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Is Polystichum aculeatum toxic to dogs?

Polystichum aculeatum

Mildly toxic to dogs

Mildly. The ASPCA lists polystichum aculeatum as mildly toxic to dogs — a chewing dog typically gets mouth irritation, drooling, and vomiting rather than a medical emergency, but it is still best kept out of reach. This classification follows the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant List. Polystichum aculeatum is not individually listed on the ASPCA Toxic/Non-Toxic Plants database. The closely related Polystichum munitum (Western sword/giant holly fern) IS ASPCA-listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs, and true ferns are generally regarded as non-toxic; however, because this exact species is not individually listed, treat with caution and verify with a vet. As with any plant, ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset.

What to do if your dog ate polystichum aculeatum

  1. Remove any plant material from your dog's mouth and move polystichum aculeatum out of reach.
  2. Note how much was eaten and when, and watch for drooling, vomiting, or lethargy.
  3. Do not induce vomiting unless a vet or poison-control specialist instructs you to.
  4. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 and follow their advice.
  5. Bring a leaf or photo of polystichum aculeatum to the appointment so it can be treated correctly.

General guidance, not veterinary advice. If you think your dog has eaten polystichum aculeatum, contact your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 — do not wait for symptoms to worsen.

Is polystichum aculeatum toxic to dogs? — FAQ

Is polystichum aculeatum toxic to dogs?

Mildly. The ASPCA lists polystichum aculeatum as mildly toxic to dogs — a chewing dog typically gets mouth irritation, drooling, and vomiting rather than a medical emergency, but it is still best kept out of reach. Polystichum aculeatum is not individually listed on the ASPCA Toxic/Non-Toxic Plants database. The closely related Polystichum munitum (Western sword/giant holly fern) IS ASPCA-listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs, and true ferns are generally regarded as non-toxic; however, because this exact species is not individually listed, treat with caution and verify with a vet. As with any plant, ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset.

What are the symptoms if a dog eats polystichum aculeatum?

Polystichum aculeatum is not individually listed on the ASPCA Toxic/Non-Toxic Plants database. The closely related Polystichum munitum (Western sword/giant holly fern) IS ASPCA-listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs, and true ferns are generally regarded as non-toxic; however, because this exact species is not individually listed, treat with caution and verify with a vet. As with any plant, ingestion may 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 dog has had access to polystichum aculeatum.

What should I do if my dog ate polystichum aculeatum?

Stay calm. Remove any plant from your dog'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.

Is polystichum aculeatum toxic to cats too?

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Polystichum aculeatum is mildly toxic to cats as well. See the full polystichum aculeatum pet-safety guide for both species.

What is a dog-safe alternative to polystichum aculeatum?

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

Full polystichum aculeatum pet-safety