Sat, 02 May 2026 22:14:42 +0000

This Houseplant Could Kill Your Cat—or Not? The Truth About Lavender When it comes to caring for our feline friends, every plant in the home presents a silent risk—or unexpected benefit. One plant that often stirs controversy among cat owners is lavender (Lavandula spp.). Popular for its calming scent and aromatic appeal, lavender is widely celebrated in homes and gardens alike—but is it safe for curious cats? This article uncovers the truth: did lavender truly pose a danger to cats, or is the worry overblown? ### What Makes Lavender Hazardous to Cats? Lavender contains essential oils—particularly compounds like linalool and linalyl acetate—which give it its distinctive fragrance and therapeutic properties. While these compounds are safe and even beneficial for humans, cats are uniquely sensitive. Compared to humans, cats metabolize certain chemicals far more slowly, making essential oils potentially toxic even in small amounts.