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Is Ringed Begonia toxic to cats?

Begonia annulata

Toxic to cats

Yes — ringed 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 genus Begonia is listed as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses by the ASPCA. Contains soluble calcium oxalates concentrated especially in the underground parts; ingestion causes vomiting, excessive salivation, and in grazing animals potential kidney failure.

What to do if your cat ate ringed begonia

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

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

Is ringed begonia toxic to cats? — FAQ

Is ringed begonia toxic to cats?

Yes — ringed begonia is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. The genus Begonia is listed as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses by the ASPCA. Contains soluble calcium oxalates concentrated especially in the underground parts; ingestion causes vomiting, excessive salivation, and in grazing animals potential kidney failure.

What are the symptoms if a cat eats ringed begonia?

The genus Begonia is listed as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses by the ASPCA. Contains soluble calcium oxalates concentrated especially in the underground parts; ingestion causes vomiting, excessive salivation, and in grazing animals potential kidney failure. 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 ringed begonia.

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

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

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