Is Begonia 'Santa Cruz Sunset' toxic to cats?

Yes — begonia 'santa cruz sunset' 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, dogs, and horses. The toxic principle is soluble calcium oxalates, most concentrated in the underground tuber; ingestion causes oral irritation, salivation, and vomiting, with kidney failure possible in grazing animals. Keep tubers and plants away from pets.

The ASPCA lists Begonia as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. The toxic principle is soluble calcium oxalates, most concentrated in the underground tuber; ingestion causes oral irritation, salivation, and vomiting, with kidney failure possible in grazing animals. Keep tubers and plants away from 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 'santa cruz sunset'.

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 'Santa Cruz Sunset' is toxic to dogs as well. See the full begonia 'santa cruz sunset' 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.