When your pet ingests cannabis, it’s natural to feel alarmed, but in most cases, they will be fine as long as the consumption isn’t excessive and you seek prompt veterinary care.

Dog owners, in particular, need to exercise extra caution as over 95% of cannabis exposures in pets involve canines, according to the Humane Society of Boulder Valley.

Understanding weed toxicity in dogs & cats

It’s crucial to understand that cannabis is toxic to pets due to the numerous chemicals and compounds it contains. THC, the primary psychoactive component, can lead to intoxication in both humans and animals.

Dogs, in particular, are highly sensitive to cannabis effects because their brains contain a higher concentration of CB1 and CB2 receptors, located in areas responsible for vital functions like respiratory rate, coordination, and heart rate.

The main cause of weed poisoning in dogs is the activation of these receptors by THC. While there’s debate about the lethal dosage of THC in dogs, studies offer varying perspectives.

Determining lethal levels of cannabis

A 1973 study by Thompson et al., published in Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology, suggested that single oral THC doses ranging from 3-9 grams per kilogram in dogs and monkeys were non-lethal.

However, a contrasting 2013 study by Fitzgerald, Bronstein, and Newquist, published in the Topics in Companion Animal Magazine, indicated that the minimum lethal oral dose of THC for dogs was 3 grams per kilogram.

It’s essential to note that these studies measure grams of THC consumed, not grams of weed. While the discrepancy in findings is notable, it underscores the importance of understanding the potential risks associated with THC ingestion by pets and the need for immediate veterinary attention.

Review of cannabis toxicity in dogs: what every pet owner should know

A comprehensive review conducted by Janczyk, Donaldson, and Gwaltney in 2004, featured in the esteemed Journal of Veterinary and Human Toxicology, presents divergent findings regarding cannabis toxicity in dogs.

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Cannabis consumption study details

The study involved administering varying doses of cannabis to dogs, ranging from 0.5 grams to a staggering 90 grams. Remarkably, distress symptoms only surfaced when a canine ingested a minimum of 8.4 grams of weed per kilogram of body weight.

The highest recorded dosage reached 26.8 grams per kilogram, nearly equivalent to an ounce, yet it did not prove fatal for the canine subjects.

Understanding toxicity levels

For instance, if your dog weighs 10 kilograms and consumes a full ounce of cannabis, the toxicity level experienced is approximately one-tenth of what could potentially be lethal.

Notably, the review predominantly scrutinized weed ingestion rather than isolated THC consumption.

Clarifying misconceptions

Between 2015 and 2023, two reported cases in London highlighted dogs perishing after consuming weed-infused edibles.

However, the fatalities resulted from asphyxiation caused by vomit inhalation, rather than direct weed toxicity, although cannabis consumption instigated the events.

Symptoms and diagnosis insights

Pets typically exhibit symptoms within an hour of ingestion, with a delayed onset of up to three hours for edibles. Similar to humans, animals manifest diverse reactions to cannabis consumption.

Approximately 25% experience heightened anxiety and excitement, while the majority display signs of depression and lethargy.

Once ingested, THC rapidly permeates the bloodstream, leading to various gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, and drooling in about 30% of cases.

Due to THC’s fat-soluble nature, mild symptoms may persist for several days. Additional effects encompass:

• Reduced heart rate
• Disorientation akin to drunkenness
• Dilated pupils
• Urinary incontinence
• Tremors
• Hypothermia
• Coma
• Seizures

In the absence of visible symptoms post-weed ingestion, prompt veterinary intervention is crucial. A comprehensive examination, including urinalysis, bloodwork, and biochemical profiling, aids in diagnosis. Furthermore, urine testing for cannabinoids is standard practice.

In select instances, gas chromatography testing may be employed, albeit with delayed results. However, veterinarians can diagnose weed toxicity during the consultation.

Depending on ingestion timing and chemical response, vets may opt for decontamination measures, comprising antiemetic medication to halt vomiting and activated charcoal to mitigate further THC absorption.

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Comprehensive treatment and recovery guidelines for pets exposed to cannabis

Ensuring your pet’s well-being requires proactive steps and transparent communication with your veterinarian regarding cannabis exposure. Fortunately, veterinarians are not mandated to report incidents of weed exposure, alleviating any legal concerns.

Swift intervention is paramount

Time sensitivity underscores the urgency of seeking veterinary assistance promptly. Ideally, professional intervention should occur within 30 minutes of ingestion to facilitate induced vomiting, expelling cannabis from the stomach.

Attempting to induce vomiting beyond this timeframe heightens the risk of aspiration pneumonia, a potentially fatal complication.

In cases of severe agitation, veterinarians may administer benzodiazepines for sedation. Intravenous fluids combat dehydration in vomiting pets, while continuous monitoring of blood pressure and oxygen levels ensures comprehensive care. In severe instances, respiratory support through a respirator or ventilator may be necessary.

Recovery dynamics

The trajectory of your pet’s recovery hinges on the extent of exposure and the timeliness of treatment. As evidenced in prior studies, the pet’s weight influences toxicity levels significantly.

A 20-pound dog consuming half an ounce of cannabis may exhibit more severe symptoms than a 50-pound counterpart under similar circumstances.

Typically, effects subside within a few days, with minimal residual impact. Expedited recovery may occur within hours post-treatment for cases of minimal exposure. It’s noteworthy that existing research predominantly examines weed exposure in dogs.

In rare instances, cannabis ingestion may precipitate static ataxia symptoms, characterized by difficulty standing and rigidity. Prompt medical attention is imperative, as static ataxia poses a potentially fatal threat if left unaddressed.

Safeguarding measures against accidental exposure

Mitigating the risk of accidental cannabis exposure necessitates responsible usage and storage practices. Secure all weed products in sealed containers within cabinets, beyond your pet’s reach, preferably in locked storage units.

Avoid unattended cannabis usage and ensure disposal in sealed containers, refraining from compost bins or open trash receptacles. Additionally, isolate your pet in a separate room during cannabis consumption to avert inadvertent exposure.

By adhering to these precautions, pet owners can significantly diminish the likelihood of cannabis-related incidents and safeguard their beloved companions’ well-being.

 

Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is for educational purposes only and should not be considered Vet Advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before using any THC product.