Lavandula angustifolia / Lavandula spp.
Why is it safe?
The lavender plant contains linalool and linalyl acetate in much lower concentrations than lavender essential oil. ASPCA lists lavender as mildly toxic, small amounts of plant material cause mild GI upset at most. Most cats are deterred by the scent. This is a fundamentally different risk profile from concentrated lavender essential oil.
Affected Systems
Digestive
Symptoms
Mild vomiting or nausea if ingested in quantity. Most cats avoid the plant.
What To Do
No action needed for minor contact. Monitor if large amounts consumed.
Notes
Risk escalates with concentration: fresh plant (low) → dried sachets (low-medium) → lavender fragrance products (low-medium) → concentrated essential oil (medium, see separate entry). Normal household use of lavender products carries very low risk. Keep concentrated lavender oil and high-potency sprays inaccessible.
Sources
→ ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center — aspca.org/pet-care/aspca-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants/lavender
→ International Cat Care — icatcare.org