the level of positivity energy and gives a stress-free environment.
For a refreshing burst of energy, the fern is the best option. Nature lovers will never forget to add a fern plant to their collection.
But are these fern plants are safe for your feline pal? Are ferns toxic to cats?
Well, it’s tricky to differentiate between original fern plant and fern-like plant, some of them pose serious threats to feline life.
Don’t worry, we are here to clear all your clouds of doubts, regarding the fern toxicity level for your kitty. Let’s take a closure look at whether ferns are toxic or not, and how you can keep your kitty safe.
Are Ferns Poisonous to Cats?
The short answer is no, ferns are not toxic to your kitty, occasionally she can nibble two or more leaves. But, that doesn’t mean she can have fern leaves on a regular basis. However, there are some toxic fern plants that contain sapogenin- steroid if she ingests those toxic fern leaves, it can lead to stomach issues and mild vomiting.
So, this allows you to plant your favorite toxic-free fern plant in your house and add a greenery touch to your garden. If your kitty occasionally nibbled two or more leaves, it will not cause her any health issues.
One thing always keeps in mind is that all fern-like plants are not safe for your kitty.
As you keep on reading, you will get to know about toxic ferns-like plants, which you should avoid planting in your house for your kitty’s health safety.
Fern Plants That Are Not Safe for Your Kitty
So, now we know, ferns are safe for cats. If a cat eats a leaf or two, it won’t harm her immunity system. The problem occurs, when she eats the entire plant, it will lead to stomach issues.
However, every fern name plant is not toxic-free, so before planting any fern plant. Make sure your kitty is safe around or not.
Here is the list of toxic fern name plants, which you should not keep in your house if you are parenting a cat.
1. Asparagus Fern
Asparagus fern is one of the popular houseplants, also known as lace fern.
And people generally prefer one with berries. It is not an original fern plant, though it has fern in the name.
One of the common mistakes, pet parents do by planting, Asparagus Fern in the house. It is one of the most toxic plants for cats, especially with berries.
In any case, your kitty has ingested this plant, it can lead to gastrointestinal upset including vomiting and diarrhea. If your cat comes into contact with this plant, it can lead to skin irritation.
You should immediately seek the vet, they will guide you better and help your kitty in speedy recovery.
2. Fernlike Plants
Out of unawareness, if you have planted any toxic fern-like plant on your house, suppose winter ferns. It’s advisable to remove it. If by any chance, your kitty nibbles them it will cause her major health issue.
It’s not necessary, that plants having ferns in their name are actually original ones. Many of them are dangerous for your feline pal. For example, Winter Ferns, Asparagus Ferns, Sprengeri Fern, Fern Palm, etc.
Note:- If your feline has eaten any toxic fern-like plant, then immediately consult the vet for better medication.
3. True Ferns
Generally, True Ferns are safe to grow in your home and garden, even if you are parenting a cat. However, it doesn’t give a green signal to your cat to eat them.
True ferns are not toxic, unlike other fern plants, which we have discussed above. If your kitty nibbles them, it could upset her stomach, can cause diarrhea, mild vomiting issues.
However, you should keep an eye on your kitty and stop them from eating those ferns. It might not give trouble to them.
But, it’s better to stay safe, than feel sorry.
Precautions to Be Taken if Your Kitty Ingested a Fern
Well, in the above paragraphs, we have discussed in detail that ferns are not harmful to cats. So now we know, ferns are not toxic to your kitty.
You can relax and without any tension can plant toxic-free ferns in your house. Even if your kitty ingested fern leaves, it will not harm her.
And in case she has eaten excessively, then also it will not create any major health problems.
However, if apart from toxic-free fern leaves, by mistake she ingested plants that aren’t true ferns or asparagus fern, then it’s a matter of concern for you.
In that case, no home remedy will work, you have to immediately take her to the vet for medications.
A piece of advice, when you visit the vet don’t forget to carry the plant sample which your kitty has eaten. Under vet supervision, your kitty will recover soon, so it’s always better to reach out to the vet rather than sitting at home and trying random medicine.
House Plants That Are Safe for Your Feline
Cats are primarily carnivores, they get attracted to the leaves fluttering in the air. Felines like to nibble on plants because of the taste, and there is no harm in ingesting non-toxic plants because in return they will get some sort of nutrients and fiber from the plants.
Pet parents, who are also plant lovers, for them, it’s become a little tricky, in terms of selecting plants for their homes and gardens.
They have to think twice before planting anything in their backyard or indoor area because in case any toxic plant is planted in the house, it will be unsafe for their felines. Ingesting toxic plants might lead to health issues.
So, you are correct at your place, it’s your responsibility to look after your kitty’s health and keep her away from toxic things. To help you out in this situation, we have a solution for you.
Below is the list of a few cat-friendly plants, which might help you for future plantations and also give you an idea of which plants are safe for your feline.
- Bamboo
- Banana tree
- Money plant
- Orchids
- Mosaic plant
- Ponytail palm
- Spider plant
- Areca palm
- Boston Fern
- Button Fern
By planting these toxic-free plants in your house you can fulfill your wish and on the other hand, your kitty is also safe.
Conclusion
Confidently, we were able to clear your doubts related to are ferns toxic to cats, precautions that need to be taken if she ingested large amounts of the fern plant.
Furthermore, we have also listed types of fern-like plant that needs to be avoided, if you are parenting a cat.
As well as toxic-free plants are also listed, that are safe for your kitty.
If you are a fern plant lover, then you know, which plants you need to avoid and add to your list.
Well, it’s a wrap! Go add some greenery touch to your surrounding, with toxic-free plants.
References
- Toxic and non-toxic plant list – cats — ASPCA
- Are fern bad for cats? — The Nest
- Household plants that are dangerous for cats — Vet Street