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Is Shining-Leaf Begonia toxic to cats?

Begonia nitida

Toxic to cats

Yes — shining-leaf 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. ASPCA lists Begonia species as toxic to cats and dogs. Soluble calcium oxalates are the toxic principle (highest in roots/tubers). Signs of ingestion include oral pain, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.

What to do if your cat ate shining-leaf begonia

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

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

Is shining-leaf begonia toxic to cats? — FAQ

Is shining-leaf begonia toxic to cats?

Yes — shining-leaf begonia is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. ASPCA lists Begonia species as toxic to cats and dogs. Soluble calcium oxalates are the toxic principle (highest in roots/tubers). Signs of ingestion include oral pain, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.

What are the symptoms if a cat eats shining-leaf begonia?

ASPCA lists Begonia species as toxic to cats and dogs. Soluble calcium oxalates are the toxic principle (highest in roots/tubers). Signs of ingestion include oral pain, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. 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 shining-leaf begonia.

What should I do if my cat ate shining-leaf 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 shining-leaf begonia toxic to dogs too?

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

What is a cat-safe alternative to shining-leaf 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 shining-leaf begonia pet-safety