Is Charlock Toxic to Dogs and Cats? (2026)

Brassica kaber

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Mild
Mild
Varies

Quick facts

Toxic to dogsYes
Toxic to catsYes
Toxic to horsesYes
Toxic componentGlucosinolates (mustard oil compounds)
Onset of symptomsWithin a few hours
Indoor / outdooroutdoor

If your pet ate this plant

Both lines are staffed 24/7. A consultation fee applies to each. Do not wait for symptoms to appear before calling.

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Symptoms in dogs

  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Drooling

Symptoms in cats

  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Drooling

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What to do

Usually resolves with monitoring; a common agricultural weed rather than an ornamental, so exposure is mostly relevant for pets with pasture or farmland access.

Toxic component and mechanism

The toxic component in Charlock is glucosinolates (mustard oil compounds).

What makes this plant different

Charlock is a common agricultural field weed rather than an ornamental garden plant, meaning exposure is far more relevant for pets with access to farmland or pasture edges than for typical suburban or indoor pets.

Plant identification

Scientific name
Brassica kaber
Family
Cruciferae
Also known as
Charlock, Wild Mustard, California Rape
Typically found
outdoor

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The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Plant toxicity data is sourced from the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants database. If you believe your pet has ingested a toxic plant, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) immediately. Do not wait for symptoms to appear.

Last verified: July 2, 2026 · Cross-referenced with ASPCA Animal Poison Control