Is lavender toxic to dogs or cats?
The plant is mild; concentrated lavender oil is the real risk.
Cats are more sensitive, especially to the essential oil.
A few chewed lavender sprigs are a mild event, but concentrated lavender essential oil, in diffusers, sprays, or spilled bottles, is a different story, particularly for cats, who lack the liver enzymes to clear it. Keep oils sealed and diffuse in ventilated spaces cats can leave. Call if you see drooling or wobbliness after oil exposure.
Signs to watch for
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Reduced appetite
- Oil exposure: drooling, wobbliness
Sources: ASPCA toxic and non-toxic plant list, Pet Poison Helpline. Verdicts are conservative by design: where evidence is thin we choose the stricter rating.
This is general educational information, not veterinary advice. When in doubt about your own pet, ask your veterinarian.
If your pet just ate something risky, act now: call your vet, ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435, or Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 (consultation fees may apply).