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Is Forked Begonia toxic to cats?

Begonia dichotoma

Toxic to cats

Yes — forked 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. Like all Begonia species, Begonia dichotoma is listed by the ASPCA as toxic to cats and dogs. The toxic principle is soluble calcium oxalates concentrated in the tubers and roots; ingestion causes oral irritation, excessive drooling, nausea, and vomiting.

What to do if your cat ate forked begonia

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

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

Is forked begonia toxic to cats? — FAQ

Is forked begonia toxic to cats?

Yes — forked begonia is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. Like all Begonia species, Begonia dichotoma is listed by the ASPCA as toxic to cats and dogs. The toxic principle is soluble calcium oxalates concentrated in the tubers and roots; ingestion causes oral irritation, excessive drooling, nausea, and vomiting.

What are the symptoms if a cat eats forked begonia?

Like all Begonia species, Begonia dichotoma is listed by the ASPCA as toxic to cats and dogs. The toxic principle is soluble calcium oxalates concentrated in the tubers and roots; ingestion causes oral irritation, excessive drooling, nausea, and vomiting. 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 forked begonia.

What should I do if my cat ate forked 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 forked begonia toxic to dogs too?

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

What is a cat-safe alternative to forked 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 forked begonia pet-safety