The Signs of a Toxic THC or Marijuana Reaction in Pets

Medical marijuana is now legal in 33 states across the US, and recreational use is legal in 11 states for adults over 21. 

Whilst this is great news for people who enjoy the benefits of marijuana, for pets, it can be a problem. With marijuana becoming more available in the household, what happens if your pet gets their paws on it?

Unlike CBD, marijuana can be toxic to your furry friends. But, if you know the signs of a reaction, you might be able to help them before its too late.

Find out the symptoms of a toxic marijuana reaction in your pets to make sure you can keep them safe.

Why is Marijuana Toxic to Pets?

In dogs, cats, and other furry friends, it only takes a little amount of marijuana to poison them. This is because they have a lot more cannabinoid receptors in their brain than we do. When they ingest marijuana, these receptors become overwhelmed and their body can’t handle it.

The toxic substance in marijuana is THC. This is actually the substance that gives humans the high that’s associated with marijuana. For pets, this same substance can be lethal. 

There are plenty of ways pets can ingest marijuana. Some animals, particularly dogs, might eat leftover joints or buds. They may also eat your edibles, such as marijuana-infused brownies or gummies. You should also be careful with second-hand smoke, which could have a bad effect on your pet. 

Signs of a THC or Marijuana Reaction

If you think your pet might have ingested marijuana or a THC product, you’ll probably start seeing some signs of a reaction. These will be more severe in smaller pets, but larger animals can also have some very negative symptoms.

Take a look at some of the signs so you know what to look out for:

  • Fatigue or lethargy 
  • Dilated pupils
  • A dazed, confused expression
  • Vomiting
  • Finding it difficult to walk
  • Decreased or increased heart rate
  • Body temperature changes
  • Incontinence
  • Tremors and seizures
  • Whining, crying, and general stress

If your pet starts showing any of these symptoms and you think they’ve eaten marijuana, you should take them to a vet immediately. The quicker you get them help, the more likely they are to survive.

How Marijuana Poisoning is Treated

There isn’t a cure for marijuana poisoning, but a vet can help their chances of recovery. Your vet may regulate your pet’s temperature, give them anti-vomiting medicine to prevent fluid loss, and monitor their heart rate.

Your vet may also give your pet activated charcoal. This can bind the toxins in the stomach of the animal so that it can’t be absorbed into the body. 

With the right care, your pet should make a full recovery, but you need to act quickly! You need to let your vet know if your pet has consumed marijuana, too. It’s important they’re aware of the problem so that they can treat them quickly and properly.

Does CBD Oil Contain THC?

A lot of people become confused when CBD and THC are mentioned. Both come from cannabis plants and are very similar, so it’s not a surprise there’s some confusion! But the two substances are very different.

Whilst CBD can contain low levels of THC, legally it must be less than 0.3 percent. Mile High Pawducts only ever uses full spectrum CBD that contains even less than that.

Our CBD creates what’s known as the entourage effect. Because it’s unaltered and contains very little THC, it’s benefits are much more prominent than in altered and processed oils. It also means its safe for your pets and won’t be toxic as long as you use it properly. 

Our CBD is also fully lab tested by a third party, ensuring that it’s completely safe from unbiased testers. So, if you’re wondering Can I give CBD oil to my cat, dog, or another furry friend? You definitely can as long as it’s from Mile High Pawducts!

Pet CBD Dosage Guidance

When giving your pet CBD, you need to make sure you give them the right amount. The Mile High Pawducts have worked with vets to ensure you have an easily accessible CBD dosage guide telling you how much you can safely give your animals. You’ll also be given an accurate dropper that’s marked for easy measuring.  

If you’re wondering how much CBD oil should I give my dog or cat? enter their information into the guide’s calculator for precise dosage. For example, a 45-pound dog who only needs a low dose should take 2.25mg of oil in the morning and in the evening. 

It’s also a good idea to talk to your vet before you start giving your pet CBD oil. They can help you decide whether it’s the right decision for your pet and monitor their response to it. CBD oil can have a lot of benefits for our furry friends, but only when it’s used properly!

Browse Our CBD Products

Now you know that CBD with trace amounts of THC isn’t toxic, why not check out our products? For pets with chronic pain, anxiety, or other problems, CBD could be an easy way to help them.

For more information on our products and how to use them safely, please get in touch with our team. We can help you choose the right CBD oil for your pet and make sure you’re keeping your furry friend happy, healthy, and safe.

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