Kavanagh was initially named in Ireland's squad for the 2014 Rugby World Cup but was ruled out due to a hamstring injury she sustained in Ireland’s final warm-up match against Wales.[2][3] She was replaced by Vikki McGinn.[4][3]
Kavanagh returned to the international stage in a 48–7 loss to Canada in 2016.[2][5] She later played against the Black Ferns and scored a late consolation try in her sides 38–8 loss.[6] In 2021 she was named in Munster's squad for the Vodafone Women’s Interpros.[7]