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Can lavender essential oil diffusers be toxic for my cat nearby?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Turkish Van | Female | spayed | 12 lbs

I recently read that Lavender oil can be toxic to cats, even if it's just inhaled. I regularly use a diffuser in my bedroom. My cat doesn't seem to have any negative reaction to it though. But some articles have said that it takes time for the toxins to build up. She was recently very sick but it was before she was exposed the essential oil. She sleeps with me and hasn't been ill. Is it unsafe to have her around the diffuser while it's on? The oil is organic and blended in a local shop.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 15th, 2018

It really depends on the product and the concentration. The fact that it is organic would not necessarily make a difference in the potential for problems. The truth is that there is little known about the safety of these products, because the companies have not adequately tested their products with animals. There are some essential oil diffusers like lavender that have been known to cause respiratory and skin problems. In general, dogs and cats are going to be more sensitive to the smell of these products than humans, so it may be at-least displeasing to them. Cats are more sensitive than dogs, so they will likely serve as the sentinel if there are going to be any issues. If you are already using the oils and not noticing any problems, then they are likely OK; but no one really knows for sure. If you notice an increase in sneezing, coughing, or skin problems, then it would be wise to remove the diffuser. I hope that helps and all is well with Shyanne.

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Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 19th, 2018

    It really depends on the product and the concentration. The truth is that there is little known about the safety of these products, because the companies have not adequately tested their products with animals. There are some essential oil diffusers like lavender that have been known to cause respiratory and skin problems. In general, dogs and cats are going to be more sensitive to the smell of these products than humans, so it may be at-least displeasing to them. Cats are more sensitive than dogs, so they will likely serve as the sentinel. The animal poison control center has the following statement about essential oils: “Cats are especially sensitive to essential oils, and effects such as gastrointestinal upset, central nervous system depression and even liver damage could occur if ingested in significant quantities. Inhalation of the oils could lead to aspiration pneumonia. There are significant variations in toxicity among specific oils. Based on this, we would not recommend using essential oils in areas where your pets have access, unless pets are supervised or the use of the oil is approved by your veterinarian.” I hope that helps and all is well with Toffee Nut.

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