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Is Taiwan Begonia toxic to cats?

Begonia formosana

Toxic to cats

Yes — taiwan 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 ASPCA lists the Begonia genus as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. The toxic principle is soluble calcium oxalates, which cause oral irritation, intense burning of the mouth, excessive salivation, and vomiting; the underground rhizomes contain the highest concentration.

What to do if your cat ate taiwan begonia

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

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

Is taiwan begonia toxic to cats? — FAQ

Is taiwan begonia toxic to cats?

Yes — taiwan begonia is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. The ASPCA lists the Begonia genus as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. The toxic principle is soluble calcium oxalates, which cause oral irritation, intense burning of the mouth, excessive salivation, and vomiting; the underground rhizomes contain the highest concentration.

What are the symptoms if a cat eats taiwan begonia?

The ASPCA lists the Begonia genus as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. The toxic principle is soluble calcium oxalates, which cause oral irritation, intense burning of the mouth, excessive salivation, and vomiting; the underground rhizomes contain the highest concentration. 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 taiwan begonia.

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

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

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