Can cats eat basil?
ASPCA and Cats Protection list basil as non-toxic to cats. Herbs are only a rare nibble for cats, though, and even non-toxic plants can upset the stomach (Cats Protection).
How to serve it: fresh and plain, just a leaf
Good to know: Pesto is a different story: it usually contains garlic, which is toxic to cats (Merck).
Sources
- ASPCA Toxic and Non-toxic Plants – Basil (non-toxic to dogs and cats)
- Cats Protection – Cat-safe plants guide, „Cats, herbs and hedging“ (basil: „Safe for cats“)
- Cats Protection – Plants poisonous to cats (basil among herbs safe to keep around cats)
- Merck Veterinary Manual – Garlic and Onion (Allium spp) Toxicosis in Animals
Last checked: October 2026