Growli
Let's go

Pet safety

Is Elm-Leaf Begonia toxic to dogs?

Begonia ulmifolia

Toxic to dogs

Yes — elm-leaf begonia is toxic to dogs according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any dog that chews plants; reactions can be significant. This classification follows the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant List. Begonia ulmifolia is toxic to cats and dogs per ASPCA guidance for the Begonia genus. Soluble calcium oxalates throughout the plant cause immediate oral burning, hypersalivation, vomiting, and dysphagia on ingestion.

What to do if your dog ate elm-leaf begonia

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

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

Is elm-leaf begonia toxic to dogs? — FAQ

Is elm-leaf begonia toxic to dogs?

Yes — elm-leaf begonia is toxic to dogs according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any dog that chews plants; reactions can be significant. Begonia ulmifolia is toxic to cats and dogs per ASPCA guidance for the Begonia genus. Soluble calcium oxalates throughout the plant cause immediate oral burning, hypersalivation, vomiting, and dysphagia on ingestion.

What are the symptoms if a dog eats elm-leaf begonia?

Begonia ulmifolia is toxic to cats and dogs per ASPCA guidance for the Begonia genus. Soluble calcium oxalates throughout the plant cause immediate oral burning, hypersalivation, vomiting, and dysphagia on ingestion. 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 dog has had access to elm-leaf begonia.

What should I do if my dog ate elm-leaf begonia?

Stay calm. Remove any plant from your dog'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 elm-leaf begonia toxic to cats too?

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

What is a dog-safe alternative to elm-leaf begonia?

For a similar look without the risk, see the best dogs-safe plants list — every plant there is ASPCA non-toxic to cats and dogs.

Full elm-leaf begonia pet-safety