Are Cannabis and CBD safe for Animals?

Cannabis is not only toxic but in higher doses, it can be fatal to animals. It doesn’t matter if we intentionally harm them or not. Smoking or using cannabis near our pets carries risks. They can easily become poisoned by inhaling secondhand smoke, eating food, or any form of cannabis – special care is required when pets are near cannabis.

THC, which is the most abundant psychoactive cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant, is considered a component of cannabis that is toxic to animals. Obviously, an animal’s weight, health, and age all affect the effects that cannabis can have on them, but cannabis is generally very dangerous.

According to the VCA, dogs have more cannabinoid receptors like CB1 and CB2 in their brains than humans. These receptors can be found on the surface of cells in the body. While CB2 is believed to regulate inflammation, CB1, which is concentrated in the brain, central nervous system, and several other organs, appears to be responsible for most of the effects of cannabis.

Regardless of the amount of THC ingested by animals, the consequences can be more dramatic and potentially more toxic than ours. What’s more, as mentioned, dogs have more cannabinoid receptors, so it’s easier for them to overdose, with fatal consequences.

Another problem can have serious consequences for animals: only humans have a prefrontal cortex. It is found in the brain and promotes rational thinking. Basically, if people smoke cannabis, they can figure out what’s going on. On the other hand, animals will be frightened and alarmed as they will not understand why they cannot move, run, or even stand still.

Dogs and cats poisoned with marijuana can show clinical signs within minutes or hours, according to the Pet Poison Health Line. Therefore, they have compiled a list of overdose symptoms that every pet owner should be aware of, including dazed expression, glazed eyes, coordination, slow reaction times and urine leaks, vomiting, drooling, changes in heart rate, vocalization, neurological stimulation. , hyperactivity or even coma. In short, animals don’t find using cannabis fun, and it can seriously harm them.

However, depending on further research, THC-removed cannabis extracts may help alleviate certain conditions in animals. It is important to always discuss with your veterinarian before giving your pet any non-prescription medications.