Is Basil Safe for Cats?

Ocimum basilicum

Basil is on the non-toxic list for cats and dogs. A cat that nibbles a supermarket basil plant is not in danger.

The caveat is the pot: supermarket basil is grown densely in compost that often carries fertiliser, and the plant is usually dead within a fortnight, which is when it goes mouldy.

What to watch for in the UK

• A common windowsill herb pot.
• If your cat destroys it, basil is one of the cheapest plants to replace.
• Check for pest-control pellets in the compost of supermarket herbs.
• Essential basil oil is a different matter and should be kept away from cats.

If your cat has already chewed it

1. Nothing to do.
2. If the cat has eaten compost or slow-release fertiliser, phone your vet.

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).