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Is Begonia albopicta toxic to cats?

Begonia albopicta

Toxic to cats

Yes — begonia albopicta is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. This classification follows the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant List. The ASPCA lists Begonia as toxic to cats and dogs. The toxic principle is soluble calcium oxalates, most concentrated in the underground tubers; ingestion can cause oral burning, vomiting and difficulty swallowing. Keep out of reach of pets.

What to do if your cat ate begonia albopicta

  1. Remove any plant material from your cat's mouth and move begonia albopicta 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 begonia albopicta to the appointment so it can be treated correctly.

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

Is begonia albopicta toxic to cats? — FAQ

Is begonia albopicta toxic to cats?

Yes — begonia albopicta is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. The ASPCA lists Begonia as toxic to cats and dogs. The toxic principle is soluble calcium oxalates, most concentrated in the underground tubers; ingestion can cause oral burning, vomiting and difficulty swallowing. Keep out of reach of pets.

What are the symptoms if a cat eats begonia albopicta?

The ASPCA lists Begonia as toxic to cats and dogs. The toxic principle is soluble calcium oxalates, most concentrated in the underground tubers; ingestion can cause oral burning, vomiting and difficulty swallowing. Keep out of reach of pets. 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 cat has had access to begonia albopicta.

What should I do if my cat ate begonia albopicta?

Stay calm. Remove any plant from your cat'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 begonia albopicta toxic to dogs too?

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Begonia albopicta is toxic to dogs as well. See the full begonia albopicta pet-safety guide for both species.

What is a cat-safe alternative to begonia albopicta?

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

Full begonia albopicta pet-safety