As cat owners, we often wonder which human food and herbs are safe for our feline companions. Basil, a popular herb used in many dishes, is one such plant that many pet owners have in their kitchen or garden. Basil is generally safe for cats in small amounts and as with any food outside of a cat’s natural diet, there are some considerations to keep in mind.
Is It Safe for Cats?
Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is non-toxic to cats, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). This means that if your cat nibbles on a basil leaf, there is no immediate danger. Unlike some plants that are highly toxic to cats—such as lilies, onions, and garlic—basil does not contain harmful compounds that could cause severe poisoning.
“Although basil is non-toxic, it doesn’t mean it should become a regular part of your cat’s diet. Cats are obligate carnivores, which means their primary source of nutrition should come from animal-based protein,” said Dr. William Jones in “Herbs Safe for Cats” published in the Paws and Claws website.
“ While they might occasionally show curiosity about plants, they don’t derive significant nutrients from them.” Dr. Jones added.
Potential Benefits
Although cats do not need herbs in their diet, basil does contain some beneficial compounds. According to Dr. Jones, these are the benefits of basil:
1. Antioxidants: Basil is rich in antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress in the body. These compounds may provide some minor health benefits by reducing inflammation and supporting immune function.
2. Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Basil has natural anti-inflammatory properties that may help with mild pain or swelling. While this is more relevant to humans, it could offer some relief to cats with minor discomfort.
3. Antibacterial and Antiviral Effects: Some studies suggest that basil has antimicrobial properties, which might help fight infections. However, there is no strong evidence that this benefits cats directly.
Despite these potential advantages, the amounts of basil a cat would consume are likely too small to provide any real health benefits.
Are There Any Side Effects?
Even though basil is not toxic to cats, there are still some possible side effects to be aware of:
1. Digestive Upset – If a cat eats too much basil, it might experience mild stomach issues such as vomiting, diarrhea, or gas. This is because their digestive system is not designed to process large amounts of plant matter.
2. Allergic Reactions – While rare, some cats may have an allergic reaction to basil. Signs of an allergy could include itching, swelling, or respiratory distress. If you notice these symptoms after your cat eats basil, consult a veterinarian immediately.
3. Essential Oils in Basil – Some varieties of basil contain essential oils that, in high concentrations, could be irritating to cats. While fresh basil leaves contain only small amounts, basil essential oil is much more potent and should never be given to cats. Essential oils can be toxic to felines because their livers are not efficient at processing certain compounds.
How Much Basil Can Cats Eat?
If your cat occasionally nibbles on a basil leaf, there is no need to worry. However, basil should only be given in moderation. A small amount—such as a tiny leaf or a sprinkle of chopped basil on their food—is generally safe.
The following guidelines, as suggested by Dr. Jones, should be kept in mind when giving basil to your cats:
1. Fresh basil is preferable. Dried basil is more concentrated and could cause digestive upset in large amounts. Fresh leaves are gentler on a cat’s stomach.
2. Monitor your cat’s reaction. If it is their first time eating basil, observe for any adverse effects before giving them more.
3. Do not force-feed basil. If your cat shows no interest in basil, there is no reason to try to include it in their diet.
Should You Give Basil to Your Cat?
There is no real need to include basil in a cat’s diet, as it does not provide essential nutrients for them. And if your cat occasionally nibbles on basil, it is generally harmless. Just be sure to watch for any signs of stomach upset or allergies.
If you are looking for ways to enhance your cat’s diet with plant-based foods, consider cat-safe options like cat grass or catnip, which are specifically suited to feline digestion.
About the Author: Niko Gabriel Salgado is a graduate of consular and diplomatic affairs from De La Salle College of Saint Benilde, and worked at the House of Representatives. He is now an entrepreneur and a volunteer of the animal welfare group Save Animals of Love and Light- Save ALL.