Is Foxtail Fern toxic to cats?

Yes — foxtail fern is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. The ASPCA lists Asparagus densiflorus (asparagus fern) as toxic to both cats and dogs; the 'Myersii' foxtail fern is the same species. Despite the name it is not a true fern. It contains steroidal saponins concentrated in its red berries, and berry ingestion can cause vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhoea, while repeated skin contact with the sap can cause allergic dermatitis.

The ASPCA lists Asparagus densiflorus (asparagus fern) as toxic to both cats and dogs; the 'Myersii' foxtail fern is the same species. Despite the name it is not a true fern. It contains steroidal saponins concentrated in its red berries, and berry ingestion can cause vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhoea, while repeated skin contact with the sap can cause allergic dermatitis. Signs usually appear soon after chewing rather than hours later — watch for drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite, or unusual lethargy after your cat has had access to foxtail fern.

Stay calm. Remove any plant from your cat's mouth and take the plant away. Note how much was eaten and when, and do not induce vomiting unless told to. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 and follow their advice; a leaf or photo helps the vet treat it correctly.

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Foxtail Fern is toxic to dogs as well. See the full foxtail fern pet-safety guide for both species.

For a similar look without the risk, see the best cats-safe plants list — every plant there is ASPCA non-toxic to cats and dogs.