Pet emergency
My dog ate Rex Begonia — what to do
Step by step
- Take rex begonia away and remove any plant material from your dog's mouth so they cannot eat more.
- Note roughly how much was eaten and when — this helps the vet judge the risk.
- Do NOT induce vomiting unless a vet or poison-control specialist tells you to.
- Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 (a consultation fee may apply) and follow their advice.
- 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 rex begonia — FAQ
Is rex begonia poisonous to dogs?
Yes — the ASPCA lists Rex Begonia (Begonia rex-cultorum) as toxic to dogs. Begonia is ASPCA-listed as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses (Rex Begonia has its own ASPCA entry). The toxic principle is soluble calcium oxalates, most concentrated in the underground rhizome. Signs include intense mouth burning and irritation, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. Keep away from pets that chew foliage, and seek veterinary advice if ingestion is suspected.
How serious is it if my dog ate rex begonia?
Rex 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. Begonia is ASPCA-listed as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses (Rex Begonia has its own ASPCA entry). The toxic principle is soluble calcium oxalates, most concentrated in the underground rhizome. Signs include intense mouth burning and irritation, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. Keep away from pets that chew foliage, and seek veterinary advice if ingestion is suspected. 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 rex begonia well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best dogs-safe plants list.
Related
- Is rex begonia toxic to dogs? — full toxicity detail
- Rex Begonia and pets — the complete ASPCA pet-safety guide