Cannabis (THC) in Pets

Dogs are very sensitive to THC: Merck reports signs from 0.3–0.5 mg/kg. Convert edible gummies to mg/kg, check for chocolate or xylitol, and see what to expect over 24 hours.

What It Is

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the main psychoactive compound in cannabis. Dogs have many cannabinoid receptors in the brain and are much more sensitive than people. Poisoning is rarely fatal on its own, but edibles often contain chocolate, xylitol or raisins too.

Where Pets Come Across It

Edibles such as gummies, chocolate and baked goods, concentrates and oils, dried flower, joint ends, and occasionally faeces from people who use cannabis. Cases have risen sharply where cannabis is legal.

Which Animals Are Affected

Dogs most often. Cats and other pets can also be affected.

Published Toxic Dose

According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, dogs can develop mild signs from THC doses as low as 0.3–0.5 mg/kg, with moderate signs above 2–3 mg/kg. Edibles are labelled by THC content; a single serving in many legal markets is 5–10 mg, and concentrates can be 60–90% THC by weight.

Cannabis (THC) Dose Exposure Calculator

Enter your pet's weight and estimated quantity missing to compare against veterinary literature thresholds.

Affected Species Dog (Canine) Cat (Feline)

Pet Body Weight

kg lb

Estimated Total THC Ingested (mg) Check packaging: standard edibles often state mg of THC per gummy or square.

Calculating...

Signs and How Soon They Appear

Signs usually start within 30 to 90 minutes and can last 24 hours or longer with edibles: wobbliness, dribbling urine, sensitivity to sound and touch, dilated pupils, a slow heart rate, drowsiness alternating with agitation, and vomiting. Severe cases can cause low body temperature and collapse.

What to Do Right Now

Call a vet or poison line and be honest about what was eaten; vets ask only to treat your pet safely. Check the edible's label for THC per piece and for chocolate or xylitol. Keep your pet somewhere quiet and warm, and do not induce vomiting at home, because sedated pets can inhale vomit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources and References

• Merck Veterinary Manual: THC Toxicosis in Dogs and Cats
• Pet Poison Helpline: Marijuana

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