No, cats cannot eat lavender.
Lavender is a fragrant, purple-coloured flowering plant that belongs to the Lamiaceae family. It is cultivated for ornamental, therapeutic, cosmetic, and culinary purposes. In the culinary world, it is used as a condiment in pastas, dressings, teas, cupcakes, flans, and more.
ASPCA lists the Lavandula angustifolia as toxic to cats, dogs, and even horses. Its toxic principles are linalool and linalyl acetate, which can cause nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. Because of these compounds, it is best for pet parents not to have fresh or dried lavender at home. Or if it is needed, store it in a place your cat does not have access to.
Lavender in its essential oil form is more dangerous than the plant. When exposed to undiluted lavender oil, cats may manifest signs of poisoning as they do not have the capability to process essential oils. Exposure may occur through fur contact, inhalation, or ingestion, and can lead to liver failure, seizures, or even death.
What to do if your cat accidentally eats or is exposed to lavender: Get in touch with your veterinarian immediately. Report your cat’s condition.
Observe her for symptoms of lavender food poisoning: salivation, vomiting, diarrhea, twitching and fitting, difficulty in breathing, shock or collapse, skin inflammation or swelling, depression or coma, and changes in drinking, peeing, and eating.
For essential oil poisoning, watch for these additional signs: excessive drooling, shaking and trembling, unsteadiness, lethargy or dullness, and breathing with her mouth open.
In summary: Though lavender has many benefits for humans, it produces the opposite effect on feline pets. If you own a cat, refrain from having lavender plants, scents, and ingredients in the house.
Browse through our “can cats eat” category to discover which fruits and vegetables you can safely feed your cat.
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