Can Dogs or Cats Get High From Weed? 

What Pet Owners Need to Know

As cannabis becomes more common in homes across the country, one question is popping up more often than you’d think: can my pet get high?  Whether you're sparking up a joint or keeping a stash of edibles on the top shelf, it’s important to know that your furry companions can be affected by cannabis, and generally not in a good way.

Both dogs and cats process THC very differently than us humans and even small amounts can lead to serious reactions. And no, your pet isn’t just “vibing”. If your pet seems off after being around weed, it's likely not a coincidence. 

Let's break down how cannabis impacts dogs and cats:

• What symptoms to watch out for
• What to do in the event your pet gets exposed
• How to keep your stash safe from curious paws
• The health benefits behind pet safe CBD
  

Can Dogs Get High?

The short answer is yes but it’s not the fun kind of high. While you may be used to the effects of THC in your own body, dogs have a much more sensitive endocannabinoid system and even tiny amounts of THC can throw them for a loop. Studies indicate that dogs have especially high concentrations of CB1 receptors in regions like the cerebellum, brainstem, and basal ganglia, parts of the brain that involve balance and coordination (Silver, 2019). This helps explain why THC affects them more intensely than humans.  

The most common way dogs get exposed is by eating edibles or flower that’s been left out. However, second hand smoke can affect them too, especially in enclosed spaces (Beal, 2024). People sometimes “hotbox” or “fishbowl” a room to intensify their own high, but if a dog is in that same space, they’re getting an unintentional dose with no way to escape. For animals with smaller lungs and different body chemistry, this can be especially overwhelming and dangerous. 

When it comes to edibles, chocolates and products containing xylitol are even more harmful considering they combine THC with ingredients that are already highly toxic to dogs. Some more common household items that likely contain xylitol are sugar-free gum, some peanut butters or nut butters, protein or meal replacement bars, toothpaste and mouthwash, sugar-free drink powders, and certain jams/jellies labeled as “reduced sugar”. Always check ingredient labels before feeding your pet something new and keep all items that are not specifically designed for pets out of harm's reach. 

Signs your dog may be high or experiencing cannabis toxicity include:

• Stumbling or uncoordinated movement
• Dilated pupils
• Dribbling urine or incontinence
• Excessive drooling
• Vomiting
• Whining, whimpering, or seeming disoriented
• Increased sensitivity to light, sound, or touch
• Low heart rate or body temperature 

These symptoms usually appear within 30-60 minutes of exposure and can last for several hours or sometimes even longer with edibles. And while many dogs can recover with supportive care, high doses can cause serious complications, especially in smaller breeds and younger pups (Johnstone, 2023).

If you suspect your dog got into cannabis, don’t wait it out. Contact your vet or an emergency clinic right away. They’re not there to judge, they’re there to help. Veterinary Emergency Group (VEG) offers 24/7 phone consultations to speak with licensed veterinarians, so if you’re unsure what to do, you can call and speak to a professional immediately. 

What About Cats? Can Cats Get High Too?

While dogs often steal the spotlight when it comes to cannabis exposure, cats are not immune. Cats process THC differently, and their unique behaviors can sometimes put them at risk (Gollakner & Buzhardt, 2022). 

Cats tend to be more curious explorers, sniffing and pawing at things we wouldn’t expect. This means they might investigate leftover joints, vape devices, edibles, or even smoke lingering in the air. But because their bodies are smaller and their metabolism distinct, THC can cause very different symptoms (Gollakner & Buzhardt, 2022). 

Signs of cannabis exposure in cats include:

• Agitation or restlessness
• Excessive vocalization
• Dilated pupils
• Uncoordinated or wobbly movements
• Hypersensitivity to touch or noise
• Excessive drooling
• Lethargy or hiding

Cats may also be more sensitive to certain terpenes or and other aromatic compounds found in cannabis products, which can increase the risk of adverse reactions. This is similar to the way cats can react poorly to wellness essential oils like lavender or eucalyptus. The heightened sensitivity is likely because compared to humans and dogs, domestic cats carry significantly fewer functional UGT enzymes, especially UGT1A6 and UGT2B types. These enzymes are critical for metabolizing many compounds, including terpenes and essential oils, making cats more vulnerable to toxicity from such substances (Beusekom et al., 2014). 

Like dogs, cats should never be allowed to access cannabis products. Secondhand smoke also poses a risk for cats, particularly in confined or poorly ventilated areas.

If you notice any unusual behavior after your cat has been exposed to cannabis, it's crucial to contact a veterinary professional immediately.