Is Begonia imperialis toxic to cats?

Yes — begonia imperialis 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 (Begonia spp.), which includes Begonia imperialis, as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. The toxic principle is soluble calcium oxalates, concentrated underground in the rhizome and roots. Ingestion typically causes vomiting and salivation in cats and dogs, and kidney failure in grazing animals. Keep it out of reach of pets.

The ASPCA lists Begonia (Begonia spp.), which includes Begonia imperialis, as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. The toxic principle is soluble calcium oxalates, concentrated underground in the rhizome and roots. Ingestion typically causes vomiting and salivation in cats and dogs, and kidney failure in grazing animals. Keep it 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 imperialis.

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.

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

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.