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Is Creeping Begonia toxic to cats?

Begonia repens

Toxic to cats

Yes — creeping begonia 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 lists Begonia species (Begonia spp., family Begoniaceae) as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. Soluble calcium oxalates in the plant tissue — concentrated most highly in underground parts — cause oral irritation, salivation, and vomiting on ingestion. Keep away from pets and children.

What to do if your cat ate creeping begonia

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

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

Is creeping begonia toxic to cats? — FAQ

Is creeping begonia toxic to cats?

Yes — creeping 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 species (Begonia spp., family Begoniaceae) as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. Soluble calcium oxalates in the plant tissue — concentrated most highly in underground parts — cause oral irritation, salivation, and vomiting on ingestion. Keep away from pets and children.

What are the symptoms if a cat eats creeping begonia?

The ASPCA lists Begonia species (Begonia spp., family Begoniaceae) as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. Soluble calcium oxalates in the plant tissue — concentrated most highly in underground parts — cause oral irritation, salivation, and vomiting on ingestion. Keep away from pets and children. 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 creeping begonia.

What should I do if my cat ate creeping 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.

Is creeping begonia toxic to dogs too?

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

What is a cat-safe alternative to creeping begonia?

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 creeping begonia pet-safety