Is Begonia Toxic to Cats and Dogs?
Begonias are toxic to both cats and dogs. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) includes this popular plant on its list of plants that are toxic to pets because it contains substances that can cause a reaction if ingested.
The entire plant is a concern, but the highest concentration of the toxic compounds is found underground in the plant’s tubers or roots. Begonias are a very large group of plants, with over 1,000 species and many thousands of hybrids, and the toxicity applies to the entire genus.
Begonia: what the ASPCA database lists
| ASPCA entry | Begonia |
|---|---|
| Other common names | Over 1,000 species and 10,000 hybrids |
| Scientific name | Begonia spp. |
| Family | Begoniaceae |
| Toxic to | Toxic to Dogs, Toxic to Cats, Toxic to Horses |
| Non-toxic to | None listed |
| Toxic principles | Soluble calcium oxalates |
| Clinical signs listed | Kidney failure (in grazing animals), vomiting, salivation in dogs/cats. Most toxic part is underground. |
What the ASPCA says about begonia
The ASPCA identifies the toxic principles in plants of the Begonia spp. genus as soluble calcium oxalates. For cats and dogs, the organization lists clinical signs of ingestion as vomiting and excessive salivation or drooling. The ASPCA also notes that the most toxic part of the plant is underground.
The database entry also lists begonias as toxic to horses. It specifies that kidney failure is a potential sign in grazing animals that might consume a large quantity of the plant, which is a different situation from a house pet chewing on a leaf.
What this means for pets at home
The toxic principle in begonias is soluble calcium oxalates. If a cat or dog chews on or swallows part of the plant, these compounds can cause a painful reaction. This typically leads to the clinical signs of excessive drooling and vomiting as the pet’s body attempts to remove the substance.
While any part of the plant can cause this reaction, a pet that digs up and chews on the roots or tubers is at a higher risk because the oxalates are most concentrated there. The leaves and stems are also toxic. The severity of the reaction can depend on how much of the plant a pet eats.
Keeping cats, dogs, and this plant apart
The safest approach is to keep begonia plants out of your pet’s reach. For indoor plants, this could mean placing them on high shelves, in hanging baskets, or in a room that your pets cannot access. For outdoor begonias, consider planting them in fenced-off garden areas or in containers on a porch that is off-limits to your dog or cat.
Always supervise pets, especially curious puppies and kittens, around any plants. If you bring a new plant home, monitor your pet’s behavior closely. Providing safe chew toys and enrichment can also help redirect a pet’s natural curiosity away from household plants.
When to call your vet
If your pet chewed or ate part of this plant, call your veterinarian or an animal poison control line. Note which plant and which part, how much may be gone and when, and take a photo or a piece of the plant with you.
If you suspect your cat or dog has chewed on or eaten any part of a begonia plant, contact your veterinarian or a pet poison hotline for guidance. Be prepared to tell them what part of the plant your pet ate, how much you think they consumed, and when it happened. Do not try to induce vomiting at home unless specifically instructed to do so by a veterinary professional.
Emergency signs: go now
- Collapse, fainting or severe weakness
- Seizures, tremors or trouble standing
- Trouble breathing or blue, gray or very pale gums
- Repeated vomiting or retching, or a swollen, painful belly
- Any known contact with a substance listed as toxic, even before signs appear
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- Vomiting or diarrhea that lasts or keeps coming back
- Not eating or drinking, or drinking much more than usual
- Drooling, pawing at the mouth or a swollen face
- Lethargy, hiding or acting unlike themselves
ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: (888) 426-4435 (a consultation fee may apply). Your own vet or nearest emergency clinic is always a good first call.
Sources
Last checked October 21, 2026. Listings and guidance can change; your veterinarian knows your pet’s health history.