Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) is a fragrant, woody herb native to the Mediterranean region. It is widely cultivated for culinary, medicinal, and ornamental purposes. Known for its needle-like leaves and piney aroma, rosemary is a popular ingredient in cooking, aromatherapy, and garden landscaping. While it offers numerous benefits for humans, pet owners often wonder whether it poses risks to cats and dogs.
Rosemary contains several bioactive compounds, including volatile oils like camphor, cineole, and pinene, which contribute to its scent and flavor. These compounds also have antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. However, some of these substances, particularly in concentrated forms (e.g., essential oils), can be irritating or toxic to pets if ingested or applied improperly.
Cats are more sensitive to essential oils and plant compounds due to their limited ability to metabolize certain chemicals. While small amounts of fresh or dried rosemary are generally not toxic to cats, excessive ingestion may cause gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea. Concentrated rosemary oil, however, can be dangerous and may lead to symptoms like drooling, lethargy, or even liver damage in severe cases.
Dogs tolerate rosemary better than cats, and small quantities of the herb are often considered safe. In fact, rosemary extract is sometimes used in commercial dog foods as a natural preservative. However, large amounts can still cause digestive issues, and concentrated oils should be avoided. Dogs with epilepsy or seizures should steer clear of rosemary, as camphor and other compounds may exacerbate neurological conditions.
To minimize risks, avoid using rosemary essential oils or heavily concentrated forms near pets. If growing rosemary in a garden, ensure it is placed where pets cannot easily chew on large quantities. When using rosemary in cooking, small amounts are unlikely to harm dogs, but it’s best to avoid feeding it to cats. Always monitor pets for unusual behavior after exposure.
If a pet ingests too much rosemary or its essential oil, watch for symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, excessive drooling, or weakness. In severe cases, tremors or seizures may occur. If these signs appear, contact a veterinarian immediately. Prompt action can prevent complications, especially in cases of essential oil exposure.
For pet owners seeking safer alternatives, consider planting catnip (Nepeta cataria) for cats or parsley (Petroselinum crispum) for dogs. These herbs are non-toxic and can provide similar aromatic or culinary benefits without the risks associated with rosemary.
