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Is Soft-Stemmed Begonia toxic to dogs?

Begonia mollicaulis

Toxic to dogs

Yes — soft-stemmed 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. ASPCA lists Begonia species as toxic to cats and dogs via soluble calcium oxalates, with the highest concentration in underground parts. Symptoms include oral irritation, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.

What to do if your dog ate soft-stemmed begonia

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

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

Is soft-stemmed begonia toxic to dogs? — FAQ

Is soft-stemmed begonia toxic to dogs?

Yes — soft-stemmed begonia is toxic to dogs according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any dog that chews plants; reactions can be significant. ASPCA lists Begonia species as toxic to cats and dogs via soluble calcium oxalates, with the highest concentration in underground parts. Symptoms include oral irritation, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.

What are the symptoms if a dog eats soft-stemmed begonia?

ASPCA lists Begonia species as toxic to cats and dogs via soluble calcium oxalates, with the highest concentration in underground parts. Symptoms include oral irritation, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. 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 soft-stemmed begonia.

What should I do if my dog ate soft-stemmed 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 soft-stemmed begonia toxic to cats too?

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

What is a dog-safe alternative to soft-stemmed 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 soft-stemmed begonia pet-safety