With legal marijuana available in a number of states, more and more pets have access to the plant. Additionally, dogs and cats may come across marijuana edibles, which are appealing to many pets.
Marijuana Toxicity in Pets
When ingested, marijuana can be quite toxic for pets. Dogs and cats do not metabolize marijuana the same way humans do. Pets will become lethargic and confused after exposure to marijuana. In most cases, they will also begin to leak urine, seem dizzy, become hypothermic and can become comatose. Many pet parents will describe their pets as “drunk.”
In some pets with high exposure levels, seizures can occur.
What To Do If Your Pet Ingests Marijuana
If you witnessed your pet ingest marijuana or suspect that it occurred, your pet should be seen by a veterinarian immediately. Edibles can be somewhat more toxic due to their high concentration of THC, but all forms of marijuana are toxic to dogs and cats when ingested. Marijuana smoke can also cause symptoms of intoxication in pets, but these are usually more mild.
When you arrive at your veterinarian’s office, let them know the amount and type of marijuana your pet has ingested. If you have packaging, it helps to bring that so the THC concentration can be noted. It also will help your veterinarian determine if the product contained any other toxic substances, such as chocolate.
Treating Marijuana Toxicity in Pets
Luckily, marijuana toxicity is something your veterinarian can treat. Treatment is aimed at what clinical symptoms your pet is showing. If your pet is having seizures, an anticonvulsant needs to be given. For the majority of pets, IV fluids are given along with medications to help bind the toxins from the THC in your pet’s gastrointestinal system. Other medications can be given based on symptoms.
Most pets recover fully after treatment, but symptoms can last several hours while the THC is metabolized.
Will I Get in Trouble?
Many pet parents feel embarrassed when their pets have eaten marijuana, or even fear legal trouble. This leads some people to avoid a visit to the veterinarian, or to withhold information once they arrive at the clinic.
Rest assured, your veterinarian will not report the toxicity; his or her goal is simply to provide your pet with the best treatment. The more details you can provide to your veterinarian, the better. Many toxins have similar symptoms, making diagnosis difficult without the full picture.
The Bottom Line
Marijuana, while less toxic than many other substances, can still be dangerous to cats and dogs. Pets will often eat things we would never imagine, so be sure to store any products with THC out of your pet’s reach.