Can cats eat basil?
Quick verdict
In moderation
Recommended amount
A tiny amount of chopped basil occasionally.
Why
A tiny amount of basil is fine for cats but not needed.
Can cats eat basil, and why?
A tiny amount of basil is fine for cats but not needed. Only offer a small pinch; cats do not need herbs.
Cats are obligate carnivores: they must get most of their nutrition from meat and need nutrients such as taurine that only animal products provide. They lack some enzymes for processing plants and carbohydrates, so fruit and veg offer little benefit and can upset their stomach; many cats are also lactose intolerant.
How to feed basil to cats
- •How much: A tiny amount of chopped basil occasionally.
- •How often: An occasional treat, not a daily food. Any treat should be occasional and tiny — no more than about 10% of daily calories — and never replace a balanced cat food.
- •Young pets: Kittens have sensitive digestion and high growth needs, so introduce new foods cautiously and ask your vet.
- •Preparation: Always wash fresh produce, remove any pips, stones, seeds, peel or tough skin where relevant, and serve it plain — never with salt, sugar, oil, butter or seasoning.
More foods cats might eat
Make treat time better
Handy kit for feeding cats well:
Frequently asked questions
Can cats eat basil?
In moderation. A tiny amount of basil is fine for cats but not needed.
How much basil can a cat have?
A tiny amount of chopped basil occasionally.
Can cats eat basil every day?
It’s best as an occasional treat rather than a daily food. Any treat should be occasional and tiny — no more than about 10% of daily calories — and never replace a balanced cat food.
Can kittens eat basil?
Kittens have sensitive digestion and high growth needs, so introduce new foods cautiously and ask your vet.
Check basil for another pet