Is Cats Safe?

Is Thyme Safe for Cats?

Safe for cats

Yes — Thyme is considered safe for cats in normal amounts.

Thyme
Photo: Henry Brisse (upload by user:Abalg) · CC BY-SA 3.0 · via Wikimedia Commons

Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) is considered non-toxic to cats according to the ASPCA Animal Poison Control database. It is safe for cats and is not associated with any known toxic principles. If your cat has eaten thyme and you have any concerns, contacting your vet is always a reasonable step.

Scientific nameThymus vulgaris
FamilyLamiaceae
CategoryPlants
Also known asCommon Thyme, Garden Thyme, German Thyme

Other Lamiaceae plants

Plants in the same family (Lamiaceae) are easily confused with Thyme — check each one:

Cat-safe alternatives

Browse all Plants for cats · or check another item.

Frequently asked questions

Can cats have Thyme?

Thyme is considered non-toxic to cats in normal small amounts by ASPCA Animal Poison Control. It's still not a replacement for proper cat food.

What should I do if my cat ate Thyme?

Large amounts of any new food can upset a cat's stomach — watch for vomiting or diarrhea and call your vet if it persists.