Pets: Marijuana toxicity in pets can be very dangerous and needs prompt care

By Laura Higgins, DVM
Aspen Meadow Veterinary Specialists

With the increasing availability of medical marijuana along the Front Range, we are likely to see an increase in marijuana intoxication in our companion animals. Symptoms that may be seen at home range from neurologic depression, stumbling/weakness, vomiting, dribbling urine, drooling, seizures, and even coma.

Marijuana in any form is toxic to dogs and cats. "Edibles" like baked goods can be especially attractive to pets.

Marijuana toxicity is a problem in dogs and cats that requires prompt emergency veterinary care.

Prognosis for marijuana toxicity is good for patients who receive treatment. Treatment generally includes inducing vomiting if soon after ingestion, intravenous fluid administration, control of vomiting, heat support, and oral administration of activated charcoal to bind drug remaining in the gastro-intestinal tract. In severe cases, a patient’s breathing may become so impaired that the animal will need to be put in an oxygen cage or on a ventilator until her systems have cleared the drug.

Medical marijuana that is acquired through baked goods such as brownies, butter, chocolates, and cookies increases the likelihood that dogs and cats will show an interest in eating them. Keep in mind that chocolate is also toxic to pets. Seeking treatment in these cases becomes even more important. Also, high fat foods such as butter and baked goods may make a pet prone to an upset stomach and/or pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas).

If you are keeping marijuana or marijuana-infused edibles in your home, is imperative to always them safely out of reach from your household pets. If your pet happens to get into marijuana, it is essential that you contact a veterinarian immediately. Veterinary professionals are your best resource for knowing how to optimally handle these situations.

It is also extremely important to be honest with your veterinarian if you suspect your pet has ingested marijuana. Whether prescribed, or illegally obtained, the veterinarian only seeks to give your animal the best possible care and is not interested in passing judgment on the use of marijuana.

Laura Higgins is an emergency veterinarian at Aspen Meadow Veterinary Specialists in Longmont. AMVS is a 24-hour specialty and emergency facility providing internal medicine, surgery, physical rehabilitation and critical care services for pets. They are located in Longmont at 104 S. Main St. For more information, go to www.AspenMeadowVet.com.