Is Lavender Toxic to Pets?
Yes — lavender is mildly toxic to cats. Yes — lavender is mildly toxic to dogs. Yes — lavender is mildly toxic to horses.
PawSafe Check is for general information only and is not veterinary advice. Always contact your veterinarian or a poison control service if you think your pet has been exposed.
- Scientific name
- Lavandula angustifolia
- Toxic compound
- Linalool and linalyl acetate
- Toxic parts
- All parts and essential oil
- Also known as
- english lavender
Symptoms
Cats (mildly toxic)
- Mild vomiting
- Soft stool or diarrhea
Dogs (mildly toxic)
- Mild vomiting
- Soft stool or diarrhea
Horses (mildly toxic)
- Mild vomiting
- Soft stool or diarrhea
What to do
If your cat ate lavender
- Remove any plant material from your cat's mouth and keep it out of reach.
- Gently rinse the mouth and offer fresh water.
- Call your vet if symptoms persist, get worse, or your cat is small, young or elderly.
If your dog ate lavender
- Remove any plant material from your dog's mouth and keep it out of reach.
- Gently rinse the mouth and offer fresh water.
- Call your vet if symptoms persist, get worse, or your dog is small, young or elderly.
If your horse ate lavender
- Remove any plant material from your horse's mouth and keep it out of reach.
- Gently rinse the mouth and offer fresh water.
- Call your vet if symptoms persist, get worse, or your horse is small, young or elderly.
Good to know
Lavender plants cause mild nausea and vomiting. Concentrated lavender oil is more concerning, especially for cats.
Is your pet covered for emergency vet bills?
Compare pet insurance quotes →
Pet-safe alternatives
Frequently asked questions
Is lavender toxic to cats?
Yes — lavender is mildly toxic to cats. Common signs include mild vomiting, soft stool or diarrhea.
Is lavender toxic to dogs?
Yes — lavender is mildly toxic to dogs. Common signs include mild vomiting, soft stool or diarrhea.
Is lavender toxic to horses?
Yes — lavender is mildly toxic to horses. Common signs include mild vomiting, soft stool or diarrhea.
Which parts of lavender are toxic?
All parts and essential oil.
What makes lavender toxic?
Linalool and linalyl acetate.
Related items
Free printable: 25 pet-safe houseplants + emergency numbers
We only use your email to send the list and occasional pet-safety tips. Unsubscribe anytime. Privacy policy