Cannabis (Marijuana)
Cannabis sativa
Cannabis (Cannabis sativa), commonly known as marijuana, weed, or Bhang and Ganja in India, is a plant widely cultivated for industrial, therapeutic, ...
Symptoms to Watch For
Immediate First Aid
Contact a vet immediately. Symptoms can last several days.
Current risk level for cats based on ingestion severity.
Information provided by BioLens Veterinary Database. In case of emergency, always consult a professional.
In-Depth Botanical Safety Analysis
Cannabis (Cannabis sativa), commonly known as marijuana, weed, or Bhang and Ganja in India, is a plant widely cultivated for industrial, therapeutic, and recreational purposes. However, it is highly toxic to domestic pets. The psychoactive compound tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is a potent neurotoxin for dogs and cats. Pets have a significantly higher concentration of cannabinoid receptors in their brains compared to humans, making them hyper-sensitive to THC. Ingestion of flower buds, joints, or highly concentrated edibles (which often feature additional toxins like chocolate) triggers severe neurological depression. Typical symptoms include loss of balance or staggering (ataxia), extreme lethargy, slow heart rate (bradycardia), tremors, dilated pupils, heightened sensitivity to sound, and a highly characteristic sign: urinary incontinence (dribbling urine). Symptoms can appear within 30 minutes and last for several days. Keep your pet warm and calm in a quiet, dark space to prevent injury, and contact a veterinarian immediately for supportive fluid therapy. For general plant safety guides, visit our Pet Guard Hub.
Toxic Parts
Safe Alternatives
None listed.
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Specific Safety FAQs for Cannabis (Marijuana)
Is Cannabis toxic to cats?
Yes, Cannabis (marijuana) is highly toxic to cats. Ingestion of dried buds, leaves, or concentrated oils causes disorientation, lethargy, hypothermia, and slow heart rate.
Is Cannabis toxic to dogs?
Yes, Cannabis is highly toxic to dogs. Ingestion causes stumbling (ataxia), tremors, extreme sensitivity to sounds, and a classic symptom of dribbling urine.
What compound makes Cannabis toxic to pets?
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound in cannabis, binds to cannabinoid receptors in the brains of dogs and cats, which are far more numerous than in human brains, causing severe neurological effects.
What is the first aid for Cannabis poisoning in pets?
Keep your pet in a dark, quiet, warm room to minimize sensory stimulation and prevent injury. Contact a veterinarian immediately, especially if they consumed concentrated edibles (like weed brownies) which contain additional toxic ingredients like chocolate.