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Is Knotweed Begonia toxic to cats?

Begonia polygonoides

Toxic to cats

Yes — knotweed 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 (Begonia spp.) as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. The toxic principle is soluble calcium oxalates; the roots and underground parts contain the highest concentrations. Ingestion causes immediate oral burning, drooling, and vomiting in cats and dogs; in grazing animals kidney failure is a risk. The jointed, grass-like stems can attract curious cats — keep the plant out of reach.

What to do if your cat ate knotweed begonia

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

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

Is knotweed begonia toxic to cats? — FAQ

Is knotweed begonia toxic to cats?

Yes — knotweed 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; the roots and underground parts contain the highest concentrations. Ingestion causes immediate oral burning, drooling, and vomiting in cats and dogs; in grazing animals kidney failure is a risk. The jointed, grass-like stems can attract curious cats — keep the plant out of reach.

What are the symptoms if a cat eats knotweed begonia?

The ASPCA lists Begonia (Begonia spp.) as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. The toxic principle is soluble calcium oxalates; the roots and underground parts contain the highest concentrations. Ingestion causes immediate oral burning, drooling, and vomiting in cats and dogs; in grazing animals kidney failure is a risk. The jointed, grass-like stems can attract curious cats — keep the plant out of reach. 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 knotweed begonia.

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

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

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