Cats
Generally safeConsulted references do not classify the plant as toxic for that pet type, while still allowing for mild GI upset if large amounts are chewed.
Verified against ASPCA/provenance audit 2026-05-06 on May 6, 2026.
cat safety reference
Is Basil safe for cats?
Ocimum basilicum
Basil is a popular culinary herb known for its aromatic leaves and ease of growth in sunny indoor or outdoor environments. It is considered safe for pets, though large ingestions of fibrous plant material may occasionally cause minor digestive discomfort.
Genovese BasilOcimum basilicumSweet Basil
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- Habit
- Upright
- Care
- Moderate
Safety status
What this means for your cat
Safe for cats — ASPCA lists basil as non-toxic to cats and names no toxic principle. A few chewed leaves are no cause for concern, though concentrated basil essential oils are a separate hazard for cats and shouldn't be applied or diffused around them.
Sources: ASPCA.
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
None expected; however, excessive consumption of fibrous plant matter may lead to mild vomiting or diarrhea.
Escalation note
Generally considered safe. If your cat consumes a large amount and shows signs of distress, contact your veterinarian for guidance.
Bring it home
Basilis generally pet-safe in ordinary household exposure. If you’d like one for your space, here’s a starting point.
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Source evidence
Questions about Basil
Is basil safe for cats?
Yes, basil (Ocimum basilicum) is considered non-toxic to cats. It does not contain compounds known to cause poisoning, so occasional contact or nibbling is not a cause for alarm.
What happens if my cat eats basil?
No symptoms are expected from small amounts. If your cat eats a large quantity of basil, the fibrous plant matter may cause mild vomiting or diarrhea, which typically resolves on its own.
How much basil would make a cat sick?
Basil is not toxic to cats at any documented dose, but large ingestions of any fibrous plant material can irritate the digestive tract. Non-toxic does not mean harmless in quantity — keep portions incidental rather than intentional.
Should I call the vet if my cat ate a lot of basil?
Basil is generally considered safe, so eating a small amount does not require a vet call. If your cat consumed a very large amount and is showing persistent vomiting, diarrhea, or signs of distress, contact your veterinarian for guidance.
Same cat verdict
Related plants for cats
Canna Lily
Canna generalis
Canna Lily is a popular tropical perennial known for its vibrant, large flowers and bold foliage. It is considered safe for pets, though its fibrous nature may cause minor digestive discomfort if consumed in large quantities.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Carrot
Daucus carota var. sativa
The carrot is a popular root vegetable often grown in home gardens, known for its edible taproot and feathery foliage. It is considered safe for pets, though large ingestions of fibrous plant material may occasionally cause minor digestive upset.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Celosia
Celosia plumosa
Celosia is a popular ornamental plant known for its vibrant, feathery, or plume-like flower spikes. It is widely considered safe for households with pets, though ingestion of large amounts of fibrous plant material may cause minor digestive discomfort.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Celosia Spicata
Celosia spicata
Celosia spicata is a popular ornamental plant known for its unique, wheat-like flower spikes. It is considered safe for households with pets, though ingestion of large amounts of fibrous plant material may cause minor digestive discomfort.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.