No, basil plants are not toxic to cats.
A culinary herb that belongs to the Lamiaceae family, basil is native to Southeast Asia and Central Africa. The widely used tender plant has many varieties and monikers. This includes great basil, Genovese basil, sweet basil, Thai basil, Mrs. Burns’ Lemon, and Saint Joseph’s Wort.
As a plant, basil is non-toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) states that Ocimum basilicum contains no poisonous substances. In fact, many plants that belong to the basil family such as catnip and catmint can be eaten by feline pets. Therefore, cat owners can grow basil in their homes or backyards.
What to do if your cat accidentally comes into contact with, chews, or eats basil plants: Since there are no toxic principles in basil, nothing bad should happen if your cat chews on its leaves or brushes her body against it. However, consumption should be limited as cats are obligate carnivores.
If the basil plant or its soil was sprayed with harmful chemicals, contact your veterinarian immediately. Watch your cat for poisoning symptoms. Clinical signs include salivation, vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty in breathing, twitching and fitting, and shock or collapse. She may also manifest depression or coma, skin inflammation or swelling, and display changes in her eating, drinking, and urinating.
In summary: Basil plants can be successfully grown in homes with cats. Not only do they smell good, but they offer a sweet, pungent, and slightly spicy flavour to dishes. If you’re already growing basil and other plants, find out more ways on how you can cat-proof them.
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