Plant safety record

Begonia

Begonia spp.

Begonia can cause vomiting and salivation in cats and dogs. The evidence here covers the genus, and names such as Watermelon Begonia need care because they can refer to a different plant.

Representative Begonia semperflorens plant with clustered flowers and green leaves.
Representative species image. Photo: Juni from Kyoto, Japan · CC BY 2.0 · Image credits

Cats

TOXIC

Begonia should be treated as toxic to cats within this genus-level evidence scope.

Dogs

TOXIC

Begonia should be treated as toxic to dogs within this genus-level evidence scope.

Quick answer

Treat this genus-level Begonia record as toxic for both cats and dogs. Vomiting and salivation are listed effects.

Plant identity

Scientific identity: Begonia spp.

Identity level: GENUS

Safety for cats and dogs

For cats: Begonia should be treated as toxic to cats within this genus-level evidence scope.

For dogs: Begonia should be treated as toxic to dogs within this genus-level evidence scope.

Supported toxic principle: Soluble calcium oxalates

What can happen

Possible signs: vomiting, salivation.

If ingestion is suspected, remove access to the plant and contact a veterinarian or animal poison-control service for case-specific advice.

Identity clarification

The ASPCA identifies the underground portion as the most toxic portion. Watermelon Begonia must not be assumed to be a Begonia identity because that common name is also used for a Peperomia.

Sources

Record support

Report a correction to this record