Cats & Dogs
Potentially toxicConsulted references classify the plant as toxic or irritating for that pet type.
Verified against ASPCA/provenance audit 2026-05-06 on May 6, 2026.
Sources
Pet safety reference
Rex Begonia
Begonia rex
The Peace Begonia is a popular ornamental houseplant prized for its vibrant, patterned foliage. It contains soluble calcium oxalates that can cause irritation if ingested by pets.
Begonia rexBegonia rex 'peace'Painted-leaf BegoniaPeace Begonia
- Light
- Bright indirect light
- Habit
- Clumping
- Care
- Moderate
Safety status
If a pet has chewed or swallowed plant material and is showing symptoms, contact a veterinarian or poison resource immediately. This product is for structured reference, not diagnosis.
Cats — concern notes
Common signs
Oral irritation, excessive drooling, difficulty swallowing, and vomiting.
Escalation note
The plant contains soluble calcium oxalates which cause immediate irritation upon contact with the mouth and throat. Please contact your veterinarian if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs — concern notes
Common signs
Oral irritation, intense burning of the mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, and vomiting.
Escalation note
Ingestion typically results in immediate discomfort due to the presence of calcium oxalate crystals. Please contact your veterinarian if ingestion is suspected.
Safer alternatives
No hand-picked alternatives for this plant yet. You can still pick your own using the Compare button on any other plant.
Source evidence
ASPCA Toxic Plant List
toxicology · 99% reliability
Begonia species contain soluble calcium oxalates that are toxic to dogs and cats.
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
Begonia rex is a rhizomatous perennial known for its decorative, colorful leaves.
Often compared with
Commonly confused with
Same Begonia genus.
Mapleleaf Begonia
Begonia cleopatra
Begonia cleopatra is a popular ornamental houseplant known for its striking, maple-shaped foliage. It contains soluble calcium oxalates that can cause irritation if ingested by pets.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Same Begonia genus.
Elephant-Ear Begonia
Begonia scharfii
Begonia scharfii is a popular ornamental plant known for its large, fuzzy, elephant-ear-shaped leaves and delicate clusters of flowers. It contains soluble calcium oxalates which can cause irritation if ingested by pets.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Same Begonia genus.
Iron Cross Begonia
Begonia masoniana
Begonia masoniana is a popular ornamental houseplant known for its textured, puckered leaves featuring a distinct dark brown cross pattern. It contains soluble calcium oxalates that can cause irritation if ingested by pets.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Same genus
More from the Begonia genus
Same safety verdict
Other plants with the same verdict
Bird of Paradise
Strelitzia reginae
The Bird of Paradise is a popular tropical houseplant known for its striking, crane-like orange and blue flowers. While visually stunning, it contains compounds that can cause gastrointestinal distress if ingested by pets.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Caladium
Caladium hortulanum
Caladiums are popular tropical foliage plants known for their vibrant, heart-shaped leaves. They contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that can cause irritation if ingested.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Carnation
Dianthus caryophyllus
The carnation is a popular flowering plant known for its ruffled petals and spicy fragrance. While beautiful in bouquets, it contains compounds that can cause mild irritation if ingested by pets.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Chinese Evergreen
Aglaonema modestum
Chinese Evergreen is a popular indoor foliage plant known for its patterned leaves and tolerance of low light conditions. It contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that can cause irritation if ingested or chewed.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Same growing conditions
Plants for the same room
Asparagus Fern
Asparagus densiflorus
The Asparagus Fern is a popular, feathery houseplant that is actually a member of the lily family. Despite its delicate appearance, it contains toxic compounds that can cause irritation if ingested by pets.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Cirrhopetalum
Bulbophyllum appendiculatum
Cirrhopetalum is a unique, exotic orchid known for its intricate, fan-like flower structures. It is generally considered safe for households with pets, though its fibrous nature may cause minor digestive discomfort if consumed in large quantities.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Cocktail Orchid
Cattleya forbesii
The Cocktail Orchid is a popular epiphytic orchid known for its unique, fragrant blooms and ease of care in indoor environments. It is considered non-toxic to pets, though its fibrous nature may cause minor digestive discomfort if consumed in large quantities.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Crossandra
Crossandra infundibuliformis
Crossandra is a vibrant, tropical flowering plant known for its bright orange, fan-shaped blooms and glossy foliage. It is considered safe for households with pets, though ingestion of large amounts of plant material may cause minor digestive discomfort.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.