Is rosemary toxic to dogs or cats?
Safe as a plant and a seasoning in normal amounts.
Safe for cats; the strong scent usually keeps them away.
Rosemary is pet-safe as grown and as sprinkled, and it even appears in some pet foods as a natural preservative. Concentrated rosemary essential oil is a different product and should be kept away, as with all essential oils. The plant itself is a fine garden citizen.
Signs to watch for
- Very large amounts: stomach upset
Sources: ASPCA toxic and non-toxic plant list, Pet Poison Helpline. Verdicts are conservative by design: where evidence is thin we choose the stricter rating.
This is general educational information, not veterinary advice. When in doubt about your own pet, ask your veterinarian.
If your pet just ate something risky, act now: call your vet, ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435, or Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 (consultation fees may apply).