Medical and recreational use of cannabis has become legal in many states, massively expanding the available product types and concentrations. Many American homes now contain marijuana products, increasing the likelihood of pets finding their owner’s stash. If pets ingest marijuana plants or other products, toxicity can result. Here, UrgentVet covers what to know about marijuana toxicity in dogs and cats.
Frequently Asked Questions About What Happens if a Dog or Cat Eats Weed
Although rarely fatal, cannabis exposure can be severe enough to require hospitalization and supportive care. The UrgentVet team wants pet owners to understand the risks of marijuana exposure, so we’ve compiled the answers to frequently asked questions about cannabis toxicity in pets.
Is marijuana toxic to dogs and cats?
The psychoactive component in marijuana, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), can cause intoxication that lasts between 24 and 72 hours in pets. In dogs, cannabinoid receptors are concentrated in the brain’s balance center, causing affected pets to suffer from dizziness and incoordination. Fortunately, toxicity is unlikely to cause serious or long-term effects. Seizures or coma can occur in severe cases, and death has been reported only a handful of times.
How does marijuana (THC) exposure happen in pets?
Pets are curious and often highly motivated by food. Edibles are the most frequent exposure route and can also be the most dangerous. Products such as brownies or gummies may contain chocolate or xylitol, toxic substances with more serious health effects for pets than marijuana alone. Pets may also consume the plant material, which has a strong and interesting odor that attracts dogs and cats. Secondhand smoke rarely causes intoxication unless the pet is in an enclosed space.
How common is marijuana toxicity in dogs and cats?
In 2023, 2.3% of the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center’s calls were about recreational drugs, most often marijuana or mushrooms. Recreational drugs ranked #10 in the organization’s top 10 most frequent toxicity offenders.
What are the signs of marijuana toxicity in dogs and cats?
The severity of marijuana poisoning in dogs and cats depends on the amount ingested relative to the pet’s size and sensitivity. Clinical signs appear within 30 minutes to a few hours and can last a day or longer. Common symptoms of marijuana toxicity in cats and dogs include:
- Ataxia (i.e., loss of coordination)
- Sedation
- Dilated pupils
- Drooling
- Urinary incontinence (i.e., dribbling urine)
- High or low heart rate
- High or low body temperature
- Vomiting (usually in cats)
- Altered mental state
- Sensitivity to sound, movement, or touch
What should I do if my pet ingests marijuana?
Seek veterinary advice or emergency care if you know or suspect your pet ingested marijuana. Although THC is unlikely to be fatal, it’s a good idea to contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center or Pet Poison Helpline for guidance. Consult the product’s original packaging and provide as many details as possible. You can also call your nearest UrgentVet location for assistance.
How is marijuana intoxication in dogs and cats treated?
Treatment for cannabis exposure and intoxication varies depending on severity. Mild cases can often be monitored at home. However, pets suffering severe THC poisoning from cannabis intoxication or who consume additional toxins, such as chocolate, need prompt veterinary attention. Treatment of marijuana toxicity in dogs or cats may include supportive care, IV fluids, vitals monitoring, and anti-nausea medications. In severe cases or when pets are recovering too slowly, therapy with intravenous lipids (i.e., fats) can help bind some of the THC and more quickly remove it from the pet’s system.
Can I get in trouble for my pet’s marijuana ingestion?
Veterinarians only want to help you and your pet. To ensure your pet is appropriately diagnosed and treated, you must be honest about substances they may have consumed—including marijuana and other drugs. If cannabis is illegal in your state, your pet’s veterinary team has little interest in turning you in. We only want to help, and withholding information makes it harder for us to do our jobs.
Is CBD safe for pets?
Unlike THC, cannabidiol (CBD) does not cause intoxication in pets. Research backing CBD in veterinary medicine is hampered by federal laws, but some studies show promise for treating pain, anxiety, inflammation, and seizures. Always consult your veterinarian before starting your pet on a cannabinoid-based supplement, as quality control issues could lead to unintended marijuana toxicosis.
If you or others in your household enjoy recreational or medicinal marijuana, keep pets safe from accidental ingestion by storing cannabis in tightly closed containers and keeping them out of your pet’s reach. Learn to recognize the signs of ingestion and seek prompt veterinary care if you suspect marijuana poisoning in your dog or cat. Contact your local UrgentVet team to learn more about THC poisoning in dogs and cats or if you suspect your pet ingested a marijuana product—because your pet can’t wait to feel better.
