Is Lavender Poisonous to Cats?

If you’re a fan of lavender, whether it’s in candles, essential oils, or potted plants, you’re definitely not alone. Its calming scent and soft purple hue make it a favourite in many homes. But if you share your space with a curious cat, you might’ve stopped to wonder: is lavender poisonous to cats? Before you bring home a new plant or start diffusing that relaxing oil, it’s important to know how lavender could affect your furry friend. Here’s what every pet parent should know.

Is Lavender Poisonous to Cats in Any Form?

Lavender contains two compounds: linalool and linalyl acetate. These are totally fine for humans but toxic to cats. The tricky part is that cats don’t have the liver enzymes needed to break these compounds down. So, whether it’s a fresh plant or a fancy essential oil diffuser, lavender can be dangerous.

If your cat gets too close or takes a nibble, they might experience drooling, nausea, vomiting, or trouble breathing. And while it’s rare for lavender exposure to be fatal, it’s still something you shouldn’t mess around with.

Lavender Plants and Cats: Are They a Bad Mix?

Cats are naturally curious (especially when it comes to something that smells good), so a potted lavender plant on the windowsill can quickly become a hazard. Even if your cat just brushes against the leaves and licks their fur later, they might absorb those toxic oils.

That said, the plant itself is mildly toxic compared to concentrated products, such as essential oils. If your cat only takes a small bite, they’ll probably just have a mild tummy upset — but it’s always better to be safe and keep your lavender plants well out of reach.

Is Lavender Essential Oil Safe for Cats?

This is where things get serious. Lavender essential oil is highly concentrated and far more dangerous than the plant version. It can be absorbed through the skin, inhaled, or ingested, and all three routes can lead to toxic buildup in your cat’s system.

Symptoms of essential oil poisoning include drooling, vomiting, wobbliness, lethargy, tremors, and even liver failure. So if you’re using a diffuser in your home, make sure your cat isn’t trapped in the room or anywhere nearby. Better yet, skip lavender essential oil altogether and stick with cat-safe alternatives.

Is Lavender Dangerous for Cats Who Just Smell It?

Even if your cat isn’t eating lavender, they might still be affected by just smelling it. Diffused oils in the air can irritate their sensitive respiratory systems. Is lavender dangerous for cats in that way? It can be. Watch for signs like sneezing, coughing, watery eyes, or hiding. If your cat starts acting weird around your diffuser, it’s time to unplug it and air out the room.

Is Lavender Safe for Cats If It's Dried?

Dried lavender is still lavender. The compounds that make it toxic don’t disappear just because the plant isn’t fresh anymore. Is lavender safe for cats when it’s dried and used in sachets or potpourri? Not really.

Even though the risk is lower, your cat could chew on the dried flowers or inhale the dust, leading to irritation or minor poisoning. If you love the scent, keep sachets in a drawer or closet that your cat can’t access.

Is Lavender Toxic to Dogs, Too?

Okay, dog lovers, you’re probably wondering if this applies to your pup too. Is lavender toxic to dogs? Technically, yes — but dogs aren’t as sensitive as cats. They can tolerate small amounts of lavender much better, though essential oils should still be used with caution. If your dog gets into a lavender plant or product, they may experience mild stomach upset. But unless they consume a large amount or get into essential oils, it’s not usually a medical emergency.

Is Lavender Poisonous to Dogs in Plant Form?

As we mentioned earlier, dogs are more tolerant of lavender than cats, but they’re not completely immune. Is lavender poisonous to dogs in its plant form? Only mildly. If your dog eats a lot of it, they could have vomiting or diarrhea, but it’s not life-threatening unless essential oils are involved. Still, it’s best to keep all pets away from lavender, especially if you’re not 100% sure how much they’ve had.

Safer Alternatives to Lavender for Cat-Loving Homes

You don’t have to give up aromatherapy or beautiful plants just because you’ve got a cat. Here are a few cat-friendly options you can try instead:

• Catnip: it’s literally made for them.

• Valerian root: calming for both cats and humans.

• Chamomile (in small doses): soothing, but check with your vet.

• Feliway diffusers mimic calming feline pheromones.

All of these are safe bets that won’t have your cat drooling or hiding under the bed.

What to Do If Your Cat Ate Lavender

If you suspect your cat has ingested lavender, especially in oil form, call your vet immediately. Don’t wait for symptoms of lavender poisoning to show up. The sooner you act, the better your cat’s chances of avoiding serious issues.

You can also contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (1-888-426-4435) or Pet Poison Helpline (1-800-213-6680) for help.

Your vet might recommend activated charcoal, IV fluids, or monitoring liver enzymes depending on the situation. The important thing is to never try to treat lavender poisoning at home unless directed by a professional.

Bouquets and Pets

At La Belle Fleur, your pet’s safety matters just as much as the beauty of your bouquet. While lavender is a popular choice for its look and smell, we always help customers at our flower shop in Vaughan choose flowers that are both stunning and safe for pets when needed. Whether you're picking up a centrepiece or planning a gift, let us know if you’ve got a furry friend at home. We’ll make sure your arrangement is safe for everyone in the family.

Final Thoughts About Cat-Safe Flowers

So, is lavender safe for cats? No, especially in essential oil form. From fresh plants to diffusers, lavender can cause a range of issues for your feline friend, from mild tummy troubles to serious toxicity. And while dogs are slightly more resilient, it’s better to play it safe and avoid it around all pets.

Stick with cat-safe alternatives and always check with your vet before introducing new scents or plants into your home. Your cat might not say it out loud, but they’ll definitely thank you with extra snuggles.

Looking for pet-safe blooms? At La Belle Fleur, we’ve got gorgeous luxury flower arrangements that are cat-friendly too, including orchids, tulips, roses, sunflowers, and lilies. Shop online for flowers with same-day delivery that are both safe and stunning.

FAQs About Lavender and Cats

Can cats develop a lavender allergy over time?

Yes, some cats may develop sensitivities or allergic reactions with repeated exposure to lavender. This can show up as skin irritation, sneezing, or behavioural changes.

What should I do if my cat walks through a lavender-scented room?

Open the windows, air out the space, and gently wipe your cat’s paws with a damp cloth. Monitor them for any signs of discomfort or respiratory irritation.

Are lavender-infused cleaning products safe to use around cats?

Not really. Even trace amounts of lavender in surface sprays or wipes can irritate your cat’s skin or get ingested during grooming. Opt for pet-safe, unscented cleaning products instead.

Can I grow lavender in my garden if I have outdoor cats?

It’s risky. Outdoor cats might brush against the plant or chew on it. If your cat roams outside, consider skipping lavender in your landscaping or planting it in areas they can’t access.

Is it okay to use lavender-scented laundry detergent on cat bedding?

Nope. Cats sleep close to their bedding and groom themselves often, so any lavender residue from detergents could be absorbed or ingested. Stick with fragrance-free laundry products.