Is Kai-lan (Gai Lan) toxic to cats?

Mildly. The ASPCA lists kai-lan (gai lan) as mildly toxic to cats — a chewing cat typically gets mouth irritation, drooling, and vomiting rather than a medical emergency, but it is still best kept out of reach. Brassica oleracea cultivars are widely treated as safe in moderation for cats and dogs, but the ASPCA's Brassica/Indian Mustard listing is toxic to horses (isothiocyanates; gastrointestinal irritation and colic), and isothiocyanates and oxalates in the genus can cause GI upset, gas, and—rarely, with large repeated amounts—thiocyanate effects in pets. Keep away from horses and consult a vet for any unwell animal.

Brassica oleracea cultivars are widely treated as safe in moderation for cats and dogs, but the ASPCA's Brassica/Indian Mustard listing is toxic to horses (isothiocyanates; gastrointestinal irritation and colic), and isothiocyanates and oxalates in the genus can cause GI upset, gas, and—rarely, with large repeated amounts—thiocyanate effects in pets. Keep away from horses and consult a vet for any unwell animal. Signs usually appear soon after chewing rather than hours later — watch for drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite, or unusual lethargy after your cat has had access to kai-lan (gai lan).

Stay calm. Remove any plant from your cat's mouth and take the plant away. Note how much was eaten and when, and do not induce vomiting unless told to. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 and follow their advice; a leaf or photo helps the vet treat it correctly.

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Kai-lan (Gai Lan) is mildly toxic to dogs as well. See the full kai-lan (gai lan) pet-safety guide for both species.

For a similar look without the risk, see the best cats-safe plants list — every plant there is ASPCA non-toxic to cats and dogs.