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Is Begonia grandis toxic to cats?

Begonia grandis

Toxic to cats

Yes — begonia grandis 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. ASPCA-listed as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. The genus Begonia contains soluble calcium oxalates, with the underground tubers being the most toxic part; ingestion causes oral irritation, salivation, vomiting, and kidney failure in grazing animals.

What to do if your cat ate begonia grandis

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

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

Is begonia grandis toxic to cats? — FAQ

Is begonia grandis toxic to cats?

Yes — begonia grandis is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. ASPCA-listed as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. The genus Begonia contains soluble calcium oxalates, with the underground tubers being the most toxic part; ingestion causes oral irritation, salivation, vomiting, and kidney failure in grazing animals.

What are the symptoms if a cat eats begonia grandis?

ASPCA-listed as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. The genus Begonia contains soluble calcium oxalates, with the underground tubers being the most toxic part; ingestion causes oral irritation, salivation, vomiting, and kidney failure in grazing animals. 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 grandis.

What should I do if my cat ate begonia grandis?

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 grandis toxic to dogs too?

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

What is a cat-safe alternative to begonia grandis?

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 grandis pet-safety