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Is Reunion Island Begonia toxic to cats?

Begonia salaziensis

Toxic to cats

Yes — reunion island 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. As a Begonia species it is toxic to cats and dogs per the ASPCA; soluble calcium oxalates (highest in tubers and roots) cause oral burning, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing upon ingestion.

What to do if your cat ate reunion island begonia

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

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

Is reunion island begonia toxic to cats? — FAQ

Is reunion island begonia toxic to cats?

Yes — reunion island begonia is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. As a Begonia species it is toxic to cats and dogs per the ASPCA; soluble calcium oxalates (highest in tubers and roots) cause oral burning, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing upon ingestion.

What are the symptoms if a cat eats reunion island begonia?

As a Begonia species it is toxic to cats and dogs per the ASPCA; soluble calcium oxalates (highest in tubers and roots) cause oral burning, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing upon ingestion. 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 reunion island begonia.

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

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

What is a cat-safe alternative to reunion island 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 reunion island begonia pet-safety