Is Begonia Toxic to Cats?

Begonia species

Begonias contain soluble oxalates, concentrated in the tubers. Eating the leaves causes drooling and vomiting; the tuber is the part that matters if a cat digs in a pot.

They are everywhere in British summer bedding and as houseplants, and the fibrous-rooted types shed leaves constantly.

Which parts are dangerous

• tubers
• leaves
• stems

What to watch for in the UK

• Summer bedding in pots and hanging baskets.
• Houseplant begonias drop leaves onto the carpet.
• Tubers are dug up from hanging baskets in autumn.
• Wear gloves when handling, as sap irritates human skin.

If your cat has already chewed it

1. Phone your vet if a tuber was chewed.
2. Rinse the mouth and offer water.
3. Watch for vomiting and drooling.

Take a photo of the plant, and a cutting if you can do it safely — identification is half of the vet's decision. Out of hours, use your practice's emergency number. This page explains risk; it cannot diagnose your cat and it contains no home treatments.

If your cat has vomited after eating a plant, see the cat vomiting guide and, if there is blood, vomiting blood. For a general red-flag checklist, use sick cat symptoms. If the worry is food rather than a plant, the can cats eat guide covers 36 everyday foods.

Related plants

Browse the full UK plant checklist (72 plants).