Can pets eat Pesto?

Pesto is an Italian sauce made by blending basil, pine nuts, cheese, and olive oil, commonly tossed with pasta or spread on sandwiches. It is high in fat and salt and often contains alliums such as onion or garlic, which may be toxic to pets. Do not feed pesto; even small amounts may expose pets to allium toxicity and rich fats. Pesto is usually made with basil, olive oil, cheese, and nuts like pine nuts or walnuts. Many recipes include garlic or onion. Store-bought pesto may add preservatives. It is used on pasta, sandwiches, and pizza. A small smear can contain a lot of fat and salt. Keep pesto jars and coated utensils out of reach. There are red or sun-dried tomato pestos and dairy-free versions. Many still use garlic or high amounts of oil. A small spoonful can contain concentrated ingredients. Pesto is often served at room temperature and can sit out during meals. Pesto is sometimes stirred into soups or mixed into dips.

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Pesto

By PFA Editorial TeamJanuary 12, 2026

Description

Pesto is an Italian sauce made by blending basil, pine nuts, cheese, and olive oil, commonly tossed with pasta or spread on sandwiches. It is high in fat and salt and often contains alliums such as onion or garlic, which may be toxic to pets. Do not feed pesto; even small amounts may expose pets to allium toxicity and rich fats.

Pesto is usually made with basil, olive oil, cheese, and nuts like pine nuts or walnuts. Many recipes include garlic or onion. Store-bought pesto may add preservatives.

It is used on pasta, sandwiches, and pizza. A small smear can contain a lot of fat and salt. Keep pesto jars and coated utensils out of reach.

There are red or sun-dried tomato pestos and dairy-free versions. Many still use garlic or high amounts of oil. A small spoonful can contain concentrated ingredients.

Pesto is often served at room temperature and can sit out during meals.

Pesto is sometimes stirred into soups or mixed into dips.

Disclaimer: The content on this site is for informational purposes only and does not constitute veterinary advice. Always consult with a qualified veterinarian regarding your pet's diet and health. If you suspect your pet has ingested something toxic, contact your vet or a poison control center. Read full medical disclaimer.