Indoors and out
Is Basil toxic to cats and dogs?
Ocimum basilicum · also called Sweet basil, Thai basil
Cats
Non-toxicDogs
Non-toxicBasil is non-toxic to cats and dogs. A nibble from the kitchen pot is harmless, though a lot may cause a mild stomach upset.
By Maya HartSigns to watch for
- Mild vomiting after eating a lot
If a lot was eaten
No treatment is usually needed. Large amounts of any plant can cause a mild stomach upset, so call your vet if vomiting continues or your pet seems unwell.
The details
Basil is one of the safest culinary herbs to grow in a pet home, and a good choice for a windowsill herb garden. Just keep it away from chives, which are toxic, and be careful with pesto: most recipes contain garlic, and some include nuts and lots of oil.
Questions owners ask
Is Basil toxic to cats?
No. It is listed as non-toxic to cats.
Is Basil toxic to dogs?
No. It is listed as non-toxic to dogs.
What happens if a pet eats basil?
mild vomiting after eating a lot.
What should I do if my pet chewed it?
No treatment is usually needed. Large amounts of any plant can cause a mild stomach upset, so call your vet if vomiting continues or your pet seems unwell.
Sources
Tailwise is for general information and is reviewed by veterinary professionals, but it is not a substitute for advice from your own vet, who knows your pet. How we check facts
