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Is lavender toxic to cats and dogs?

Toxic to cats and dogs

Lavender · Lavandula angustifolia

Lavender is toxic to cats and dogs if chewed or ingested.

My pet ate some: what to do now
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
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What to do if your pet ate it

If you think your cat or dog ate any part of a lavender, act quickly. Do not wait for symptoms to appear.

  1. Remove the plant from the pet’s reach.
  2. Call your vet or an emergency animal clinic immediately.
  3. When you call, have the plant’s name or a photo ready. Tell the vet roughly how much your pet ate and when.

Do not induce vomiting unless a vet specifically instructs you to. It can make some poisonings worse.

Symptoms

Symptoms may include:

  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Drooling
  • Loss of appetite

Non-toxic plants for similar light

Arabian jasmineJasminum sambacBright / direct lightPet-safeEcheveriaEcheveria spp.Bright / direct lightPet-safeDonkey’s tailSedum morganianumBright / direct lightPet-safePonytail palmBeaucarnea recurvataBright / direct lightPet-safe

See all pet-safe alternatives →

Pet-safety information in the JungleBook uses ASPCA reference data where available. It is reference information, not veterinary advice.

All lavender guides

Related plants

Gardenia: pet toxicityGardenia jasminoidesToxic to petsPeace lilySpathiphyllum wallisiiToxic to petsBird of paradiseStrelitzia reginaeToxic to petsAnthuriumAnthurium andraeanumToxic to pets

Common questions

Is lavender toxic to cats?

Yes, lavender is toxic to cats. If your cat chews or ingests any part of the plant, contact your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center right away. Symptoms can include vomiting, diarrhea, and drooling.

Is lavender toxic to dogs?

Yes, lavender is toxic to dogs. Contact your vet immediately if your dog eats any part of it. Do not wait for symptoms.

What should I do if my cat ate lavender?

Call your vet or an emergency animal clinic immediately. You can also contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (24/7). Try to bring a piece of the plant or a photo so the vet can identify the species. Do not try to induce vomiting unless instructed by a professional.

Can I keep lavender with pets?

Lavender is toxic to cats and dogs, so it is best kept out of reach: ideally in a room your pets cannot access, or replaced with a non-toxic alternative. See the pet-safe alternatives listed on this page.

ASPCA reference · Last reviewed: