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Is Soft-Stemmed Begonia toxic to cats?

Begonia mollicaulis

Toxic to cats

Yes — soft-stemmed 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 via soluble calcium oxalates, with the highest concentration in underground parts. Symptoms include oral irritation, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.

What to do if your cat ate soft-stemmed begonia

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

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

Is soft-stemmed begonia toxic to cats? — FAQ

Is soft-stemmed begonia toxic to cats?

Yes — soft-stemmed 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 via soluble calcium oxalates, with the highest concentration in underground parts. Symptoms include oral irritation, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.

What are the symptoms if a cat eats soft-stemmed begonia?

ASPCA lists Begonia species as toxic to cats and dogs via soluble calcium oxalates, with the highest concentration in underground parts. Symptoms include oral irritation, 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 soft-stemmed begonia.

What should I do if my cat ate soft-stemmed 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 soft-stemmed begonia toxic to dogs too?

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

What is a cat-safe alternative to soft-stemmed 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 soft-stemmed begonia pet-safety