Marijuana is dangerous to cats, so you should exercise caution when using it around them.

Millions of people will be celebrating 4/20, especially during stressful times like the COVID-19 crisis. If you intend to participate this year, you should know the reasons why marijuana is dangerous to cats and how you can protect them.

Marijuana Is NOT Like Catnip

While some may joke that marijuana is just catnip for humans, it’s still a toxin for cats. Inhalation or ingestion of marijuana has negative effects on cats, up to and including seizures, coma, and (in rare instances) death.

Second-hand smoke has health effects on cats just the same as it does for humans. Cats with asthma, in particular, are susceptible to increased health problems when exposed to marijuana and tobacco smoke.

Symptoms Of Marijuana Ingestion/Inhalation In Cats

The ASPCA lists symptoms of marijuana toxicity that include “prolonged depression, vomiting, incoordination [sic], sleepiness or excitation, hypersalivation [sic], dilated pupils, low blood pressure, low body temperature, seizure, coma, death (rare)”.

What Causes Marijuana Toxicity In Cats?

Marijuana contains THC, also known as Delta-9-THC and Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol. This is the drug element of marijuana, the stuff that gives that warm and fuzzy ‘high’ feeling. Since medical-grade cannabis contains more THC than regular cannabis, it has been found to be more fatal to pets.

Depending on age, size, and health conditions, some cats may be more susceptible to marijuana than others.

What To Do If You Cat Ingests Or Inhales Marijuana

Since marijuana is dangerous to cats and requires specific treatment, it is important to be honest with your vet. If you suspect your cat has inhaled or ingested marijuana, take them to the vet immediately.

It is crucial that you disclose the method of ingestion because there are different methods of treatment for inhalation versus ingestion. If you aren’t sure which it is, you should still tell your vet that the cat has been exposed to marijuana. Your cat’s life is more important than avoiding jail time or fines.

Why CBD Oil Is Safe For Cats

CBD (cannabidiol) oil is also from the cannabis plant, but it does not contain THC. This non-psychoactive compound uses a particular extraction process that separates it from the THC in the cannabis plant. Some CBD oils are made from hemp plants that contain much lower levels of THC than the average cannabis plant.

Since THC is the element in cannabis that causes problems for cats, CBD oil is safe to use in recommended dosages. Giving a cat too much CBD oil can have negative side effects too, but they won’t be quite as deadly as with THC.

If you decide to purchase CBD oil for your pet, make sure that it is a reputable brand. We use HolistaPet for our cats, but you can check out these reviews of other pet-safe brands.

Keep Your Cats Safe During 4/20

Marijuana is dangerous to cats, that much is certain. If you want to keep your cat safe, use these tips:

• Do not smoke pot around your cat; secondhand smoke is no joke
• Do not leave marijuana edibles (such as gummies, jellies) where your cat can get them
• Do not leave baggies or joints where your cat can get them
• Watch for signs of marijuana poisoning in pets and call the Pet Poison Hotline if you suspect your pet has ingested or inhaled marijuana (and TAKE THEM TO THE VET!)

Have a safe and happy 4/20. Smoke responsibly.