High Risk: The Real Deal with Cannabis and Your Pet

Content reviewed by Jennifer Sperry, DVM, Medical Director

Calling all pet-heads!

Nothing kills a vibe (or vet bill budget) faster than a curious cat or canine hijacking your stash. Let's be real—if your goods aren't locked up, your fur-covered sleuth will probably find them. And some treats are meant for human enjoyment only.

Before you find yourself faced with an unexpected vet emergency, Figo's got the tips you need to keep your sidekick safe on 4/20 — and every other day of the year.

The truth about pot and your pet

Let's just put it out there—your edibles could make your pet sick. Not trying to harsh your mellow, but that's the reality pet moms and dads are facing as cannabis and pets become an increasingly common concern.

Recreational marijuana use is legal in 24 states plus Washington DC and Guam as of November 2024, and honestly, we’ve got no problem with that! But as more states legalize the use of marijuana, accidental consumption by pets has soared.

Calls to the national Pet Poison Helpline for issues related to marijuana poisoning in dogs/cats increased 987% between 2017 and 2021, creating a real problem for pets and pet parents. With cannabis becoming more commonplace in homes, awareness is key—because being pro-legalization and being a responsible pet parent can absolutely go paw-in-hand. After all, we childproof our homes, right? Same concept applies to our soulful sidekicks.

When Fluffy finds your stash: Cannabis toxicity 101

Research conclusively demonstrates that yes, marijuana is harmful to pets. That chill sensation that many report after consuming cannabis? It's nothing like what your pet experiences. Animals process THC (the psychoactive component in cannabis) completely differently than humans do, making what's recreational for you potentially harmful for them.

“Because THC is toxic to pets, animals that are accidentally or intentionally exposed are not just high or stoned. They don’t simply need to ‘sleep it off’” states Courtney Chapin of Michigan State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine. “They should be taken to a veterinarian for an examination and/or for supportive care.”

Cannabis toxicity in pets is characterized by a range of symptoms that can be both disturbing and dangerous. While humans might enjoy the cerebral high, pets may experience it as a frightening, disorienting medical emergency.

Signs of cannabis toxicity in pets: 

• Disorientation and wobbliness: That "drunk walk" isn't cute—it's neurological distress 

• Urinary incontinence: Often described as "dribbling urine" 

• Dilated pupils: The wide-eyes aren't amazement—they're a physiological response to toxicity 

• Hypersensitivity: Jumpiness or sensitivity to touch, sound, or motion 

• Lethargy: Extreme drowsiness that can progress to unconsciousness 

• Vomiting: Your pet's body attempting to expel the toxin 

• Abnormal heart rate: Usually slowed (bradycardia), but sometimes racing 

• Tremors or seizures: In severe cases, especially with highly concentrated products 

The effects typically begin 30-90 minutes after ingestion but can last up to 72 hours due to how THC is stored in the body's fat deposits. Yes, your pet could be suffering for DAYS after accessing your stash.

Why dogs get high more often than cats

Ever notice how dogs will eat practically anything while your cat turns up their nose at a slightly wrong-textured treat? This discerning nature is partly why cannabis toxicity is reported more frequently in dogs than cats.

Dogs, being the lovable garbage disposals they are, are more likely to gobble up your edibles or cannabis plant material without hesitation. Their omnivorous curiosity makes them particularly vulnerable, especially to tempting THC-infused baked goods that might also contain chocolate or other toxic ingredients.

However, cats aren't immune—they can still be affected by secondhand smoke or by nibbling on plant material. Even ferrets, horses, and birds have been reported with cannabis toxicity. No pet is completely safe around marijuana.

What to do if your dog eats an edible (or your cat gets into your cannabis)

If you've caught Fido munching on your edibles or suspect your pet has been exposed to cannabis, do not—I repeat, DO NOT—try to "wait it out" or "see if they're fine." Every minute counts.

Immediate steps to take: 

1. Call your vet or emergency clinic immediately. Be honest about what happened—they don't care about your recreational choices; they care about helping your pet. 

2. Do NOT induce vomiting without professional guidance. Cannabis has anti-emetic properties (aka it can actually prevent vomiting) that can complicate this process. 

3. Keep your pet calm and comfortable during transport to the vet. 

4. Bring the packaging or product if possible, so vets know exactly what they're dealing with. 

Veterinary treatment typically includes: 

• IV fluids to help flush the toxin and prevent dehydration 

• Monitoring vital signs 

• Temperature regulation 

• Anti-nausea medication 

• Activated charcoal to absorb remaining toxins (in some cases) 

 Is any marijuana safe for dogs/cats? The CBD question

Short answer: No, marijuana itself is not safe for your pets. But let's dig deeper.

Here's where things get complicated. While inadvertent THC exposure can be toxic to pets, the non-psychoactive compound CBD (cannabidiol) is being researched for potential therapeutic uses in animals.

BUT—and this is a crucial but—the CBD pet product market is largely unregulated. Products marketed as "pet-safe CBD" may contain varying levels of THC, which can still cause toxicity. Without FDA approval and regulation, these products remain in a gray area at best and dangerous at worst.

If you're considering CBD for your pet: 

• Consult with your veterinarian first 

• Only consider products specifically tested and formulated for pets, and recommended by name by your veterinarian 

• Look for certificate of analysis (COA) documentation 

• Start with minimal doses and monitor closely 

• Never give human CBD products to pets 

Pet-safe marijuana alternatives

If you're looking for natural ways to help your pet with anxiety, pain, or other conditions, there are safer alternatives that don't involve cannabis: 

• L-theanine: A natural amino acid that can help with anxiety 

• Specific prescription medications from your veterinarian 

• Professional training and behavior modification for anxiety 

• Products like Feliway and Thunder Shirts for phobias or anxiety 

• Physical therapy and appropriate exercise for joint issues 

• Omega-3 fatty acids for inflammation 

• Acupuncture and massage from certified veterinary specialists 

Unlike cannabis products, these alternatives have been studied extensively in pets and can be used under proper veterinary supervision without the risk of toxicity.

Pet do’s and don’ts in the age of legal cannabis

Whether you're a recreational user, medical marijuana patient, or just have cannabis-using friends, pet-proofing is essential: 

• Store all cannabis products in pet-proof containers, ideally in locked cabinets 

• Keep edibles completely inaccessible to pets (they're doubly dangerous because of both THC and potential chocolate or xylitol content, plus they’re hidden in a deliciously tempting form) 

• Don't smoke around your pets or limit their exposure– secondhand smoke can cause toxicity too! Plus, smoke inhalation can potentially cause cancer in pets and exacerbate respiratory illnesses like asthma 

• Be aware of what falls on the floor during preparation or use 

• Inform house guests about the dangers to prevent them from inadvertently exposing your pets 

• Be especially vigilant during parties when people might be less careful 

• Consider keeping pets in a separate room when using cannabis 

• Never blow smoke in your pet's face – what seems like "sharing" is actually endangering them, and it’s not cute or funny 

 Keeping pets safe? That's how we roll

Accidents are a buzzkill, and no one understands that more than the team at Figo Pet Insurance. Not only can a pet insurance plan help if you find yourself facing an accidental pet ingestion, but it can help give you peace of mind should any other number of things go wrong on the wild ride that is pet parenthood. Considering the average emergency vet visit can cost anywhere from $300-$1000+, it’s smart to be prepared with a financial safety net.

And because we’re all human (and pets don’t always take schedules into account when they go on a counter surfing spree), all Figo plans come with 24/7 Live Vet access, so you can chat with licensed veterinary professionals via text - anytime, anywhere, within seconds and at no cost to you.

Bottom line: Respect the risk

Cannabis isn't inherently bad—it's a plant with legitimate human medical and recreational uses in places where it's legal. But your decision to use it comes with the responsibility to protect the animals in your care who cannot make informed choices for themselves.

The rising tide of pet cannabis poisonings is a preventable crisis. It simply requires pet owners to be honest about the risks and diligent about preventing exposure. Your high should never come at the cost of your pet's health.

Remember: When in doubt, keep your stash locked up tight and completely out of reach. Your pet's safety depends on it!

This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you suspect your pet has ingested cannabis or any toxic substance, contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital immediately.

Lizz Caputo is the Manager of Content Strategy at Figo, animal enthusiast, and owner of a rescued senior American Bully. Her hobbies include checking out new restaurants in her area, boxing, and petting dogs of all shapes and sizes.