Is Basil toxic to cats?
Is Basil toxic to cats?
Basil is commonly listed as non-toxic for cats and dogs. Keep seasonings, oils, and treated soil away from pets.
Names to check
Basil common and scientific names
Scientific name: Ocimum basilicum
Also searched as: sweet basil
Common names can point to different plants. When buying or identifying a plant, use the scientific name on the label when possible.
What sources say
Source-backed safety notes
Basil is commonly listed as non-toxic for cats and dogs. Keep seasonings, oils, and treated soil away from pets.
Even plants reported as non-toxic can cause stomach upset if a pet eats enough leaves, soil, fertilizer, or treated stems.
Safer alternatives to consider
These are not guarantees for every pet, but they are better starting points than plants marked toxic or high-risk.
Reported non-toxic
Catnip
Nepeta cataria
Catnip is commonly listed as non-toxic for cats and is intentionally grown for cats. Use moderation because too much can cause stomach upset.
Reported non-toxic
Spider Plant
Chlorophytum comosum
Spider plant is commonly listed as non-toxic for cats and dogs. Cats may still chew it, so watch for stomach upset.
Reported non-toxic
Rose
Rosa species
Roses are commonly reported as non-toxic to cats, dogs, and horses, but thorns, pesticides, and fertilizers can still cause problems.
Last reviewed and corrections
Last reviewed: 2026-06-13. If you find a source mismatch or a plant-name issue, send the exact plant name and source through the contact page.