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Is Begonia odorata toxic to cats?

Begonia odorata

Toxic to cats

Yes — begonia odorata 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 classifies Begonia as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses owing to soluble calcium oxalates, most concentrated in the underground tubers. Chewing causes intense oral irritation, hypersalivation, and vomiting. The fragrance does not make it pet-safe; keep out of reach and consult a vet if ingested.

What to do if your cat ate begonia odorata

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

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

Is begonia odorata toxic to cats? — FAQ

Is begonia odorata toxic to cats?

Yes — begonia odorata is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. The ASPCA classifies Begonia as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses owing to soluble calcium oxalates, most concentrated in the underground tubers. Chewing causes intense oral irritation, hypersalivation, and vomiting. The fragrance does not make it pet-safe; keep out of reach and consult a vet if ingested.

What are the symptoms if a cat eats begonia odorata?

The ASPCA classifies Begonia as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses owing to soluble calcium oxalates, most concentrated in the underground tubers. Chewing causes intense oral irritation, hypersalivation, and vomiting. The fragrance does not make it pet-safe; keep out of reach and consult a vet if ingested. 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 odorata.

What should I do if my cat ate begonia odorata?

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 odorata toxic to dogs too?

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

What is a cat-safe alternative to begonia odorata?

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 odorata pet-safety