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Is Lace fern toxic to cats and dogs?

Toxic to cats and dogs. Lace fern contains sapogenins.

Lace fern — Asparagus setaceus
This guide is aboutLace fern Asparagus setaceusToxic to petsLace fern care guide →
Toxic to cats and dogsCatsDogs

Lace fern Asparagus setaceus

Sapogenins · ASPCA

What to do if your pet ate it

If you think your cat or dog ate any part of Lace fern, act quickly. Do not wait for symptoms to appear.

  1. Remove the plant from the pet’s reach.
  2. Call your vet or an emergency animal clinic immediately.
  3. Have the plant’s name or a photo, roughly how much, and when it happened ready when you call.

Do not induce vomiting unless a vet specifically instructs you to. It can make some poisonings worse.

Symptoms

In cats and dogs, contact or ingestion can cause:

  • Oral irritation and burning sensation
  • Excessive drooling
  • Vomiting
  • Difficulty swallowing

Non-toxic plants for the same spot and light

Non-toxic plants that suit the same spot:

Boston fernNephrolepis exaltataMedium / indirect lightPet-safeKentia palmHowea forsterianaMedium / indirect lightPet-safeMoney treePachira aquaticaMedium / indirect lightPet-safeRattlesnake plantCalathea lancifoliaMedium / indirect lightPet-safe

Pet-safety information in the JungleBook uses ASPCA reference data where available. It is reference information, not veterinary advice.

All Lace fern guides

Related plants

Same genus or the same care pattern.

String of hearts: Pet toxicityCeropegia woodiiPet safety unknownBoston fernNephrolepis exaltataSame light and wateringPet-safeArrowhead plantSyngonium podophyllumToxic to petsChinese evergreenAglaonema commutatumToxic to pets

Frequently asked questions

Is Lace fern toxic to cats?

Yes, Lace fern, which contains sapogenins, is toxic to cats. If your cat chews or ingests any part of the plant, contact your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center right away. Symptoms can include drooling, vomiting, and oral irritation.

Is Lace fern toxic to dogs?

Yes, Lace fern is toxic to dogs. Contact your vet immediately if your dog eats any part of it. Do not wait for symptoms.

What should I do if my cat ate Lace fern?

Call your vet or an emergency animal clinic immediately. You can also contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (24/7). Try to bring a piece of the plant or a photo so the vet can identify the species. Do not try to induce vomiting unless instructed by a professional.

Can I keep Lace fern with pets?

Lace fern is toxic to cats and dogs, so it is best kept out of reach: ideally in a room your pets cannot access, or replaced with a non-toxic alternative. See the pet-safe alternatives listed on this page.

ASPCA reference · Last reviewed: 2026-09-01