I’m often asked if basil is bad for cats. The simple answer is no, basil is not bad for cats. In fact, there are many benefits to giving your cat basil.
If you have a cat, you may be wondering if basil is safe for them. The answer is yes and no. While basil is not toxic to cats, it can cause gastrointestinal upset if they eat too much of it.
So, if you grow basil in your home or have it in your kitchen, make sure to keep it out of reach of your feline friend.
What Does Basil Do to Cats?
There are a lot of conflicting reports about what, if any, effect basil has on cats. Some sources say that it is toxic to them, while others claim that it is perfectly safe. The truth probably lies somewhere in the middle – basil may not be outright poisonous to cats, but it could certainly have some adverse effects if they consume too much of it.
For example, basil contains eugenol, a compound which can act as an anticoagulant. This means that if a cat ate a large amount of basil, their blood might not clot properly and they could experience excessive bleeding. Eugenol can also irritate the gastrointestinal tract, causing nausea and vomiting.
Additionally, basil essential oils contain compounds like methyl eugenol and limonene which can be toxic to cats if ingested in large quantities. These substances can cause liver damage and neurological problems like seizures.
So while eating the odd leaf or two of basil probably won’t hurt your kitty, it’s best to err on the side of caution and keep them away from this herb altogether.
Is Basil Toxic to Pets?
No, basil is not toxic to pets. In fact, it is often used as a natural remedy for various ailments in both dogs and cats. Some pet owners use basil to help soothe their pet’s stomach or skin issues.
Is Basil Like Catnip for Cats?
Basil is in the mint family, so it has a similar smell to other members of that group like peppermint, spearmint, and catnip. There is some evidence that basil may have psychoactive effects on cats similar to those of catnip. However, there is no scientific consensus on this and more research needs to be done to confirm any potential effects.
Is Basil Okay for Cats And Dogs?
Yes, basil is fine for cats and dogs. In fact, it can be a great addition to their diet! Basil is rich in antioxidants and vitamins A, C, and K. It also has anti-inflammatory properties.
All of these benefits make basil a great herb for both cats and dogs.
Is Parsley Toxic to Cats
While parsley is not toxic to cats, it can be harmful if they eat too much of it. Parsley contains a compound called apiol which can cause liver damage in cats. It is important to keep an eye on your cat if they are eating parsley and make sure they don’t eat too much of it.
If you think your cat has eaten too much parsley, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Is Rosemary Poisonous to Cats
If you’re a cat owner, you’ve probably wondered at some point if certain plants are poisonous to your feline friend. After all, cats are known for their love of chewing on plants. While rosemary is not poisonous to cats, it can cause stomach upset if they eat too much of it.
So it’s best to keep this herb out of reach of your kitty.
Is Cilantro Toxic to Cats
Cilantro is a popular herb that is used in many dishes, but did you know that it can be toxic to cats? While the herb is not poisonous, it can cause gastrointestinal upset and vomiting. If your cat ingests cilantro, they may experience diarrhea, dehydration, and loss of appetite.
In severe cases, cilantro toxicity can lead to liver damage. If you suspect your cat has eaten cilantro, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Conclusion
No, basil is not bad for cats. In fact, it may even be good for them! A study in the Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition found that when cats were given a supplement of basil oil, they had lower levels of stress hormones and higher levels of good cholesterol.
So if your cat is feeling stressed out, a little basil might just be the ticket!