Many cat owners wonder if their feline friends can get high from simply smelling weed. With cannabis becoming more common in households, it's important to understand how exposure might affect your cat. You want to keep your pet safe and avoid any accidental harm.

This article explores whether cats can get high from inhaling cannabis smoke or the scent of weed. We’ll also cover the symptoms to watch for, potential risks, and how to protect your cat from cannabis exposure. Understanding these facts helps you make informed choices about your pet’s environment.

How Cannabis Affects Cats

Cannabis contains compounds called cannabinoids, with THC being the main psychoactive ingredient. While humans may enjoy the effects, cats have a very different reaction to these substances. Their bodies process THC differently, and even small amounts can cause serious problems.

When cats inhale or ingest cannabis, they can experience toxic effects rather than a pleasurable high. This is because their liver metabolizes THC slower, leading to prolonged and intensified symptoms.

• Cats have a more sensitive endocannabinoid system, making them vulnerable to THC's toxic effects even at low doses.

• Unlike humans, cats do not develop a 'high' but instead show signs of poisoning or distress.

• Exposure to cannabis smoke or ingestion can lead to neurological and gastrointestinal symptoms in cats.

• THC toxicity in cats can sometimes require emergency veterinary care to prevent serious complications.

Understanding these effects is crucial for any cat owner using or storing cannabis products at home.

Can Cats Get High from Smelling Weed Smoke?

Many pet owners worry that their cats might get high just by smelling weed smoke in the air. While cats are curious and may sniff around, the risk of them getting high from passive smoke is generally low but not impossible.

Inhaling secondhand cannabis smoke exposes cats to THC, but usually in much smaller amounts than active consumption. However, repeated or heavy exposure can accumulate and cause mild to moderate symptoms.

• Passive inhalation of cannabis smoke can expose cats to THC, but the dose is usually too low to cause a true high.

• Repeated exposure to secondhand smoke may still lead to mild intoxication or respiratory irritation in cats.

• Smoke particles can irritate a cat’s sensitive respiratory system, causing coughing or sneezing.

• Enclosed spaces with heavy cannabis smoke increase the risk of THC exposure and possible adverse effects.

While occasional exposure to cannabis smoke is unlikely to cause a full high, it’s best to avoid smoking around your cat to prevent any health risks.

Signs Your Cat May Be Affected by Cannabis

If your cat has been exposed to cannabis smoke or ingested any cannabis product, you might notice certain symptoms. Recognizing these signs early can help you seek prompt veterinary care.

Cannabis toxicity symptoms in cats can vary depending on the amount and form of exposure. Some cats may show mild signs, while others could experience severe reactions.

• Unusual lethargy or excessive sleepiness, indicating central nervous system depression from THC exposure.

• Loss of coordination or difficulty walking, which shows neurological impairment in the cat.

• Excessive drooling or vomiting, signs of gastrointestinal upset caused by cannabis ingestion.

• Increased vocalization or agitation, which can indicate distress or discomfort from toxicity.

If you notice any of these symptoms after your cat’s exposure to cannabis, contact your veterinarian immediately for advice and treatment.

Risks of Cannabis Exposure for Cats

Cannabis exposure in cats carries several risks beyond just the possibility of getting high. The toxic effects can lead to serious health problems if not addressed quickly.

Because cats are small and sensitive, even small amounts of THC can cause significant harm. Some cannabis products also contain other harmful ingredients like chocolate or xylitol, which are toxic to cats.

• THC toxicity can cause severe neurological symptoms such as seizures or coma in extreme cases.

• Ingesting cannabis edibles may expose cats to dangerous additives like chocolate or sweeteners harmful to their health.

• Respiratory irritation from smoke can worsen existing conditions like asthma or bronchitis in cats.

• Delayed treatment of cannabis poisoning can lead to dehydration, hypothermia, or other complications requiring intensive care.

Keeping cannabis products out of reach and avoiding smoke exposure are essential steps to protect your cat’s health.

How to Protect Your Cat from Cannabis Exposure

Preventing cannabis exposure is the best way to keep your cat safe. Simple precautions can reduce the risk of accidental poisoning or respiratory problems.

Being mindful of where and how you use cannabis products helps create a safe environment for your feline friend. Proper storage and smoking habits are key.

• Store all cannabis products securely in locked cabinets or containers inaccessible to your cat.

• Avoid smoking cannabis indoors or in enclosed spaces where your cat spends time to reduce smoke exposure.

• Never allow your cat to ingest cannabis edibles, oils, or plant material, as these can be highly toxic.

• Inform all household members and visitors about the risks of cannabis exposure to pets to ensure consistent safety measures.

By following these steps, you minimize the chances of your cat encountering harmful cannabis substances.

What to Do If Your Cat Is Exposed to Cannabis

If you suspect your cat has been exposed to cannabis, quick action is important. Contact your veterinarian immediately for guidance on the best course of treatment.

Do not try to induce vomiting or give home remedies without professional advice, as this can worsen the situation. Veterinary care may include supportive treatments to help your cat recover safely.

• Call your veterinarian or an emergency animal poison control center as soon as you notice symptoms or suspect exposure.

• Provide information about the type of cannabis product, amount, and time of exposure to assist in treatment decisions.

• Follow veterinary instructions carefully, which may include monitoring, intravenous fluids, or medications to control symptoms.

• Keep your cat calm and comfortable during recovery, avoiding stress or excessive handling.

Prompt veterinary care greatly improves the chances of a full recovery after cannabis exposure.

Conclusion

Your cat cannot get high in the same way humans do from smelling weed, but exposure to cannabis smoke or ingestion can still cause harmful effects. Cats are sensitive to THC and may experience toxic symptoms rather than a pleasant high.

Preventing exposure by storing cannabis safely and avoiding smoking around your cat is the best way to protect their health. If you suspect your cat has been exposed, seek veterinary care immediately to ensure their safety and well-being.

FAQs

Can cats get high from just smelling weed smoke?

Cats usually do not get high from smelling weed smoke alone, but repeated or heavy exposure can cause mild intoxication or respiratory irritation.

What are the signs of cannabis poisoning in cats?

Signs include lethargy, loss of coordination, drooling, vomiting, agitation, and in severe cases, seizures or coma.

Is secondhand cannabis smoke harmful to cats?

Yes, secondhand smoke can irritate a cat’s lungs and expose them to THC, which may cause toxic effects.

What should I do if my cat eats cannabis?

Contact your veterinarian immediately and provide details about the product and amount ingested for proper treatment.

How can I keep my cat safe around cannabis?

Store cannabis securely, avoid smoking indoors, never give cannabis edibles to your cat, and educate household members about the risks.