There would be no plants in my house without my friend Shenandoah’s suggestion: just tell me which plants are safe for cats and I won’t have to worry about this behavior. Most plants can weather some nibbling.
So I did some research at the aspca. we found a few common houseplants that are safe and four common ones that are not in the org database. For the most part, I think cats know to stay away from poisonous plants, but that’s not always the case. (Case in point: Our cats pulled down the Pothos recently, so we had to get rid of it. ).
Some people find that spraying Grannick’s Bitter Apple Spray on a houseplant for a few weeks keeps their cat away and makes them decide to leave the plant alone after that.
Ferns are a popular choice for houseplants known for their lush graceful fronds and ability to purify indoor air. However, when you have a curious cat at home, it’s crucial to choose only feline-friendly varieties. While most true ferns are non-toxic for cats, exceptions like the asparagus fern can cause stomach upset, vomiting, and diarrhea if ingested.
To keep your cat safe and healthy, read on to learn which ferns are harmless for felines and how to cultivate these pet-safe plants in your home.
Overview: Are Ferns Toxic to Cats?
The key to determining a fern’s safety is proper identification. According to the ASPCA, the following plants are considered “true ferns” and are generally harmless to cats:
- Boston fern
- Sword fern
- Button fern
- Mother fern
- Carrot fern
- Maidenhair fern
- Staghorn fern
- Rabbit’s foot fern
Plants like asparagus fern, lace fern, and sweetfern are not true ferns but can contain irritants and toxins that may cause vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy in cats if eaten Always verify a fern’s species before bringing it home
7 Popular Ferns Safe for Cats
Here are seven of the most popular true ferns that are non-toxic and safe for feline households
1. Boston Fern
With long, graceful fronds, the Boston fern is one of the most common houseplants. Its delicate texture and cascading habit make it perfect for hanging baskets. Boston ferns enjoy medium to bright indirect light.
2. Kimberly Queen Fern
Sometimes called Australian sword fern, this variety has vibrant, deep green fronds. It thrives in bright, humid conditions. Mist the Kimberly Queen regularly to simulate the tropical climate it prefers.
3. Rabbit’s Foot Fern
Distinctive fuzzy rhizomes give this fern its name. Its arching fronds stay compact, making it ideal for terrariums and tabletops. Keep soil moist but not soggy for your Rabbit’s foot fern.
4. Button Fern
Button fern features tiny round fronds that resemble buttons. Slow but steady growth makes this a beginner-friendly houseplant. Give it the warm, humid conditions of a terrarium or bathroom.
5. Autumn Fern
Hardy and easy to grow, Autumn fern handles low light and irregular watering quite well. Its foliage takes on a bronze tint in fall. Place this variety in a spot with some direct sun to bring out the best color.
6. Holly Fern
Stiff, leathery fronds make Holly fern stand out from its delicate cousins. Plant it in a shady spot indoors or part sun outside. Regular misting will keep its foliage looking fresh.
7. Maidenhair Fern
Finely cut fronds make this fern seem to float in the air. Although tricky to grow, its graceful beauty is worth the effort. Site in bright, indirect light and keep the soil evenly moist.
Tips for Growing Safe Ferns with Cats
Follow these tips to successfully grow cat-safe ferns without endangering your curious feline:
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Place ferns out of reach of cats – on high shelves or plant stands, or hang them from ceiling hooks. This prevents chewing.
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Choose a fern suited to your home’s humidity and light levels. Matching its needs prevents stress and poor health.
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Water ferns when the top inch of soil dries out and mist often to increase humidity. Proper moisture prevents cats from chewing leaves.
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Avoid overcrowding. Give ferns room for air circulation and growth. Crowding stresses plants, making them vulnerable.
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Check for pests like spider mites that can harm ferns and cats. Treat any infestations promptly and keep cats away until it’s resolved.
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Remove dead or dying fronds promptly, before cats can chew on them. Monitor ferns daily if your cat is highly interested.
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Consider using citrus scents or aproduct like Sentry Stop That! to deter cats from nibbling plants. Always check that deterrents are non-toxic for cats before using them.
Signs of Fern Poisoning in Cats
If you suspect your cat has ingested part of a toxic fern variety, watch for these symptoms:
- Excessive salivation or drooling
- Difficulty swallowing
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Decreased appetite
- Lethargy
- Hiding or abnormal behavior
Take your cat to the vet immediately if any of these signs appear. Bring a sample of the plant for identification. Your vet can induce vomiting if ingestion just occurred or provide supportive care as needed.
With caution and proper care, ferns can safely enhance your home while coexisting with curious cats. Stick to non-toxic varieties and cultivate them in ways that prevent feline interest. By making ferns unattractive to cats and keeping tempting plants out of reach, you can create a safe, plant-filled environment for both you and your furry companions.
Fish pole bamboo (Phyllostachys aurea) is safe *
This is that tall bamboo you see used as screens indoors and out, as shown here. Fish pole or Golden bamboo… spreads fast! Put it in a container
Most types of ferns are safe
Boston Fern, Sword Fern, Button Fern, Cliff break fern, Mother Fern, Carrot Fern and most other ferns. Boston Fern Button fern.
With ferns, according to the aspca database, you need only avoid: The very toxic Cycads (not really a fern, but also known as “Fern Palm” and Sago Palm) and the mildly toxic Asparagus Fern (aka Asparagus, Emerald Feather, Emerald Fern, Sprengeri Fern, Plumosa Fern, Lace Fern, Racemose Asparagus, Shatavari, Asparagus densiflorus cv sprengeri).
17 Common Houseplants That Are NON-TOXIC To Cats
FAQ
Are any ferns safe for cats?
Is Green Lady fern safe for cats?
Why does my cat want to eat my fern?
Are ferns poisonous to cats?
The challenge, however, is determining which plants are “true ferns” and which ones just look like ferns, as there are a few that can be poisonous to felines. Let’s learn more about fern toxicity for cats and the plants to watch out for. Are Ferns Hazardous to Cats? Most true ferns are safe for cats, even if they ingest them.
Can cats eat ferns?
Some ferns (especially fake ones (plants similar to ferns but not true) can be toxic to curious cats. Here, based on the ASPCA ® (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®), provided 13 ferns which are perfectly safe for cats. So, these indoor plants pose no health risks if your feline friend decides to nibble on a frond or two.
Can cats eat eagle ferns?
One of the most popular fern plants we can find in homes and gardens is known as common bracken or the eagle fern (Pteridium aquilinum). This plant is toxic to cats. While it won’t cause harm when it comea in contact with a cat’s skin, it is toxic when ingested. This is thanks to a compound known as ptakilosid.
Are maidenhair ferns poisonous to cats?
Description: Maidenhair Ferns are delicate plants with lacy, fan-shaped fronds. They are often used in terrariums and are admired for their graceful appearance. Toxicity: Maidenhair Ferns are non-toxic to cats. They are safe to have around pets and can be a beautiful addition to any home.
Can cats eat Boston ferns?
While these plants aren’t considered toxic to cats, ingesting high amounts of any plant can cause unpleasant reactions in felines. If your cat eats too much of a Boston fern, for instance, she’ll probably experience an upset stomach. In most cases, however, symptoms from ingesting a true fern aren’t severe enough to warrant medical attention.
Are birds nest ferns poisonous to cats?
Birds nest ferns are known for their unique, nest-like shape and are often used in decorative planters. While they’re not as toxic as some other fern species, they can still cause gastrointestinal upset in cats. The toxic compounds in birds nest ferns are unknown, but they can cause mild vomiting, diarrhea, and lack of appetite in cats.