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!

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 PetCoach.

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.

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.

In most cases, if it is a tiny amount going into the air it isn't problematic, the main concern is if your cat is getting the oils onto their fur and licking it off, or directly inhaling the diffuser.

Lavender oil is toxic to cats, and one of the signs is vomiting as well as a loss of appetite. If you used it in the house yesterday and Gini is now showing these signs, I would suspect that may be the cause. It's quite serious when a cat won't eat, especially one as young as her. I'd take her into a vet immediately to get checked out. Best of luck