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Is Luzon Begonia toxic to cats?

Begonia luzonensis

Toxic to cats

Yes — luzon 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 the Begonia genus as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. The toxic principle is soluble calcium oxalates, most concentrated in the underground (rhizome) parts; signs of ingestion include oral burning, hypersalivation, and vomiting.

What to do if your cat ate luzon begonia

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

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

Is luzon begonia toxic to cats? — FAQ

Is luzon begonia toxic to cats?

Yes — luzon 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 the Begonia genus as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. The toxic principle is soluble calcium oxalates, most concentrated in the underground (rhizome) parts; signs of ingestion include oral burning, hypersalivation, and vomiting.

What are the symptoms if a cat eats luzon begonia?

The ASPCA lists the Begonia genus as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. The toxic principle is soluble calcium oxalates, most concentrated in the underground (rhizome) parts; signs of ingestion include oral burning, hypersalivation, 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 luzon begonia.

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

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

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