Cats
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
cat safety reference
Is Elephant-Ear Begonia safe for cats?
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
What this means for your cat
Begonias are mostly a problem for cats when they chew the leaves, but the toxic principle (soluble calcium oxalates) is concentrated in the underground tubers — so a cat digging in the pot is more concerning than one batting at a leaf. Most exposures cause mild drooling and stomach upset; the serious systemic effects ASPCA notes (kidney failure) are reported in grazing animals, not house cats. Still, watch for vomiting and call if it persists.
What to watch for
Drooling and lip-licking. Vomiting. Reduced appetite. Symptoms tend to be mild when only leaves were chewed; ingestion of root or tuber material may be more pronounced.
Time window
Salivation and vomiting typically appear within a few hours of ingestion; most cats recover within 24 hours. Exact onset and duration are not well documented in the ASPCA listing.
When to call the vet
Call your vet or ASPCA Poison Control at (888) 426-4435 if vomiting is repeated, lasts more than a few hours, or your cat seems lethargic. Any suspicion that your cat dug up and chewed the tuber warrants a same-day call.
Sources: ASPCA (no first-aid guidance).
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.
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.
Same cat verdict
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