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Is Mistletoe Begonia toxic to cats?

Begonia loranthoides

Toxic to cats

Yes — mistletoe 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. Soluble calcium oxalates are the toxic principle, with the highest concentrations in the underground parts; clinical signs include oral irritation, hypersalivation, and vomiting.

What to do if your cat ate mistletoe begonia

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

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

Is mistletoe begonia toxic to cats? — FAQ

Is mistletoe begonia toxic to cats?

Yes — mistletoe 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. Soluble calcium oxalates are the toxic principle, with the highest concentrations in the underground parts; clinical signs include oral irritation, hypersalivation, and vomiting.

What are the symptoms if a cat eats mistletoe begonia?

The ASPCA lists the Begonia genus as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. Soluble calcium oxalates are the toxic principle, with the highest concentrations in the underground parts; clinical signs include oral irritation, 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 mistletoe begonia.

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

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

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