Can Cats eat Basil?


Can cats eat basil? Let’s see together what are the effects of this aromatic plant on our four-legged friends.

Basil is one of the most used aromatic plants in our homes. Its taste and smell makes any meal such as tomato sauce or the much-loved pizza magnificent.

However, those who live with a cat may wonder if this plant could be dangerous or not for the cat. Let’s find out if the cat can eat basil.


Can cats eat basil?

Basil is an aromatic plant that brings many benefits to humans, is the same also true for our beloved felines?

Although there are many foods that can cause harm to our furry friend and various plants that are toxic to the cat, basil thankfully does not belong to these categories.

This aromatic plant is not poisonous to our four-legged friend, so if your cat accidentally eats a little basil it won’t risk any intoxication.

Is basil beneficial for cats?

While basil isn’t a poisonous plant for your cat, it isn’t beneficial either. Specifically, basil has no nutritional value that can be useful to the cat’s body.

We know that felines are carnivorous animals and therefore their diet consists mainly in the intake of animal proteins.

Furthermore, cats are not very fond of the smell and taste of basil. Why then do they approach this plant? The only reason felines might get close to the basil plant is that they are infinitely curious.

What happens if the cat eats basil?

As previously mentioned, basil is not beneficial for the cat, but neither is it risky.

However, if your cat unintentionally eats basil, he may have the following symptoms:

  • Vomiting in cats
  • Diarrhea in cats

Also, even if rarely, the feline could have a rash, especially if its body comes into contact with the basil plant.

In the event that your cat exhibits any of these symptoms it is necessary to contact the veterinarian. Remember that the cat that ate basil does not always show symptoms, in this case there is no need to worry.


Cat BreedsCat Food and Nutrition
Tips for Cat OwnersCat Training
Cat BehaviorKittens
Cat HealthCat Grooming
Cat AdoptionTravel with Cat
Holiday Season- Cat

Leave a Comment