Yes, lavender plants are toxic to cats.
Belonging to the mint family Lamiaceae, the lavender plant is popular for its fragrant, purple-coloured flowers. This plant has many purposes ranging from culinary and cosmetic to therapeutic and ornamental.
The most widely cultivated species of the lavender is called Lavandula angustifolia. It is also known as common lavender and English lavender. According to ASPCA, the lavender plant is toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. The linalool and linalyl acetate found in it can cause digestive upset such as nausea, vomiting, and decrease in appetite. However, this depends on how sensitive your cat’s stomach is, and how much she ate.
What to do if your cat accidentally comes into contact with, chews, or eats lavender plants: Your cat may display mild to moderate symptoms. Contact your veterinarian immediately even if your cat does not exhibit any signs.
In addition, never expose your cat to lavender essential oil or potpourri. This concentrated form can be dangerous for cats since they do not have the ability to digest them. Even contact through the skin or respiratory system can lead to adverse effects. This includes chemical burns, liver failure, seizures, or even death.
For lavender essential oil poisoning, watch for these signs: salivation, vomiting, difficulty in breathing, incoordination, lethargy, weakness, tremors, pawing at the face and mouth, and skin inflammation or swelling.
In summary: Because of its calming scent, lavender is usually present in herbal remedies, skincare items, and wellness treatments. But because of its unsafe compounds, do not expose your cat to lavender plants or feed her anything infused with lavender oil.
If you’re a cat owner, opt for feline-safe houseplants such as spider plants or air plants. Before bringing home a new plant or deciding to grow one in your backyard, check these lists from ASPCA, Pet Poison Helpline, and PetMD to keep your pets safe.
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