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Is Bracken Fern toxic to dogs and cats?

Pteridium aquilinum · Dennstaedtiaceae

Yes — Bracken Fern is toxic to pets (moderate). Rabbits and grazing animals with long-term access

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Is Bracken Fern toxic to cats?Is Bracken Fern toxic to dogs?
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Why it is toxic

Thiaminase, which destroys vitamin B1, plus the carcinogen ptaquiloside

How fast symptoms appear: Chronic — days to weeks of repeated eating

Symptoms of poisoning
  • Weight loss
  • Wobbliness
  • Gut slowdown
  • Weakness
  • Anaemia with long exposure
What to do first
  1. Fence bracken out of any rabbit or grazing run.
  2. Book a vet visit if a rabbit is losing weight or looks unsteady.
(888) 426-4435ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (855) 764-7661Pet Poison Helpline
What your vet will do
Thiamine (vitamin B1) supplementation and supportive care.

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Sources: Merck Veterinary Manual, Toxicology. PetPlantGuard is complementary to veterinary care and never replaces your vet.