asparagus-fern

Are Asparagus Ferns Poisonous To Cats?

Cats are curious creatures and have been known to nibble on house plants, including Asparagus ferns. They do this because either they like the taste, boredom, or to get nutrients they might be lacking in their diet.

If you’re introducing new house plants into your home, it’s a good idea to check first to see if they are safe for your cat.

Are Asparagus ferns poisonous to cats? Yes, this is a type of fern that is toxic and poisonous to cats. The Asparagus ferns contain steroidal saponins toxins which are in higher concentrations in the bright red berries of the plant.

What Is The Asparagus Fern?

asparagus fern berries

The Asparagus Fern is not actually a fern, but a member of the Liliaceae family. However, it is considered to be toxic to animals and humans. This is an indoor plant that is easy to grow with little help and has pretty bright red berries that grow off them.

These berries are toxic to animals and small children and should not be left somewhere that they could have access to them.

What To Do If Your Cat Ingests Asparagus Fern?

If you see or suspect your cat may have ingested berries off of an Asparagus fern, then you should contact the Pet Poison Hotline– (855) 764-7661

Alternatively, you should give your local vet a call right away and tell them that your cat has eaten the plant. They will then guide you on what you must do.

Symptoms of Asparagus Fern Ingestion

The best way to tell if your cat has ingested one of these berries is usually the symptoms that are exhibited.  This can be hypersalivation, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, and mouth irritation. If your cat rubs against the Asparagus fern it could cause some skin irritation as well.

What Is The Treatment For Asparagus Fern Poisoning?

If Asparagus Fern poisoning is suspected by your veterinarian when he or she will start by determining if your cat ate the berries or just brushed against the plant. If the cat brushed against the plant then usually on some skin irritation and blisters occur. Skin ointment will be applied and you will need to place the ointment on your cat for the next week until the wounds are healed.

Treatment for Asparagus fern ingestion is usually supportive by giving IV fluids and antiemetics to prevent dehydration. Over time the toxicity will wear off and your cat will begin to feel better and have a full recovery.

How To Prevent Your Cat From Messing With The Asparagus Fern

If you have an Asparagus fern and cats, the best way to prevent them from getting into it is to simply place it in an area where they cannot get to it. Now, this can be difficult due to cats being acrobats and climbing and hopping onto different places.

A trick you can do is try spraying the fern with apple cider vinegar mixed with water. This causes a very strong odor and distaste for your cat and they don’t want to mess with the fern.

You could also opt for safer house plants such as a Boston fern.

Summary

I hope you have learned that overall Asparagus ferns are very poisonous and toxic for cats. You should be careful about where you place these plants especially indoors as some cats enjoy chewing and eating them. If you want your cat to be 100% safe, then it would be best to completely remove the plant and think about a safer alternative.

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