Will Tea Tree Oil Harm Plants?

I am attempting to try my hand at growing a potted plant again, it's an airplane/spider plant. I have just recently put a start in a hanging pot. My problem is the fact that I have a large number of indoor cats! I took 4 Q-tips and lightly moistened the tips with tea tree oil and laid them along the inside edge of the pot, to deter them from bothering the plant as they dislike the smell.

My concern, will the smell bother the plant? I hope not, because, so far, this is working like a charm, and will be the perfect way to protect my plant!

Many thanks for any advice given,
Linda from Southeast Iowa