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
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.
Begonia scharffiiBegonia scharfiiElephant-Ear Begonia
- Light
- Bright indirect light
- Habit
- Upright, bushy
- 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 that cause immediate irritation to the mouth and throat. If your cat has ingested this plant, please contact your veterinarian for guidance.
Dogs — concern notes
Common signs
Intense burning and irritation of the mouth, tongue, and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.
Escalation note
Ingestion of the plant tissues can lead to significant oral discomfort due to calcium oxalate crystals. Please consult your veterinarian if you suspect your dog has consumed any part of this plant.
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.
Kew Plants of the World Online
botanical · 95% reliability
Accepted scientific name and botanical classification for Begonia scharfii.
Often compared with
Commonly confused with
Same Begonia genus.
Metallic Leaf Begonia
Begonia metallica
Begonia metallica is a popular ornamental houseplant known for its textured, metallic-sheen foliage. It contains soluble calcium oxalates that can cause irritation if ingested by pets.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Same Begonia genus.
Wax Begonia
Begonia semperflorens
The Pink Pearl is a popular cultivar of wax begonia known for its waxy, succulent-like leaves and delicate pink flowers. It contains soluble calcium oxalates that 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
Monstera
Monstera deliciosa
Monstera deliciosa is a popular tropical houseplant known for its large, fenestrated leaves and vining growth habit. It contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that can cause irritation if ingested by pets.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Snake Plant
Dracaena trifasciata
Dracaena trifasciata is a popular, hardy houseplant known for its stiff, sword-like leaves with striking yellow margins. It is widely appreciated for its air-purifying qualities and ability to thrive in various indoor conditions.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Philodendron
Philodendron spp.
Philodendrons are popular tropical foliage plants known for their lush, heart-shaped or split leaves. They contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that can cause irritation if ingested.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Peace Lily
Spathiphyllum
The Mauna Loa Peace Lily is a popular indoor plant known for its elegant white spathes and lush foliage. It contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that can cause irritation upon contact or ingestion.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.