Are Begonias Toxic to Cats? Symptoms & What to Do

Mildly toxic

Yes, begonias are mildly toxic to cats

Begonias contain oxalates, which are concentrated in the underground tubers. Leaves usually cause mild mouth irritation; dogs that dig up tubers can be more affected.

Begonias and cats: key facts

Toxic to cats?	Mildly toxic
Toxic to dogs?	Mildly toxic
Scientific name	Begonia spp.
Also called	wax begonia, rex begonia, tuberous begonia
Toxic compound	Insoluble calcium oxalate crystals
Toxic parts	All parts; the tubers are the most toxic
Signs usually start	Immediate (within minutes of chewing)
Plant type	Houseplant

Symptoms of begonias poisoning in cats

Mouth irritation and burning
Drooling
Vomiting
Difficulty swallowing

Why begonias are toxic to cats

The plant cells contain bundles of needle-shaped calcium oxalate crystals (raphides). When a pet bites into the leaf, the crystals are ejected and embed in the mouth, tongue and throat, causing immediate burning pain, drooling and swelling. The crystals are not absorbed into the body, so organ damage is not expected.

What to do if your cat ate begonias

Remove plant pieces from your cat's mouth and move cats away from the plant. Wipe sap or pollen off the fur and paws with a damp cloth.
Call your vet or animal poison control for advice: ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 · Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661.
Identify the plant. Take a photo or bring a piece (or the plant label) to the vet, and estimate how much was eaten and when.
Do not make your cat vomit unless a vet tells you to. Home remedies such as hydrogen peroxide or salt can cause serious harm, and hydrogen peroxide is not safe for cats.
Watch for mouth irritation and burning, drooling, vomiting. Go to a vet if signs are severe, last more than a day, or your cat has trouble breathing or swallowing.

Treatment and outlook

Most cases need only supportive care. Gently rinse your pet's mouth with water and offer water to drink. A vet may give pain relief, anti-nausea medicine or an antihistamine for swelling. Go to a vet right away if you see swelling of the throat or any trouble breathing.

How to keep your cat away from begonias

Place begonias on high shelves or in hanging planters away from furniture cats can climb, or in a room your cat cannot enter.
Give your cat something better to chew: a pot of cat grass or catnip often distracts cats from houseplants.
Pick up fallen leaves, petals and pollen promptly, and empty vases where pets can reach them.

Pet-safe alternatives to begonias

If you love houseplants, these are listed as non-toxic to cats by the ASPCA:

See the full list of plants safe for cats.

Begonias and cats: FAQ

Are begonias poisonous to cats?

Begonias are mildly toxic to cats. Insoluble calcium oxalate crystals can cause mouth irritation and burning and drooling, but serious poisoning is uncommon.

What part of begonias is toxic to cats?

All parts; the tubers are the most toxic.

Can cats die from eating begonias?

It is very unlikely. Begonias usually cause mild, short-lived signs. See a vet if signs are severe or your cat has trouble breathing or swallowing.

How long after eating begonias will my cat show symptoms?

Immediate (within minutes of chewing).

Are begonias toxic to dogs too?

Yes, begonias are mildly toxic to dogs.

Other plants toxic to cats

Sources

Toxicity ratings follow the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center plant lists. Severity depends on the amount eaten, the part of the plant and your cat's size and health. When in doubt, call your vet.

Are Begonias Toxic to Cats?