Is Crisped Feather Fern Toxic to Cats?

Introduction

If you have a cat, you know how much they like to explore their environment. Cats are curious by nature, and often end up sticking their noses into things they probably shouldn't. As a responsible pet owner, it's important to know what is safe for your furry friend and what isn't. One plant that many cat owners might be curious about is the crisped feather fern. While this plant can be a beautiful addition to your home decor, the question remains: is it toxic to cats?

What is Crisped Feather Fern?

Before we dive into whether or not crisped feather fern is toxic to cats, let's take a closer look at what this plant actually is. Crisped feather fern, also known as Asplenium Crispy Wave, is a type of fern that is native to Japan. It has become increasingly popular in homes and offices due to its unique, ruffled fronds and low maintenance requirements. While it is a relatively easy plant to care for, it's important to note that it does have some growing requirements that must be met in order for the plant to thrive.

Is Crisped Feather Fern Toxic to Cats?

Now, let's get to the heart of the matter: is crisped feather fern toxic to cats? Unfortunately, the answer is yes. Like many other types of ferns, crisped feather fern contains toxic compounds that can be harmful to cats (and even humans) if ingested. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), crisped feather fern is classified as being toxic to cats due to the presence of saponins and insoluble calcium oxalates in the plant's tissues. These compounds can cause a variety of symptoms in cats, including vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, and oral irritation. In severe cases, ingestion of crisped feather fern can even lead to difficulty breathing and kidney failure.

What Should You Do If Your Cat Eats Crisped Feather Fern?

If you suspect that your cat has ingested crisped feather fern, it's important to act quickly. The first thing you should do is remove your cat from the area where the plant is located so they can't eat any more of it. Then, you should contact your veterinarian right away to seek advice on next steps. Depending on the severity of your cat's symptoms, your vet may recommend inducing vomiting or administering activated charcoal to help absorb any remaining toxins in your cat's system.

Other Plants That Are Toxic to Cats

While crisped feather fern is one plant that cat owners should avoid, it's important to note that there are many other common plants that are toxic to cats as well. Here are just a few:

• Lilies
• Pothos
• Dieffenbachia
• Philodendron
• Snake plant

If you have any of these plants in your home, it's important to keep them out of reach of your cats or consider removing them altogether.

Conclusion

While crisped feather fern may be a beautiful addition to your home decor, it's important to avoid this plant if you have a cat. The toxic compounds found in the plant's tissues can cause a variety of symptoms in cats, and even lead to serious health complications in some cases. As a responsible pet owner, it's important to familiarize yourself with plants that can be harmful to your furry friend and take steps to keep them safe. If you suspect that your cat has ingested any toxic substance, contact your veterinarian right away for advice on next steps.