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are begonia rex toxic to cats

by Ms. Effie Bernhard Published 3 years ago Updated 3 years ago

The ASPCA lists Rex Begonias as toxic to both cats and dogs.Jul 13, 2021

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Are begonias Rex poisonous to cats?

All begonia species are toxic to cats, including wax begonias, Boliviensis begonias, Reiger begonias, Rex begonias, dragon wing begonias, and cane begonias.

What if my cat eats a begonia?

The crystals in a Begonia plant can be quite irritating to a cats GI tract. If Chico continues to vomit, or is salivating or doesn't want to eat, he should be seen by a veterinarian as soon as possible. He may recover on his own, but you will need to monitor him closely over the next few days.

What part of begonia is poisonous to cats?

Begonias are common plants that are poisonous to cats. The roots are particularly toxic.

Is rex begonia plant poisonous?

Is Begonia rex poisonous? Begonia rex can be toxic.

Do cats like begonias?

Yes, begonias are toxic to cats. Many begonia species are toxic to cats, despite their beauty. They are popular garden and houseplants, with over 1,000 species and even more hybrids.

Which plants are OK for cats?

21 Plants That Are Safe for Cats and DogsRattlesnake Plant. ... Spider Plant. ... Parlor Palm. ... Calathea Orbifolia. ... Ponytail Palm. ... (Certain) Succulents. ... African Violet. ... Bird's Nest Fern.More items...•

Are succulents toxic to cats?

Luckily, most succulents are considered non-toxic and are harmless to pets when ingested. Others contain skin irritants that can cause minor skin irritations, and some can cause mild symptoms when ingested.

What if my cat eats a poisonous plant?

If you suspect that your cat may have eaten a poisonous plant, you must act quickly:Prevent your cat (and other pets) from eating any more of the plant.Note the time the cat ate the plant and any symptoms.Contact your vet for advice immediately, even if your cat seems well.More items...

Are snake plants safe for cats?

The plant: Snake plant However, it's toxic to cats, warns the ASCPA. Snake plants contain chemical compounds called saponins, which result in feline nausea, vomiting and diarrhea if consumed or chewed on.

Is Begonia rex an indoor plant?

Rex begonia (Begonia rex-cultorum) is a semi-tropical perennial plant normally grown as an outdoor container plant or houseplant.

Are spider plants toxic to cats?

Unlike peace lilies and pothos, Chlorophytum comosum is one houseplant that can be safely nibbled by your kitties without requiring a trip to the emergency animal hospital. According to both the ASPCA and the National Capital Poison Center, aka Poison Control, spider plants are non-toxic to both cats and dogs.

Are aloe plants toxic to cats?

Aloe juice and pulp can be used to treat a variety of conditions in people, but it is highly toxic to cats. Keep aloe plants away from cats, like on your refrigerator or in your bedroom, and spray the plants with vinegar to make them less tasty to curious felines who find them.

What happens if a cat eats a begonia plant?

Once ingested, the oxalate crystals embed themselves in various tissues causing irritation and can break down into 'oxalic acid' , which is also a potent irritant. The cat's body will attempt to avoid further irritation and damage to the digestive tract by vomiting and attempting to dilute the acid with saliva. Eventually, a quantity of the toxin will make its way into the bloodstream, taking it to the liver. This turn of events can be especially dangerous, as in sufficient quantities oxalic acid can induce catastrophic liver failure, leading to serious illness and even death.#N#Top

How long does it take for a cat to recover from begonia poisoning?

The total recovery time for a severe case of begonia poisoning is surprisingly short, with most being resolved within the space of two weeks at a maximum and follow up appointments not usually being necessary. The reason for this is that the oxalate crystals quickly lose their potency, meaning that without ingesting more, the levels of oxalic acid in the body will quickly fade. This is good news for cats and their owners, as it means that the amount of time that exercise and normal feeding will be restricted for will be kept to a minimum. However, if there has been notable damage to the esophagus, then the vet may opt to temporarily install a feeding tube (most likely in the form of a nasal catheter). This will prevent the cat from stressing damaged tissues in the digestive tract by swallowing, instead subsisting on a liquid diet until they are sufficiently healed.

How long does it take for a begonia to clear?

Most cases of begonia poisoning are fairly mild, clearing up by themselves in roughly forty eight hours. The vet may however recommend a diet of liquid foods, as these are both easier on the stomach and will help dislodge any oxalate crystals still lodged in the digestive system. Anti-inflammatories will be needed in order to reduce any swelling in the throat and ensure a clear airway. Additional drugs may also be required in order to increase the viscosity of the stomach contents and thereby protect the stomach lining. Depending whether or not dehydration has set in, fluid therapy may also be needed.#N#Top

Can begonias be eaten?

However, gardeners should be aware that de spite its alluring appearance, the begonia can be surprisingly toxic if eaten. Cats and other small mammals are especially vulnerable to the effects due to the relatively small amount of begonia that will need to be eaten in order to cause damage and discomfort.

Can a cat eat begonia?

The crystals in a Begonia plant can be quite irritating to a cats GI tract. If Chico continues to vomit, or is salivating or doesn't want to eat, he should be seen by a veterinarian as soon as possible. He may recover on his own, but you will need to monitor him closely over the next few days.

Is lily poisonous to cats?

Lilies. Members of the Lilium family are considered to be highly toxic to cats.

Can begonias cause a dog's mouth to burn?

Begonias These flowers thrive in springtime in a wide variety of climates but their stems – particularly the part rooted underground – can cause acute toxicity if ingested by dogs and cats. If eaten, begonias can result in an extreme burning in your pet's mouth , swollen tongue or lips, and even difficulty swallowing.

More About Begonias

There are at least 1,000 species of begonias out there, and each variety is unique. The most common begonia is the wax, also known as a bedding and annual begonia.

Are Begonias Poisonous to Cats?

As we discussed previously, begonias are most definitely poisonous for cats. The ASPCA has placed begonias in their toxic plants category as toxic for cats, dogs, and horses.

Symptoms of Begonia Poisoning

When cats eat any part of a begonia, they release the soluble calcium oxalate crystals, which will combine with the calcium found in the bloodstream. This can lead to hypocalcemia, or low calcium levels, which can eventually result in kidney failure, although this is more common in horses and grazing animals.

Treatment of Begonia Poisoning

When you take your cat to your vet’s clinic, be sure to bring the plant that your cat ingested just so the vet will know for certain how to treat the symptoms. The vet will run tests just to be sure that your cat did eat part of a begonia, which will include blood tests as well as a physical examination.

Taking Care of Your Cat at Home

As we mentioned, most begonia poisoning cases will resolve themselves within 48 hours, but the more serious cases might take up to two weeks for complete recovery. Part of the recovery includes your cat’s body ridding itself of the excess oxalate crystals.

How to Prevent Your Cat From Getting Into the Begonias

If you keep begonias in your house, you could consider placing them inside an enclosed terrarium or in a room that your cat doesn’t have access to. Additionally, if you can hang them from the ceiling away from any surfaces that will allow your cat to jump from is another option.

What Other Plants Contain Soluble Calcium Oxalates?

Both insoluble and soluble calcium oxalates are found in various plants. Here, we’re only looking at soluble calcium oxalates as that’s what is found in begonias.

How to keep cats away from begonia planters?

Using various indoor repellents as well as homemade ones such as chili pepper sprays. Placing a few peels of lemons on your begonia planter or pot will help repel your felines. For outdoors, there are repellents and deterrents, such as those that sprinkle water or flashlights.

What houseplants are toxic to cats?

Besides begonias, other houseplants and ornamentals that are toxic to your feline pal include the following: Aloe vera . Azalea. Cala lily. Chrysanthemum. Cyclamen. Daffodils. English ivy. Jade plants.

What is a begonia?

Begonia is a genus name for over 1800 perennial flowering plant species belonging to the family Begoniaceae native to tropical and subtropical moisty climates. However, in colder temperatures, they make perfect indoor houseplants, or you can cultivate them during summers.

Why are oxalates dangerous?

They are harmful or dangerous because they have soluble oxalates which, when ingested, may result in the following symptoms: Drooling or salvation. Vomiting. Kindy damage (com monly noted in horses or grazing animals) Reduce appetite. Difficulties in swallowing. Swollen mouth and tongue.

What happens when you swallow oxalate?

Reduce appetite. Difficulties in swallowing. Swollen mouth and tongue. Redness around their mouth and lips. For starters, when the oxalate will embed themselves in various tissues resulting in irritation, they can also be broken down to oxalic acid.

Can cats eat begonia leaves?

While the leaves are not as toxic as the part under the ground, cats are still not safe. Therefore, besi des not planting them, other ways to ensure these animals don’t eat your begonias include:

Is a begonia poisonous to cats?

Additionally, all parts of begonias are poisonous to cats, with the most toxic ones being the tubers.

Do Cats Like Begonias?

It is entirely dependent on the cat and its personality whether or not it likes begonia.

Are Begonias Toxic To Cats?

Many begonia species are toxic to cats, despite their beauty. They are popular garden and houseplants, with over 1,000 species and even more hybrids.

What Happens If A Cat Eats A Begonia?

If a cat eats begonia, it can show symptoms like vomiting, excessive salivation, and throat irritation.

How Poisonous Are Begonias To Cats?

Begonias are very poisonous to cats if eaten in large quantities and can even result in death if not treated quickly.

What Part Of Begonia Is Poisonous To Cats?

Tuberous roots underground are the most poisonous part of begonia to cats.

Are Begonias Leaves Poisonous To Cats?

Cats are poisoned by all of the over 1000 species of begonia. Your cat’s mouth will most likely burn after eating begonia leaves, and vomiting may occur.

Are Angel Wing Begonias Poisonous To Cats?

The Begoniaceae family includes the Angel Wing Begonia plant, which was first discovered in the tropical and subtropical regions of South America.

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