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Is Tiger Paws Begonia toxic to cats?

Begonia bowerae 'Tiger Paws'

Toxic to cats

Yes — tiger paws 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 as toxic to cats and dogs; the toxic principle is soluble calcium oxalates and signs are vomiting and salivation. The most toxic part is underground (the rhizome). Keep out of reach of pets.

What to do if your cat ate tiger paws begonia

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

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

Is tiger paws begonia toxic to cats? — FAQ

Is tiger paws begonia toxic to cats?

Yes — tiger paws 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 as toxic to cats and dogs; the toxic principle is soluble calcium oxalates and signs are vomiting and salivation. The most toxic part is underground (the rhizome). Keep out of reach of pets.

What are the symptoms if a cat eats tiger paws begonia?

ASPCA lists Begonia as toxic to cats and dogs; the toxic principle is soluble calcium oxalates and signs are vomiting and salivation. The most toxic part is underground (the rhizome). Keep out of reach of pets. 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 tiger paws begonia.

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

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

What is a cat-safe alternative to tiger paws 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 tiger paws begonia pet-safety