Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus, formerly Rosmarinus officinalis) is a perennial evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean region. It is a member of the Lamiaceae, or mint, family, which includes many other common herbs like basil, oregano, and lavender. The plant is characterized by its needle-like, aromatic leaves and small blue, white, or pink flowers. It is widely cultivated globally as an ornamental garden plant, a culinary herb, and for its essential oils.
According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), rosemary is classified as non-toxic to both cats and dogs. This means the plant is not known to contain any chemical compounds that cause systemic poisoning or life-threatening illness in pets. Therefore, the rosemary plant itself is generally considered safe to have in homes and gardens where pets reside.
While the plant is chemically non-toxic, there are still potential physical risks associated with pets ingesting rosemary. The plant's leaves are stiff, pointed, and somewhat tough. If a dog or cat chews on and swallows a significant amount of the plant material, the sharp needles could potentially cause mild mechanical irritation to the mouth, throat, or gastrointestinal tract. This might result in symptoms like slight drooling, gagging, or mild stomach upset. However, this is a physical reaction to the plant's structure, not a chemical toxicosis.
It is crucial to distinguish between the fresh or dried herb and concentrated rosemary essential oil. The essential oil is a potent, distilled product that contains highly concentrated volatile compounds and phenols. These concentrated substances can be extremely hazardous to pets, especially cats, who lack the specific liver enzymes (glucuronyl transferase) to properly metabolize them. Ingestion of even a small amount of rosemary essential oil can lead to serious symptoms, including vomiting, diarrhea, depression, weakness, and even liver damage. Essential oils should never be administered to or applied on pets without direct veterinary guidance.
When planting rosemary in a garden accessible to pets, consider its placement. While safe, some pets may be attracted to its strong scent and decide to dig around or chew on it. Planting it in a slightly raised bed or a designated container can help deter unwanted attention. Furthermore, ensure any rosemary plants have not been treated with systemic pesticides, herbicides, or chemical fertilizers that could be harmful if ingested by a curious pet. Opting for organic gardening practices provides an additional layer of safety.
