Is lavender oil toxic for cats? What if my cat breathes it in?

Lavender, orange (can extend to blood orange), and peppermint are all toxic to cats so I would not use them at all. Cats have a much more sensitive sense of smell than humans, and even the smell of these can be very irritating. I don't ever recommend using any essential oils around cats due to the risks, and I would see if you can make the candle tarts in a place away from your cat. I hope this helps!

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.

I will link a website below that has lists of the many essential oils that are toxic to cats and ones that are safe around cats. Just as a note, lavender , fir needle, and spruce essential oils are all toxic to cats. Safe essential oils include cedar wood, lemongrass, peppermint, and rosemary. http://essentialoilworld.com/essentialoilreviews/essential-oil-safety-with-cats/

The biggest problem with essential oils is not the smell, but when the oil gets onto the cat and they lick it off. This can happen when the oil is aerosolized or if it is sprayed or poured and the cat walks through it since they will then lick their paws. So, if you have sprayed or poured the peppermint oil in an area that Luna may walk through, then make sure you wash the area well. The strong smell is mainly a concern if a cat has asthma and is not associated with the toxicity aspect of essential oils. I am attaching a link to more information about essential oils below for your information. http://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/blog/essential-oils-cats/ I have used diluted peppermint oil in my house and my cats have not had any problem, but you need to be careful that they do not have any access to it. I hope that was helpful and answered your question. Thanks for using Boop by Petco.

Hi, Maura. That is a tricky question to answer because there haven't been any studies on essential oils and cats. Some cats are very sensitive to scents and can develop asthma (even some plug-in diffusers can cause issues in cats). Some essential oils are toxic in cats. Here is a book that many vets will use when considering using essential oils: "The Animal Desk Reference: Essential Oils for Animals".

They can be harmful if low quality and not diluted properly. Other than that the other problem is unique to each pet... allergies! Just like people some animals can allergic or sensitive to certain odors. If you have not noticed any sneezing or vomiting then your are not likely sensitive to them

I wouldn't have any concerns about contacting this small amount of lavender oil. Cats can be sensitive to essential oils that are diffused in the air or used topically on the cat, but contact with a small amount shouldn't be a concern.

I definitely would not use the essential oils around your cats. There are many that are toxic to cats, even when they are inhaled, so it's best to avoid it completely for the health of your cats. I hope this helps!

This is a good question. Cats are very sensitive to essential oils, and you are correct that some oils can be toxic. Their sense of smell is so much more acute than humans, so even diffusing diluted oils can be very unpleasant for them. I suggest do not use a diffuser, instead if you'd like to use or smell oils, apply them to your skin or a tissue to sniff. Do not apply any oils to your cats fur.

Tea tree oil is toxic to cats, and I would not use it at all in your home, as there is a chance Poe could lick the oils and become very sick. Lavender is also toxic, as are citrus oils (orange) and eucalyptus. Peppermint and lemongrass are the only safe ones you have to use around Poe, and I would restrict your use to those essential oils only. You can also use cedar wood and rosemary.