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Basil Has Thoughts: On Other Pets : A Brief Review Of The Animal Kingdom Beneath Me
Most pets are errors of judgment.
Dogs mistake enthusiasm for character. Birds confuse noise with presence. Fish are furniture with maintenance demands. Rabbits are destruction in soft packaging. Reptiles require explanations no civilised person should have to give.
In Basil Has On Other Pets, Basil offers a refined and unsentimental review of household pets, the animal kingdom beneath him, and the curious humans who keep lowering domestic standards to accommodate them.
A short, funny cat humor book for animal lovers, pet owners, and readers who enjoy dry humor, elegant contempt, and cats who are clearly right.
Dogs mistake enthusiasm for character. Birds confuse noise with presence. Fish are furniture with maintenance demands. Rabbits are destruction in soft packaging. Reptiles require explanations no civilised person should have to give.
In Basil Has On Other Pets, Basil offers a refined and unsentimental review of household pets, the animal kingdom beneath him, and the curious humans who keep lowering domestic standards to accommodate them.
A short, funny cat humor book for animal lovers, pet owners, and readers who enjoy dry humor, elegant contempt, and cats who are clearly right.
43 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 24, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
July 24, 2026
"Basil is an indoor cat of standarts, pacience, and selective contemp."
A quick, funny, clever, humorous read of how Basil the superior, aristocratic cat thinks a civilized household should be, and his thoughts towards other pets like dogs, birds, guinea pigs, turtles and so many others.
You can't stop smiling at the accuracy and witty of his remarks!
"Fish are furniture that requires feeding."
"Slowness is not dignity. It is delay with better public relations." (on turtles)
"A cat does not choose you. A cat permits you to remain in the same residence."
A quick, funny, clever, humorous read of how Basil the superior, aristocratic cat thinks a civilized household should be, and his thoughts towards other pets like dogs, birds, guinea pigs, turtles and so many others.
You can't stop smiling at the accuracy and witty of his remarks!
"Fish are furniture that requires feeding."
"Slowness is not dignity. It is delay with better public relations." (on turtles)
"A cat does not choose you. A cat permits you to remain in the same residence."
May 5, 2026
This was a fun read told from Basil the cat’s perspective. It’s a clever take on how cats might see other pets, and it had me laughing out loud. It’s a light and entertaining book perfect for animal lovers.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 3, 2026
😽 Basil's Pet Advice . . .
Basil firmly believes that one cat of impeccable standards is more than enough for any household. If you have a cat, you will quickly understand his opinions, having no doubt been fussed at many times in your feline interactions. He spells it all out so there is no chance of a misunderstanding. But humans never seem to know when to stop and now fill the modern residence with "secondary tenants" (which he will review one-by-one in the multiple short chapters) and his experienced scrutiny is now required. Basil views all other pets under a strict standard: A companion worthy of the name must satisfy three non-negotiable criteria: dignity of bearing, economy of movement, and the ability to occupy space without demanding constant acknowledgment. Anything less is ornamental at best, parasitic at worst.
Any additional pet considered as an ideal companion for the household exists beautifully in the periphery while Basil occupies the center. Noise, motion, and dependency are not personality. They are symptoms of inadequate breeding. So Basil begins with discussing dogs. Their tails operate on a separate nervous system, wagging at doorbells, footsteps, the mere concept of breakfast. They present objects already compromised by saliva and wait, with tragic confidence, for admiration. (And he concludes with his standard: Anything that requires applause for simply existing has already forfeited any claim to elegance.)
This is the basic tone of the book, and quite often you may find yourself agreeing with his astute observations. I think this book is a bit harsher in judgment than Book 2. But it reflects Basil's philosophy for perfection. Basil has shared with us his most important observations. Rather than my quoting them all here, it makes more sense for you to keep a copy of the book close by when contemplating the addition of another pet.
Basil firmly believes that one cat of impeccable standards is more than enough for any household. If you have a cat, you will quickly understand his opinions, having no doubt been fussed at many times in your feline interactions. He spells it all out so there is no chance of a misunderstanding. But humans never seem to know when to stop and now fill the modern residence with "secondary tenants" (which he will review one-by-one in the multiple short chapters) and his experienced scrutiny is now required. Basil views all other pets under a strict standard: A companion worthy of the name must satisfy three non-negotiable criteria: dignity of bearing, economy of movement, and the ability to occupy space without demanding constant acknowledgment. Anything less is ornamental at best, parasitic at worst.
Any additional pet considered as an ideal companion for the household exists beautifully in the periphery while Basil occupies the center. Noise, motion, and dependency are not personality. They are symptoms of inadequate breeding. So Basil begins with discussing dogs. Their tails operate on a separate nervous system, wagging at doorbells, footsteps, the mere concept of breakfast. They present objects already compromised by saliva and wait, with tragic confidence, for admiration. (And he concludes with his standard: Anything that requires applause for simply existing has already forfeited any claim to elegance.)
This is the basic tone of the book, and quite often you may find yourself agreeing with his astute observations. I think this book is a bit harsher in judgment than Book 2. But it reflects Basil's philosophy for perfection. Basil has shared with us his most important observations. Rather than my quoting them all here, it makes more sense for you to keep a copy of the book close by when contemplating the addition of another pet.
April 23, 2026
I received this book courtesy of Booksprout for the purpose of a fair and honest review.
I am a dog owner. I love all animals. But I have also lived with cats, three of them over the years, none of them still with me sadly, and I can tell you with complete certainty: cats are superior beings. They know it, we know it, and Basil knows it too.
This tiny book is exactly what it sounds like: a cat’s formal assessment of every other pet in existence. The verdict is not kind. It is, however, extremely fair. What makes it work is the voice. It is dry, precise, and completely unapologetic. The chapter on dogs made me laugh out loud, partly because it’s awesomely written, and partly because I looked at my dog while reading and thought yes, he does do exactly that.
But the best line was this:
“A cat does not choose you. A cat permits you to remain in the same residence. There is dignity in the distinction.”
Anyone who has loved a cat knows this is not a joke. It is an accurate description of the relationship.
Five stars. I didn’t choose this book. I suspect it permitted me to read it.
I am a dog owner. I love all animals. But I have also lived with cats, three of them over the years, none of them still with me sadly, and I can tell you with complete certainty: cats are superior beings. They know it, we know it, and Basil knows it too.
This tiny book is exactly what it sounds like: a cat’s formal assessment of every other pet in existence. The verdict is not kind. It is, however, extremely fair. What makes it work is the voice. It is dry, precise, and completely unapologetic. The chapter on dogs made me laugh out loud, partly because it’s awesomely written, and partly because I looked at my dog while reading and thought yes, he does do exactly that.
But the best line was this:
“A cat does not choose you. A cat permits you to remain in the same residence. There is dignity in the distinction.”
Anyone who has loved a cat knows this is not a joke. It is an accurate description of the relationship.
Five stars. I didn’t choose this book. I suspect it permitted me to read it.
May 25, 2026
Basil Has Thoughts: On Other Pets is exactly the kind of quick, clever read that leaves a lasting impression. Basil’s voice is impeccably dry, aristocratic, and consistently funny, turning a simple premise into a surprisingly memorable comic performance. The book’s refined satire, concise format, and deadpan confidence make it feel tailor-made for cat lovers, gift buyers, and anyone who appreciates humor with bite.
What makes this book especially appealing is how fully it commits to its point of view. Basil never breaks character, and that unwavering feline superiority gives every observation extra charm. The result is a witty, highly giftable read that is short enough to enjoy in one sitting yet sharp enough to inspire immediate rereads—and probably a recommendation or two. For readers who enjoy sarcastic humor, polished satire, and cats who are unmistakably convinced they are right about everything, this is an easy, enthusiastic five-star pick.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
What makes this book especially appealing is how fully it commits to its point of view. Basil never breaks character, and that unwavering feline superiority gives every observation extra charm. The result is a witty, highly giftable read that is short enough to enjoy in one sitting yet sharp enough to inspire immediate rereads—and probably a recommendation or two. For readers who enjoy sarcastic humor, polished satire, and cats who are unmistakably convinced they are right about everything, this is an easy, enthusiastic five-star pick.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 20, 2026
Basil's Art of Judging Everyone Beneath You 🤣
What an absolute riot! I was in stitches from beginning to end!
Basil is gloriously arrogant, outrageously judgmental and utterly convinced that the entire animal kingdom exists several rungs beneath his magnificent feline self.
His observations are wickedly sharp, his contempt deliciously understated, and his standards impossibly high. And the funniest part? I found myself nodding along with some of his verdicts! Particularly his assessment of rabbits. Basil, I couldn't agree more!
What makes this little book so brilliant is its wonderfully consistent voice. Every observation is delivered with the solemn authority of someone who has never entertained the possibility of being wrong.
And really, why should he? He's a cat.
Basil doesn't have opinions. He delivers verdicts. And I thoroughly enjoyed every single one!
Shamla The Reader.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
What an absolute riot! I was in stitches from beginning to end!
Basil is gloriously arrogant, outrageously judgmental and utterly convinced that the entire animal kingdom exists several rungs beneath his magnificent feline self.
His observations are wickedly sharp, his contempt deliciously understated, and his standards impossibly high. And the funniest part? I found myself nodding along with some of his verdicts! Particularly his assessment of rabbits. Basil, I couldn't agree more!
What makes this little book so brilliant is its wonderfully consistent voice. Every observation is delivered with the solemn authority of someone who has never entertained the possibility of being wrong.
And really, why should he? He's a cat.
Basil doesn't have opinions. He delivers verdicts. And I thoroughly enjoyed every single one!
Shamla The Reader.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 5, 2026
What a clever and delightful book! I’ve never owned a cat—or shall I say, a cat has never owned me—but if I did, I would want my cat to be just like Basil.
This book is hilarious and exceptionally well written. Basil’s language prowess is unmatched! I even, dare I say, found myself agreeing with Basil on several points.
I won the ebook through LibraryThing, but I love it so much that I’m adding the print book to my collection. That’s just how much fun it is. Plus, the cover is perfect.
The only downside to the book is that it is quite short. I wish Basil had expanded upon his thoughts with more stories and examples. I was left wishing Basil had shared more. Of course, I believe Basil would say that "silly humans drone on and on, while economy of words ensures a book ends before it overstays its welcome."
Well done, Basil! I will read all of your books!
This book is hilarious and exceptionally well written. Basil’s language prowess is unmatched! I even, dare I say, found myself agreeing with Basil on several points.
I won the ebook through LibraryThing, but I love it so much that I’m adding the print book to my collection. That’s just how much fun it is. Plus, the cover is perfect.
The only downside to the book is that it is quite short. I wish Basil had expanded upon his thoughts with more stories and examples. I was left wishing Basil had shared more. Of course, I believe Basil would say that "silly humans drone on and on, while economy of words ensures a book ends before it overstays its welcome."
Well done, Basil! I will read all of your books!
September 21, 2026
Basil Has Some Thoughts….
In this instance, Basil is sharing his thoughts on Other Pets. The first of three books, this one covers the subject of animals brought into the household from Basil the cats point of view. Each chapter is short and susinct, and covers such animals as dogs, birds, fish, turtles, and other creatures. Each chapter is short and ends with one sentence stating Basil's final pronouncement regarding that point. The book concludes with a couple of lists and rankings, and Basil's Final Verdict. This is a cute and fun read. Basil's attitude and personality come through in a very clear way. For anyone who has ever shared space with a cat, especially a haughty opinionated cat, this will be a delightful read.
I received an ARC copy of this book via Booksprout. This is an unbiased voluntary review and is entirely my own opinion.
In this instance, Basil is sharing his thoughts on Other Pets. The first of three books, this one covers the subject of animals brought into the household from Basil the cats point of view. Each chapter is short and susinct, and covers such animals as dogs, birds, fish, turtles, and other creatures. Each chapter is short and ends with one sentence stating Basil's final pronouncement regarding that point. The book concludes with a couple of lists and rankings, and Basil's Final Verdict. This is a cute and fun read. Basil's attitude and personality come through in a very clear way. For anyone who has ever shared space with a cat, especially a haughty opinionated cat, this will be a delightful read.
I received an ARC copy of this book via Booksprout. This is an unbiased voluntary review and is entirely my own opinion.
May 29, 2026
This is such a cute and funny book! I especially loved the chapter on dogs, which felt both relatable and hilarious.
I also really enjoyed the way the book wrapped everything up, complete with a clear scoring system and hierarchy explaining exactly why cats are superior beings and why humanity should simply do as they demand—or politely request—if we hope to maintain even a semblance of civility. The humor throughout is clever, playful, and perfectly cat-like in its confidence.
Overall, this is a charming and entertaining read for animal lovers, especially anyone who understands that cats truly believe they run the world.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I also really enjoyed the way the book wrapped everything up, complete with a clear scoring system and hierarchy explaining exactly why cats are superior beings and why humanity should simply do as they demand—or politely request—if we hope to maintain even a semblance of civility. The humor throughout is clever, playful, and perfectly cat-like in its confidence.
Overall, this is a charming and entertaining read for animal lovers, especially anyone who understands that cats truly believe they run the world.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 29, 2026
(I was having trouble with amazon posting the review, so I came here before I forget!)
I really enjoyed the sense of humor in the book. I naturally gravitate to the drier/darker senses of humor. Not that this is dark. It is the perfect balance of dry with cynicism that kept me laughing chapter after chapter! Having been around the animals in the book, makes it 10x funnier.
Basil knows all is how I view it now xD if you have a friend with this kind of sense of humor who also enjoys animals but likes a short read, this is the perfect gift of that. Very excited to see what comes next from Basil & his thoughts as ruler & lawmaker of the home!
I really enjoyed the sense of humor in the book. I naturally gravitate to the drier/darker senses of humor. Not that this is dark. It is the perfect balance of dry with cynicism that kept me laughing chapter after chapter! Having been around the animals in the book, makes it 10x funnier.
Basil knows all is how I view it now xD if you have a friend with this kind of sense of humor who also enjoys animals but likes a short read, this is the perfect gift of that. Very excited to see what comes next from Basil & his thoughts as ruler & lawmaker of the home!
May 29, 2026
OMG This is the best book that I have ever read that was written by a cat called Basil!!!
Sorry for the hysterics but I was trying to upset Basil. This is a very basic and unfortunately very short book by a very basic cat. (Sorry Basil, but you are not as exclusive as you think you are)
In reality this is a fun little book that looks at other animals that invade cat’s houses and what Basil thinks about them. I would have liked longer chapters, but a cat’s attention span is usually rather short because they would rather be sleeping.
If you want to read a little bit of fun then check this book out.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Sorry for the hysterics but I was trying to upset Basil. This is a very basic and unfortunately very short book by a very basic cat. (Sorry Basil, but you are not as exclusive as you think you are)
In reality this is a fun little book that looks at other animals that invade cat’s houses and what Basil thinks about them. I would have liked longer chapters, but a cat’s attention span is usually rather short because they would rather be sleeping.
If you want to read a little bit of fun then check this book out.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 8, 2026
I received this book courtesy of Booksprout for the purpose of a fair and honest review.
Overview: Basil is a self-recognized aristocratic cat with high standards and beliefs about sophistication, as well as the requirements to attain it. How do other pets line up with his standards? Let's find out.
Dislikes: Basil reminds me of why I prefer dogs.
Likes: Our ghost-writer stayed in persona when this book was written.
Conclusion: This is a decent book. If you are a cat person, or a fan of sarcastic humor, then this book is for you. Enjoy the read.
Overview: Basil is a self-recognized aristocratic cat with high standards and beliefs about sophistication, as well as the requirements to attain it. How do other pets line up with his standards? Let's find out.
Dislikes: Basil reminds me of why I prefer dogs.
Likes: Our ghost-writer stayed in persona when this book was written.
Conclusion: This is a decent book. If you are a cat person, or a fan of sarcastic humor, then this book is for you. Enjoy the read.
April 14, 2026
This is a fun book. It is Basil the cat, the one who tells the story.
He is quite sarcastic about the pets we humans have at home. He has something to say about fish, birds, rabbits, reptiles, dogs, hamsters, and Guinea pigs, etc.
According to him, only cats are the real perfect pet. He has thoughts about everything and everybody, as we will see in the rest of the book in this series.
Short, funny and interesting.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout, and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
He is quite sarcastic about the pets we humans have at home. He has something to say about fish, birds, rabbits, reptiles, dogs, hamsters, and Guinea pigs, etc.
According to him, only cats are the real perfect pet. He has thoughts about everything and everybody, as we will see in the rest of the book in this series.
Short, funny and interesting.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout, and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 20, 2026
Basil the cat gives his thoughts on the other creatures who may take up his staff's attention. Basil's thoughts are fun and they made me laugh.
I know this was not written by a cat, but I think it sounded like he wrote it. Cats are superior snobs when it comes to other pets. I was entertained by his insults towards each of the different type of pets. My favorite was the dog mistaking enthusiasm for character.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I know this was not written by a cat, but I think it sounded like he wrote it. Cats are superior snobs when it comes to other pets. I was entertained by his insults towards each of the different type of pets. My favorite was the dog mistaking enthusiasm for character.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 22, 2026
Basil certainly has a way with words, but I have found more entertaining ways to spend my time than reading his musings- say, spending time with my own cat. This was a short, amusing read, but nothing to write home about.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 8, 2026
As a fervent catlover, how could I resist this book?
It was a really cute idea, and I could imagine one of my cats writing such a book. The execution, though, was a bit disappointing. There were some cute quips, but overall not impressive. I would not read another if, as hinted, the author writes one.
Howver, it is short and has some entertainment, so it could be an after-dinner-type indulge
It was a really cute idea, and I could imagine one of my cats writing such a book. The execution, though, was a bit disappointing. There were some cute quips, but overall not impressive. I would not read another if, as hinted, the author writes one.
Howver, it is short and has some entertainment, so it could be an after-dinner-type indulge
June 22, 2026
"Noise, motion, and dependency are not personality. They are
symptoms of inadequate breeding."
Basil...you are my new favourite!
As someone who has 2 cats in the house (and many plants) I agree with Basil on many of his observations.
This book was very cute and tongue in cheek and I loved it. :)
symptoms of inadequate breeding."
Basil...you are my new favourite!
As someone who has 2 cats in the house (and many plants) I agree with Basil on many of his observations.
This book was very cute and tongue in cheek and I loved it. :)
June 26, 2026
Short but funny
I loved Basil and his opinions about other creatures. I wish there was more to the book. I'd love a sequel to be about interactions between to cats. Or a monolog about having to deal with humans and all the trouble they cause Basil.
Beef up the book more and it would be great. Love the cover.
I loved Basil and his opinions about other creatures. I wish there was more to the book. I'd love a sequel to be about interactions between to cats. Or a monolog about having to deal with humans and all the trouble they cause Basil.
Beef up the book more and it would be great. Love the cover.
June 28, 2026
Basil is a cat who has distinct opinions about how the world should be structured, shares his opinions freely. In his opinion the ideal home has one non-human resident, a cat. In this book his targets are other pets a human owner might ask their cat to share space and affection with.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 21, 2026
This is a Funny fun Animal Short Fiction, and this is part of this Basil series. I found this a fun cute funny story. This is a really short book. There is not a lot to this book, but I think this story being told by a cat is so much fun. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.
July 22, 2026
loved it !! a great start for this series !! love, love, love Basil !!!! what a judgy cat !!! this was so funny !!! it's wonderful... from the cat's perspective ... his thoughts on dogs, fish, birds and others... so funny !!!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 29, 2026
I think this book is perfect as a gift for anyone with a new (adopted) cat. Or for your friend who has a lot of animals. It's not a book to read as a novel. But great for reading 1-2 stories a day. I had to give extra bonus points for chapter 16!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 6, 2026
"A cat does not choose you. A cat permits you to remain in the same residence." 👍🎯💯😂🤣
I can just picture Basil writing this book while casting judgmental glances and side eyes 👀
I was actually surprised, he didn’t try to pick a fight with the dog. 😂.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I can just picture Basil writing this book while casting judgmental glances and side eyes 👀
I was actually surprised, he didn’t try to pick a fight with the dog. 😂.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 20, 2026
The premise of this book is really cute. However, the execution not so much. While cats have a reputation for being aloof and standoffish, this representation takes that to whole other level. I found the titular character to be condescending in the extreme and his comments to be mean and without wit. Fortunately the book is short.
August 21, 2026
Seriously addictive. I am just waiting to buy physical copies for all my cat-people for Christmas! I am also actively seeking Basil's other volumes. A MUST READ gor anyone whomhas ever given voice to the thoughts in their cat's head.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 28, 2026
This is book 1 of Basil Has Thoughts. It is a humorous point of view from Basil the cat. His everyday thoughts and ideas. It will leave you smiling.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 11, 2026
Book out of my comfort zone, but I was very surprised and I really enjoyed it. Had a good laugh! I would definilty recommend.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 20, 2026
Basil is hilarious. This story had me laughing so hard. Basil doesn't like anyone else and let's us know why. This was great.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 23, 2026
Basil the cat shares his elegant contempt on dogs, birds, fish, hamsters, rabbits, reptiles, and birds with amusing comments that made me laugh. All cats know they’re in charge & Basil is no different. I received this quick read as an ARC from Book Sprout & am leaving an honest review.
May 22, 2026
As a cat mom, this book had me laughing out loud. Basil's thoughts are comical, sarcastic, and sharp in a way that only a cat's can be. I cannot wait to hear how he feels about house guests!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews