Can guinea pigs eat basil?
PDSA and the Royal Veterinary College list basil among herbs for guinea pigs. The Royal Veterinary College also counts it among high-calcium foods not to overfeed.
How to serve it: a few leaves, rotated with other greens (NC State)
Good to know: NC State rates basil low in calcium and moderate in oxalate, so we err on the side of caution.
Questions
Can guinea pigs eat basil every day?
No, only now and then and in small amounts.
Can rabbits eat basil?
Yes, as fresh food. The RSPCA lists basil among the herbs to feed daily, and RWAF names it too.
Sources
- PDSA – Safe veg and greens for guinea pigs (graphic)
- Royal Veterinary College – Feeding your guinea pig (2020)
- NC State Veterinary Hospital – Caring for Your Pet Guinea Pig
- Woodgreen Pets Charity – Feeding your guinea pigs
- Blue Cross – How to make a guinea pig forage box
Last checked: October 2026