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Is Spreading Begonia toxic to cats?

Begonia extensa

Toxic to cats

Yes — spreading 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. Begonia extensa is a member of the genus Begonia, which the ASPCA lists as toxic to cats and dogs. Soluble calcium oxalates cause oral burning, hypersalivation, and vomiting on ingestion; concentrations are highest in roots and underground stems.

What to do if your cat ate spreading begonia

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

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

Is spreading begonia toxic to cats? — FAQ

Is spreading begonia toxic to cats?

Yes — spreading begonia is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. Begonia extensa is a member of the genus Begonia, which the ASPCA lists as toxic to cats and dogs. Soluble calcium oxalates cause oral burning, hypersalivation, and vomiting on ingestion; concentrations are highest in roots and underground stems.

What are the symptoms if a cat eats spreading begonia?

Begonia extensa is a member of the genus Begonia, which the ASPCA lists as toxic to cats and dogs. Soluble calcium oxalates cause oral burning, hypersalivation, and vomiting on ingestion; concentrations are highest in roots and underground stems. 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 spreading begonia.

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

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

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