Is Begonia 'Merry Christmas' toxic to cats?

Yes — begonia 'merry christmas' 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 (including rex begonia) as toxic to cats, dogs and horses. The toxic principle is soluble calcium oxalates, most concentrated in the underground tubers and rhizomes. Ingestion can cause intense mouth irritation, drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing; large amounts may affect the kidneys in grazing animals.

The ASPCA lists Begonia (including rex begonia) as toxic to cats, dogs and horses. The toxic principle is soluble calcium oxalates, most concentrated in the underground tubers and rhizomes. Ingestion can cause intense mouth irritation, drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing; large amounts may affect the kidneys 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 'merry christmas'.

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 'Merry Christmas' is toxic to dogs as well. See the full begonia 'merry christmas' 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.