Is Hen and Chickens Fern Toxic to Cats?

As a cat owner, you might be concerned about the plants in your home and how they affect your pet. One plant that you may have heard conflicting information about is Hen and Chickens fern. This fern, also known as Squirrel's Foot fern or Cat's Foot fern, is a popular houseplant known for its delicate, lacy appearance. But can you safely keep this plant in your home if you have a furry friend?

The Basics of Hen and Chickens Fern

Hen and Chickens fern (Asplenium bulbiferum) is a native of New Zealand and Australia. It is a perennial fern that can be found growing in the wild in moist areas such as rainforests, riverbanks, and cliffs. The plant gets its common name from the shape of its fronds, which resemble a mother hen and her chicks. Each frond of the plant can grow up to 100 centimeters long and has numerous tiny leaflets attached to it.

In its natural habitat, Hen and Chickens fern can grow as an epiphyte, which means it can grow on the surface of other plants without drawing nutrients from them. In your home, you can keep the plant in a pot with well-draining soil and place it in a bright, humid spot such as a bathroom or kitchen. The plant requires regular watering, but it should not be overwatered as too much water can cause the roots to rot.

Cats and Poisonous Plants

Cats are curious by nature, and they like to explore their surroundings by sniffing and nibbling on things. This behavior can be dangerous if the things they're exploring are poisonous to them. Some common plants that can be toxic to cats include lilies, azaleas, rhododendrons, and chrysanthemums. Eating these plants can cause a range of symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and in severe cases, organ failure.

It's important to note that not all cats are the same, and some may be more sensitive to certain plants than others. The amount of the plant ingested, the age and health of the cat, and the part of the plant consumed can all affect the severity of the cat's reaction. If you suspect that your cat has ingested a poisonous plant, you should seek veterinary care immediately.

Hen and Chickens Fern and Cats

So, what about Hen and Chickens fern? Is it safe for cats?

The answer is somewhat complicated. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), Hen and Chickens fern is listed as non-toxic to cats. This means that if a cat ingests some of the plant, it is unlikely to cause any serious harm. However, it's important to note that some sources suggest that the plant can cause indigestion and other mild gastrointestinal symptoms in cats.

Additionally, while the plant itself may not be poisonous to cats, there are some potential hazards associated with it. For example, the plant can be a choking hazard if a cat tries to swallow a large piece of frond. Also, some fertilizers and pesticides used on the plant may be toxic to cats, so it's important to keep these substances away from your pet.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Hen and Chickens fern is listed as non-toxic to cats by the ASPCA, it's important to be mindful of potential hazards associated with the plant. If you have a curious cat that likes to nibble, you may want to keep the plant out of reach or consider an alternative pet-friendly plant. And as always, if you suspect that your cat has ingested a poisonous plant, seek veterinary care immediately.

Sources:

• ASPCA. (n.d.). Asplenium bulbiferum. Retrieved from https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants/hen-and-chickens-fern
• Cat World. (2019, July 31). Foods and Plants Toxic to Cats. Retrieved from https://cat-world.com/toxic-plants-c.html
• New Zealand Plant Conservation Network. (n.d.). Asplenium bulbiferum. Retrieved from https://www.nzpcn.org.nz/flora/species/asplenium-bulbiferum/