MARIJUANA (CANNABIS/THC) TOXICITY IN DOGS/CATS
WHAT THIS SYMPTOM USUALLY MEANS
Pets—especially dogs—are highly sensitive to THC. Ingestion of edibles, plant material, or vape cartridges can cause neurological depression, wobbliness, dribbling urine, tremors, or seizures. CBD-only products are generally safer but can be contaminated with THC.
MOST COMMON CAUSES
MILD OR SELF-LIMITING CAUSES
• Small exposures to low-THC material
• Mild wobbliness
MEDICAL CAUSES
• Edible ingestion (dangerous due to chocolate or xylitol included)
• THC intoxication causing incoordination
• Tremors, vomiting
EMERGENCY CAUSES
• Seizures
• Coma-like depression
• Vomiting chocolate edibles
• Ingestion of THC + xylitol combo
• Extreme agitation
RED FLAGS
• Collapse
• Tremors or seizures
• Continuous vomiting
• Extremely slow or very rapid heart rate
If you’re unsure, treat it as urgent.
AT-HOME CARE YOU CAN START NOW
• Seek veterinary care
• Bring packaging if possible
• Keep pet calm and warm
These steps do not replace a veterinary exam if symptoms continue or worsen.
WHAT A VETERINARIAN WILL CHECK
• Blood sugar
• Heart rate/rhythm
• Induce vomiting only if safe
• IV fluids
• Temperature support
• Anti-seizure medication if needed
• Intralipid therapy for severe cases
MOST LIKELY DIAGNOSES
• THC toxicity
• Chocolate toxicity (if edible)
• Xylitol toxicity (if sugar-free edible)