Is Rosemary Toxic to Dogs and Cats? (2026)

No treatment is needed for fresh or dried rosemary in ordinary amounts. Follow label directions specifically for any rosemary-oil-based flea product, since concentrated essential oils are a separate risk category from the plant itself.

Rosemary is not known to contain toxic compounds harmful to dogs, cats, or horses.

Rosemary is confirmed non-toxic to dogs and cats by the ASPCA, and is safe in the ordinary culinary amounts typically found in a kitchen garden. The woody stems and needle-like leaves are tough enough that most pets lose interest after one bite. Concentrated rosemary essential oil — sometimes included in natural flea and tick products — is a different, far more potent substance than the fresh herb and carries its own separate handling guidance.

Scientific name

Salvia rosmarinus

Family

Lamiaceae

Also known as

Rosemary

Typically found

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