Is THC Harmful to Pets? A Vet’s Perspective

With the growing acceptance of marijuana, it’s more important than ever to understand how it affects pets. Many pet owners do not realize that THC, the psychoactive compound in marijuana, is harmful to their beloved companions. This article explores the effect of THC on pets, providing pet owners with the knowledge they need to keep their furry family members safe. This article aims to cover everything from the symptoms and causes of THC poisoning to diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. Ensure pets stay happy and healthy, even as the world around them changes.

Understanding THC and its Effects on Pets

THC, short for tetrahydrocannabinol, is the chemical in marijuana that causes the “high” sensation in humans. But for pets, it’s a different story. Unlike CBD, which is known for its potential therapeutic benefits, THC has adverse effects on furry friends.

Why is THC Toxic to Pets?

This all comes down to how the pets’ bodies process THC. “Dogs are more sensitive to THC than humans due to a different metabolic route and larger number of cannabinoid receptors in their brains,” (Joffe, M., & Joffe, D., 2020) This makes them much more sensitive to the effects of THC. Even small amounts of THC throw their system off balance, leading to poisoning with symptoms ranging from mild to severe. 

The Endocannabinoid System and THC

To understand why THC affects pets so strongly, it’s helpful to know a bit about the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is present in humans and animals and is crucial in regulating various bodily functions, including mood, appetite, sleep, pain sensation, and immune response.

THC disrupts the normal functioning of the ECS, leading to the various symptoms associated with marijuana poisoning.

THC vs. CBD for Pets

While both THC and CBD are derived from the cannabis plant, they have very different effects on furry friends. Understanding these differences is crucial to making informed decisions about a pet’s health.

The Psychoactive Compound

THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the primary psychoactive compound in marijuana. It’s what causes the “high” in humans. However, for pets, THC is toxic even in small amounts. Their heightened sensitivity means they experience a range of adverse effects, from mild disorientation to severe neurological issues (Gyles C., 2016).

The Non-Psychoactive Option

CBD, or cannabidiol, is another compound found in cannabis. Unlike THC, it’s non-psychoactive, meaning it doesn’t cause a “high.” CBD is generally considered safe for pets and is often used to support various health conditions, such as:

• Anxiety
• Pain
• Inflammation
• Seizures

Why the Difference Matters

It’s crucial to distinguish between THC and CBD when considering CBD products for a pet. While CBD offers potential therapeutic benefits, THC poses a significant risk. Always ensure any CBD products given to a pet contain only trace amounts (less than 0.3%).

Choosing Wisely for A Pet

With the increasing availability of cannabis products, it’s more important than ever to be an informed consumer. Read labels carefully, choose reputable brands, and always consult the pet’s veterinarian before giving a pet any new supplement, including CBD.

Symptoms of THC Poisoning

If a pet has been exposed to THC, pet owners notice some telltale signs. These symptoms range from mild to severe (Amissah, R. Q., et al., 2022). ), and it’s important to be aware of them and know when to seek immediate veterinary help if needed.

Lethargy and Incoordination

Pets seem unusually drowsy, unsteady on their feet, or have difficulty walking. “Acute and chronic delta9-THC exposure may interfere with motor and cognitive functions by altering the density of phosphorylated CREB in the cerebellum,” (Casu, M., et al., 2005). By affecting the cerebellum (the region responsible for coordination) and vestibular system (which regulates balance), THC leads to ataxia—a condition where the pet appears clumsy, uncoordinated, and has difficulty standing, walking, or moving normally.

They stumble or sway as they move, almost as if they’ve had one too many catnip cocktails! 

Dilated Pupils and Glassy Eyes

Their eyes look wider than usual, with a glazed or distant expression. This is due to THC’s effect on the nervous system. A study showed that “THC induces mydriasis in rats through a central action, with the sympathetic system as the efferent pathway, and this effect is not influenced by naloxone or naloxone-naloxone interactions,” (Korczyn, A., & Eshel, Y., 1982). THC has been found to activate the sympathetic nervous system, resulting in pupil dilation (mydriasis). Under normal circumstances, the pupils dilate in low-light conditions or during times of stress to allow more light into the eyes. THC induces a comparable reaction by interacting with the brain’s cannabinoid receptors.

Vomiting and Urinary Incontinence

Some pets experience digestive issues, such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, as a result of THC exposure. Research suggests that “THC activation of cannabinoid receptors induces changes in the gut microbiome and affects the naïve immune system,” (Becker, W., Nagarkatti, M., & Nagarkatti, P., 2017). This disruption in gut function results in feelings of nausea and, in severe cases, vomiting. 

Additionally, “THC ingestion leads to reduced sympathetic activity and increased parasympathetic activity” (Benowitz, N., & Jones, R., 1977), affecting bladder function and potentially causing urinary incontinence.

Changes in Behavior

THC also affects a pet’s behavior. Pets are acting strangely – perhaps more anxious, agitated, or sensitive to noise and touch. They seem disoriented or confused. Research showed that “THC effects on anxiety-like behavior in pets are moderated by the dose factor, with anxiolytic- and anxiogenic-like effects occurring at low-dose (0.075-1 mg/kg) and high-dose (1-10 mg/kg) ranges, respectively,” (Iglesias, L., et al., 2022).

How Pets Get Exposed to THC

THC exposure happens in various ways, often when we least expect it. As responsible pet owners, it’s important to be aware of the common sources of THC to protect furry friends.

Ingesting Edibles

Those tempting brownies, cookies, or candies infused with marijuana are a major hazard for curious pets. Many edibles have enticing smells and tastes that attract furry friends, but even small amounts lead to THC poisoning. 

Inhaling Secondhand Smoke

Even if pet owners are not blowing smoke directly at their pets, they still inhale enough secondhand smoke to cause problems. Just like secondhand smoke is harmful to humans, it also affects pets. A clinical report showed that “A cat exposed to marijuana smoke developed alternate states of agitation and apathy, and showed symmetric mydriasis and scleral congestion,” (Janeczek, A., et al., 2018). 

Consuming Plant Material

Whether it’s dried marijuana buds or discarded stems and leaves, these are tempting for pets to nibble on, especially dogs who tend to explore the world with their mouths.

The Hidden Dangers of Edibles

It’s important to remember that edibles pose a particularly high risk for pets. They often contain concentrated amounts of THC, making them much more potent than the plant material itself. Additionally, many edibles contain other ingredients that are toxic to pets, such as chocolate, raisins, or xylitol.

By being aware of these common sources of THC exposure, pet owners are able to protect their pets and keep them safe from harm.

Diagnosing THC Poisoning: A Trip to the Vet

If pet owners suspect their pet has been exposed to THC, it’s crucial to seek veterinary attention immediately. Veterinarians conduct a thorough examination, including:

Physical Exam: Checking for any abnormal signs like dilated pupils, slow heart rate, or difficulty walking.

Blood and Urine Tests: These help detect THC and rule out other potential causes of a pet’s symptoms.

Medical History: Be honest with the pet’s veterinarian about any possible THC exposure. This information is vital for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

It’s important to keep in mind that the main priority of the pet’s veterinarian is the well-being of the pet. Feel free to share any beneficial information, even if it feels awkward. 

Treating THC Poisoning

Unfortunately, there’s no magic antidote to reverse the effects of THC poisoning in pets. Treatment focuses on managing the symptoms and supporting the pet’s body as it works to process the THC. What veterinarians usually do are listed below.

Induce Vomiting

If the ingestion was recent, inducing vomiting helps remove THC from the pet’s stomach before it’s fully absorbed. This is most effective within the first hour or two after exposure.

Administer Activated Charcoal

Activated charcoal is a substance that binds to toxins in the intestines, preventing them from being absorbed into the bloodstream. This helps reduce the severity and duration of THC poisoning symptoms but its effectiveness depends on the dosage and timing of ingestion (Zellner, T., et al., 2019).

Provide IV Fluids

Intravenous fluids help prevent dehydration, which is a common side effect of THC poisoning. They also support organ function and help flush toxins from the body.

Control Seizures or Tremors

If a pet is experiencing seizures or tremors, the veterinarian usually administers medication to help control these symptoms and prevent further complications.

Hospitalization for Severe Cases

In severe cases of THC poisoning, hospitalization is necessary. This allows for close monitoring of a pet’s condition, supportive care, and more intensive treatment if needed.

It’s important to remember that every case of THC poisoning is unique, and the treatment varies depending on the pet’s individual needs. Always seek veterinary care promptly if it is suspected that a pet has been exposed to THC.

Prognosis and Recovery

The good news is that with prompt and appropriate treatment, most pets recover fully from THC poisoning, suggesting that most toxicoses do not result in long-term ill effects (Amissah, R., et al., 2021). Recovery time varies depending on the amount of THC ingested and the severity of the symptoms.

Typical Recovery: Most pets bounce back within 1-2 days.

Severe Cases: These take 3 days or longer.

Prevention is the Best Medicine

The best way to protect pets from THC poisoning is to prevent exposure in the first place. Here are some tips:

Secure Storage

 Keep all cannabis products, especially edibles, locked away in a secure location where a pet does not have access to them.

Mindful Consumption

Be cautious about consuming cannabis around pets, especially through smoking or vaping, as secondhand exposure is harmful.

Educate Others

Spread awareness about the dangers of THC for pets among friends, family, and anyone who comes into contact with furry friends.

By taking these precautions, pet parents help ensure their pets stay safe and healthy in a world where cannabis is becoming increasingly prevalent.

Conclusion: Keeping Pets Safe

THC poisoning is a serious issue, but with awareness and responsible pet ownership, pet parents help minimize the risks. It’s crucial to remember that THC is toxic to pets, and even small amounts cause harm. The symptoms of THC poisoning vary greatly, from mild disorientation to severe neurological problems. If it is suspected that a pet has been exposed to THC, seek veterinary care immediately. Prevention is key, so be sure to practice secure storage of any cannabis products and be mindful of consumption habits around pets. Don’t hesitate to contact the pet’s veterinarian or a pet poison hotline right away if there are any concerns.

References

• Alavi, Z., Kasaei, R., Dehghanbanadaki, H., & Raee, P. (2022). Impact of cannabis on domestic animals: A comprehensive review. Veterinary Medicine and Science, 8(1), 265-273. https://doi.org/10.1002/vms3.609
• Amissah, R. Q., Vogt, N. A., Chen, C., Urban, K., & Khokhar, J. (2022). Prevalence and characteristics of cannabis-induced toxicoses in pets: Results from a survey of veterinarians in North America. PloS one, 17(4), e0261909. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0261909
• Becker, W., Nagarkatti, M., & Nagarkatti, P. (2017). Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) activation of cannabinoid receptors induces unique changes in the murine gut microbiome and associated induction of myeloid-derived suppressor cells and Th17 cells. The Journal of Immunology. https://doi.org/10.4049/jimmunol.198.supp.218.11.
• Benowitz, N., & Jones, R. (1977). Prolonged delta‐9‐tetrahydrocannabinol ingestion; Effects of sympathomimetic amines and autonomic blockades. Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics, 21. https://doi.org/10.1002/cpt1977213336.
• Casu, M., Pisu, C., Sanna, A., Tambaro, S., Spada, G., Mongeau, R., & Pani, L. (2005). Effect of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol on phosphorylated CREB in rat cerebellum: An immunohistochemical study. Brain Research, 1048, 41-47. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.brainres.2005.04.053.
• Fitzgerald, K. T., & Bronstein, A. C. (2013). Marijuana poisoning. Topics in Companion Animal Medicine, 28(1), 8-12. https://doi.org/10.1053/j.tcam.2013.03.004
• Gyles C. (2016). Marijuana for pets? The Canadian veterinary journal = La revue veterinaire canadienne, 57(12), 1215–1218.
• Hespel, A. M., McGrath, S., & Gruen, M. E. (2020). The impact of cannabidiol on canine health. Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 7, 583851. https://doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2020.583851
• Iglesias, L., Bedeschi, L., Aguiar, D., Asth, L., & Moreira, F. (2022). Effects of Δ9-THC and Type-1 Cannabinoid Receptor Agonists in the Elevated Plus Maze Test of Anxiety: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Cannabis and cannabinoid research. https://doi.org/10.1089/can.2022.0078.
• Janeczek, A., Zawadzki, M., Szpot, P., & Niedźwiedź, A. (2018). Marijuana intoxication in a cat. Acta Veterinaria Scandinavica, 60. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13028-018-0398-0.
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• Korczyn, A., & Eshel, Y. (1982). Mydriasis induced by tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in rats. Investigative ophthalmology & visual science, 22 3, 408-10.
• Zellner, T., Prasa, D., Färber, E., Hoffmann-Walbeck, P., Genser, D., & Eyer, F. (2019). The Use of Activated Charcoal to Treat Intoxications. Deutsches Arzteblatt international, 116 18, 311-317 . https://doi.org/10.3238/ARZTEBL.2019.0311.