Is Lavender Toxic to Cats and Dogs?
Yes, the lavender plant is toxic to cats and dogs. Ingestion of the plant can cause unpleasant symptoms for pets because it contains compounds that are not safe for them to eat. While many people enjoy the plant’s appearance and scent, pet safety requires keeping the plant and animal separate.
The primary concern is a pet consuming the plant material itself. The concentration of toxic compounds can vary, but the entire plant is considered unsafe. It is best to prevent pets from chewing on or eating any part of a lavender plant.
Lavender: what the ASPCA database lists
| ASPCA entry | Lavender |
|---|---|
| Other common names | Common Lavender, English Lavender |
| Scientific name | Lavendula angustifolia |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Toxic to | Toxic to Dogs, Toxic to Cats, Toxic to Horses |
| Non-toxic to | None listed |
| Toxic principles | Linlool, linalyl acetate |
| Clinical signs listed | Nausea, vomiting (not in horses), inappetant |
What the ASPCA says about lavender
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) lists lavender, or Lavendula angustifolia, as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. This plant is a member of the Lamiaceae family and is also known by the common names English Lavender and Common Lavender.
The toxicity comes from specific compounds within the plant. The ASPCA identifies these toxic principles as linalool and linalyl acetate. If a pet eats the plant, these substances can lead to several clinical signs, which are physical symptoms of poisoning. For cats and dogs, these signs include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Inappetence (loss of appetite)
What this means in a home with pets
Having a lavender plant means you must take precautions to protect your pets. A dog or cat that eats lavender leaves, stems, or flowers can experience gastrointestinal distress. The severity of the reaction often depends on the individual animal and how much plant material they consumed. Even a small amount could cause an issue for a sensitive pet.
Curious puppies and kittens are often at a higher risk, as they tend to explore their environment by chewing. However, any pet might be tempted to nibble on a plant out of boredom or curiosity. It is always safest to assume any ingestion could be harmful and to keep the plant completely out of their reach.
Keeping cats, dogs, and lavender plants apart
Supervision is key to pet safety. Do not leave your cat or dog unattended with access to a lavender plant, whether it is in your home or garden. For indoor plants, place them in a room that your pets cannot enter. Placing plants on high shelves may not be enough to deter a determined cat.
For outdoor gardens, consider using pet-safe fencing or other barriers to create a space where your pets can play without reaching toxic plants. Regularly check your yard for any dropped leaves or flowers from lavender bushes. Always supervise pets when they are outdoors to prevent them from eating potentially harmful foliage.
When to call your vet
If your pet chewed or ate part of this plant, call your veterinarian or an animal poison control line. Note which plant and which part, how much may be gone and when, and take a photo or a piece of the plant with you.
If you suspect your cat or dog has eaten any part of a lavender plant, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center immediately. Be prepared to tell them what your pet ate, how much you think they consumed, and when it happened. Do not attempt to induce vomiting or provide any home remedies without professional veterinary guidance.
Emergency signs: go now
- Collapse, fainting or severe weakness
- Seizures, tremors or trouble standing
- Trouble breathing or blue, gray or very pale gums
- Repeated vomiting or retching, or a swollen, painful belly
- Any known contact with a substance listed as toxic, even before signs appear
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- Vomiting or diarrhea that lasts or keeps coming back
- Not eating or drinking, or drinking much more than usual
- Drooling, pawing at the mouth or a swollen face
- Lethargy, hiding or acting unlike themselves
ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: (888) 426-4435 (a consultation fee may apply). Your own vet or nearest emergency clinic is always a good first call.
Sources
Last checked October 21, 2026. Listings and guidance can change; your veterinarian knows your pet’s health history.