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
Begonia
Begonia spp.
Begonias are popular ornamental plants known for their diverse foliage and vibrant flowers. They contain soluble calcium oxalates which can cause irritation if ingested by pets.
Begonia spp.Rex BegoniaTuberous BegoniaWax Begonia
- Light
- Bright indirect light
- Habit
- Mounding or trailing
- 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
Excessive drooling, vomiting, difficulty swallowing, and oral irritation.
Escalation note
The tubers are the most toxic part of the plant. If your cat has ingested any part of a begonia, please contact your veterinarian or a pet poison control center immediately.
Dogs — concern notes
Common signs
Drooling, vomiting, decreased appetite, and irritation of the mouth, tongue, and lips.
Escalation note
Ingestion of the plant, particularly the underground tubers, can cause significant oral discomfort. Consult your veterinarian if you suspect your dog has consumed this plant.
Safer alternatives
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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 is a large genus of perennial flowering plants in the family Begoniaceae.
Often compared with
Commonly confused with
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 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 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.
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.