Is Crazy-leaf Begonia toxic to cats?

Yes — crazy-leaf begonia 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.) as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. The toxic principle is soluble calcium oxalates, with the highest concentration in the roots and underground parts. Ingestion causes oral irritation, drooling, and vomiting in cats and dogs; in horses and other grazing animals, kidney failure is a risk. Symptoms in pets typically resolve within a few hours but veterinary advice should be sought promptly.

The ASPCA lists Begonia (Begonia spp.) as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. The toxic principle is soluble calcium oxalates, with the highest concentration in the roots and underground parts. Ingestion causes oral irritation, drooling, and vomiting in cats and dogs; in horses and other grazing animals, kidney failure is a risk. Symptoms in pets typically resolve within a few hours but veterinary advice should be sought promptly. 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 crazy-leaf begonia.

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: Crazy-leaf Begonia is toxic to dogs as well. See the full crazy-leaf begonia 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.