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Is Variegated-Colour Begonia toxic to cats?

Begonia versicolor

Toxic to cats

Yes — variegated-colour 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 versicolor belongs to the Begonia genus listed as toxic to cats and dogs by the ASPCA. Soluble calcium oxalates in the plant tissue cause oral irritation, salivation, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing; rhizome tissue carries the highest concentration.

What to do if your cat ate variegated-colour begonia

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

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

Is variegated-colour begonia toxic to cats? — FAQ

Is variegated-colour begonia toxic to cats?

Yes — variegated-colour begonia is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. Begonia versicolor belongs to the Begonia genus listed as toxic to cats and dogs by the ASPCA. Soluble calcium oxalates in the plant tissue cause oral irritation, salivation, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing; rhizome tissue carries the highest concentration.

What are the symptoms if a cat eats variegated-colour begonia?

Begonia versicolor belongs to the Begonia genus listed as toxic to cats and dogs by the ASPCA. Soluble calcium oxalates in the plant tissue cause oral irritation, salivation, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing; rhizome tissue carries 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 variegated-colour begonia.

What should I do if my cat ate variegated-colour 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 variegated-colour begonia toxic to dogs too?

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

What is a cat-safe alternative to variegated-colour 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 variegated-colour begonia pet-safety