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If your dog ate polka dot begonia — do this now

  1. Take the plant away and clear any pieces from their mouth.
  2. Do not induce vomiting unless told to by a professional.
  3. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 now.

Polka dot begonia is toxic to dogs (ASPCA).

Pet emergency

My dog ate Polka dot begonia — what to do

Step by step

  1. Take polka dot begonia away and remove any plant material from your dog's mouth so they cannot eat more.
  2. Note roughly how much was eaten and when — this helps the vet judge the risk.
  3. Do NOT induce vomiting unless a vet or poison-control specialist tells you to.
  4. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 (a consultation fee may apply) and follow their advice.
  5. Watch for drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite, or lethargy, and bring a leaf or photo to the appointment.

This is general guidance, not veterinary advice. Pets vary, and a reaction may be to soil, fertiliser, or pesticide as well as the plant. When in doubt, call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435.

My dog ate polka dot begonia — FAQ

Is polka dot begonia poisonous to dogs?

Yes — the ASPCA lists Polka dot begonia (Begonia maculata) as toxic to dogs. The ASPCA lists Begonia (Begonia spp., which includes B. maculata) as toxic to cats, dogs and horses. The toxic principle is soluble calcium oxalates; ingestion can cause vomiting and salivation in cats and dogs, and kidney failure in grazing animals. The most toxic part is underground (roots, rhizomes and tubers). Keep it out of reach of pets and children.

How serious is it if my dog ate polka dot begonia?

Polka dot begonia is toxic to dogs and reactions can be significant, so treat any ingestion as urgent. Call your vet or poison control on (888) 426-4435 straight away rather than waiting to see if symptoms develop.

What symptoms should I watch for?

Signs usually appear soon after chewing: drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite, or unusual lethargy. The ASPCA lists Begonia (Begonia spp., which includes B. maculata) as toxic to cats, dogs and horses. The toxic principle is soluble calcium oxalates; ingestion can cause vomiting and salivation in cats and dogs, and kidney failure in grazing animals. The most toxic part is underground (roots, rhizomes and tubers). Keep it out of reach of pets and children. Any worsening or persistent symptoms warrant an immediate vet visit.

Should I make my dog vomit?

No — do not induce vomiting unless a vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center specifically tells you to. The wrong action can make things worse. Call (888) 426-4435 and follow professional advice.

How do I stop this happening again?

Keep polka dot begonia well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best dogs-safe plants list.

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