Is Lavender Safe for Cats? That's a Hard No

Why is lavender toxic for cats? Here's how to keep your cat safe. LindaRaymondPhotography / Getty Images

Lavender is a popular plant cherished for its calming properties and fragrant scent, but for cat lovers, the big question remains: Is lavender safe for cats?

While humans enjoy lavender in oils, candles, and aromatherapy products, our feline companions can have very different (and dangerous) reactions.

Lavender Toxicity in Cats

The short answer is: Yes, lavender is toxic to cats.

The plant contains compounds called linalool and linalyl acetate, which cats cannot effectively metabolize due to the unique structure of their livers. This can lead to lavender toxicity, even from small amounts of exposure, especially with lavender essential oil.

Lavender essential oil — Your favorite spa accessory shouldn't go anywhere near your cat.
Anastasiia Krivenok / Getty Images

Cats exposed to lavender oil — whether through scent diffusers, candles or topical products applied to the cat's coat — may experience a range of symptoms. Common signs of lavender poisoning include:

Gastrointestinal upset (vomiting, drooling, loss of appetite)
Difficulty breathing
Mouth irritation or burns
Lethargy or uncoordinated movement
In severe cases, liver damage or death

Lavender Oil vs. Lavender Plants

Woman smelling lavender on the field — Fresh lavender isn't safer than lavender oil. Ekaterina Vasileva-Bagler / Getty Images

While lavender essential oils are the most dangerous due to their highly concentrated form, even dried lavender or fresh lavender plants can be risky if ingested.

Lavender exposure through licking or chewing can allow toxins to enter the bloodstream, especially if your cat grooms itself after coming in contact with the plant.

Lavender candles and sprays may also pose a risk if the scent particles settle on surfaces that cats later lick. The use of carrier oil in diluted products may lessen the risk, but it does not eliminate it.

How to Protect Your Cat

To keep your pets safe, cat owners and pet owners in general should:

Keep lavender oil, plants and candles out of your cat’s reach
Avoid using essential oils around areas your cat frequents
Watch for symptoms of lavender poisoning, especially after any lavender exposure
Contact a veterinarian immediately if your cat shows any signs of poisoning
Avoid relying on home remedies without proper veterinary care

If you want to grow lavender, ensure it’s kept in a location inaccessible to pets. Products labeled "lavender safe for cats" should still be approached with caution, as marketing terms can be misleading. Dealing with a cat's lavender poisoning is not something you want to risk.

Just Say No

Despite its benefits for humans, lavender is not safe for cats. Both the plant and its derivatives, such as lavender essential oil, carry potential risks for your cat’s health.

If you're concerned about your cat’s exposure to lavender or essential oils, consult your veterinarian for guidance. When in doubt, it’s better to avoid using lavender products entirely to ensure your feline companions remain healthy and safe.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.