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Flowers & Plants

Can cats eat lavender?

Toxic

Lavender safety for cats

Lavender is toxic to cats. Ingestion can cause nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite.

Toxic principle: linalool and linalyl acetate

Watch for

  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • loss of appetite

Sources

Reviewed 2026-07-28

Frequently asked questions

Can cats eat lavender?

Lavender is toxic to cats. Ingestion can cause nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite.

What should I do if my cat ate lavender?

Contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 immediately. Do not wait for symptoms to appear before calling.

What symptoms should I watch for with lavender and cats?

nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite. If you notice any of these, contact your veterinarian.

This page is for informational purposes only and is not veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian about your pet's diet and health.

Read our methodology for how every cat food verdict is sourced and reviewed.