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Is Primrose-Flower Begonia toxic to cats?

Begonia primuliflora

Toxic to cats

Yes — primrose-flower 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.) as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses via soluble calcium oxalates, causing oral irritation, salivation, and vomiting. The underground portions of the plant contain the highest concentration of oxalates. Keep away from pets and children.

What to do if your cat ate primrose-flower begonia

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

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

Is primrose-flower begonia toxic to cats? — FAQ

Is primrose-flower begonia toxic to cats?

Yes — primrose-flower 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.) as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses via soluble calcium oxalates, causing oral irritation, salivation, and vomiting. The underground portions of the plant contain the highest concentration of oxalates. Keep away from pets and children.

What are the symptoms if a cat eats primrose-flower begonia?

The ASPCA lists Begonia species (Begonia spp.) as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses via soluble calcium oxalates, causing oral irritation, salivation, and vomiting. The underground portions of the plant contain the highest concentration of oxalates. 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 primrose-flower begonia.

What should I do if my cat ate primrose-flower 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 primrose-flower begonia toxic to dogs too?

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

What is a cat-safe alternative to primrose-flower 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 primrose-flower begonia pet-safety