I Saw My Cat Eating Pot

New legislation is allowing us to relax in whole new ways. Many states have legalized recreational and/or medicinal pot. But this doesn’t mean your cat should relax with pot. Marijuana has a more pronounced effect on cats because of their smaller size and metabolism. Whether you have been prescribed medical marijuana or recreationally use it, you must keep it to yourself and away from your feline friend. 

Cats and Pot

THC and CBD are the two active compounds found in marijuana. Depending on the strain or concentration, these compounds can act as stimulants or depressants. CBD is less toxic than THC, because it is derived from hemp to avoid large amounts of THC. CBD is being used as a new method to help cats cope with pain such as arthritis or disorders such as anxiety related to receiving veterinary care. If your cat has consumed pot in any form from a marijuana plant, edibles, or highly concentrated oil products, they can be severely affected. Just a small amount of THC can be dangerous and cause poisoning. 

Symptoms of THC Poisoning

Clinical signs of poisoning can range from mild to severe, depending on the amount ingested, when it was consumed and the health of your cat. Signs can appear within 30 minutes to an hour and last anywhere between 6 to 12 hours. In a severe situation, symptoms may be seen for up to 96 hours. Possible signs include: 

  • Dazed expression
  • Glassy eyes
  • Incoordination
  • Slow response times
  • Dribbling urine
  • Vomiting
  • Drooling
  • Changes in heart rate
  • Hyperactivity
  • Vocalization
  • Coma

Treatment

If you catch your cat eating pot, you must call your veterinarian and Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 for first aid advice. If you seek treatment right away your veterinarian may attempt to induce vomiting to remove any undigested marijuana and administer activated charcoal to stop further absorption. There is no antidote for THC poisoning, so supportive care will be needed until the symptoms pass. If you have further questions or concerns about THC poisoning in pets do not hesitate to call Pet Poison Helpline to ease your mind