Is Osmunda regalis 'Purpurascens' toxic to cats?

Mildly. The ASPCA lists osmunda regalis 'purpurascens' as mildly toxic to cats — a chewing cat typically gets mouth irritation, drooling, and vomiting rather than a medical emergency, but it is still best kept out of reach. Osmunda regalis is not individually listed by the ASPCA. True ferns are generally regarded as non-toxic and no significant toxic principle is documented, but because there is no explicit ASPCA listing for this species or genus, treat with caution and verify with a vet; ingestion may still cause mild gastrointestinal upset.

Osmunda regalis is not individually listed by the ASPCA. True ferns are generally regarded as non-toxic and no significant toxic principle is documented, but because there is no explicit ASPCA listing for this species or genus, treat with caution and verify with a vet; ingestion may still cause mild gastrointestinal upset. 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 osmunda regalis 'purpurascens'.

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: Osmunda regalis 'Purpurascens' is mildly toxic to dogs as well. See the full osmunda regalis 'purpurascens' 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.