By Katherine Pretorius
For many of us, pets are more than just animals—they’re our furry family members. And just like you’d keep a stash out of reach from curious kids, it’s important to think about your pets when cannabis is part of your lifestyle. It doesn’t matter if you’re lighting up, munching on edibles, or using CBD oil; your dog, cat, or even your parrot is sharing that space with you—and they can be affected more than you think.
So, what’s the deal with weed and pets? Here’s everything you need to know to keep your fur babies safe while enjoying your green time.
THC and Pets: A Bad Combo
Let’s get this out of the way first: THC is not safe for pets.
THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis, can be highly toxic to animals. Pets—especially dogs—have more cannabinoid receptors in their brains than humans do, making them highly sensitive to even small amounts of weed. A nibble of a THC-laced brownie or a lungful of smoke can lead to distressing symptoms and an emergency trip to the vet.
Unlike humans, pets can’t process THC the same way. Their bodies react strongly, and the effects can last much longer—sometimes up to 72 hours, depending on how much they’ve been exposed to.
How Pets Get Exposed (Even When You’re Careful)
Accidents can happen in the blink of an eye, and even the most careful pet owner might slip up. Here are the most common ways pets encounter cannabis:
- Edibles: Brownies, gummies, cookies—these smell like treats to a dog or cat. Edibles are especially dangerous due to other ingredients like chocolate or xylitol (an artificial sweetener), which are toxic on their own.
- Leftover joints or ash: Ashtrays left at paw level are basically an open invitation.
- Spilled oils or concentrates: Pets may lick up oil from a dropper or spilt concentrate from a surface.
- Secondhand smoke: Hotbox a room, and your pet’s lungs are in the same airspace. Small pets, birds, and brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds like bulldogs or pugs are especially vulnerable.
Even outdoor pets can be exposed if they dig through garbage or chew on discarded cannabis plant matter.
What to Look Out For: Signs of Cannabis Toxicity
If your pet is exposed to cannabis, time matters. Look for signs that something’s off:
- Lethargy or excessive sleepiness
- Lack of coordination or “drunken” walking
- Vomiting or drooling
- Tremors or muscle twitching
- Whining, restlessness, or vocalising
- Unusual stillness or staring
- Dilated pupils or glassy eyes
- Incontinence or loss of bladder control
- Low body temperature or slowed heart rate
The severity of symptoms depends on your pet’s size, what form they ingested, and how much they consumed. A small dog who eats an edible may show symptoms within 30 minutes, whereas a larger pet might take a little longer.
TIP BOX: Quick Safety Tips for Pet Owners
✅ Lock up your stash
Store weed, edibles, and accessories in sealed containers high off the ground.
✅ Smoke smart
If you’re lighting up, make sure there’s airflow or step outside.
✅ Clean up immediately
Ash, roaches, and leftovers shouldn’t hang around. Pets are nosy.
✅ Label oils and tinctures
Keep pet CBD clearly separated from your own stash to avoid mix-ups.
✅ Know your vet’s emergency line
Time is critical. Have contact numbers saved and ready.
The CBD Conversation
CBD is often promoted as a natural remedy for pets with anxiety, arthritis, or chronic pain—and there’s some early research and anecdotal evidence to back that up. But not all CBD is made equal, and not all of it is safe for pets
If you’re thinking of using CBD for your pet:
Only buy CBD products made specifically for pets
Avoid products with any THC
Start with a very low dose and monitor reactions
Choose products that offer clear lab results and dosage info
Always speak to your vet before introducing it
Some South African pet stores and vets now stock CBD ranges formulated for pets. These include calming oils for anxious pups during thunderstorms or joint relief drops for senior dogs. Just make sure the products are vet-approved and locally regulated where possible.
Real Talk: What to Do in an Emergency
If your pet accidentally consumes cannabis:
- Stay calm, but act fast
- Contact your vet immediately
- Be honest about what your pet ingested—vets don’t judge
- Avoid at-home remedies like inducing vomiting unless advised
- Keep them warm and comfortable while waiting for professional help
Your vet might administer activated charcoal, provide IV fluids, or use medication to stabilise your pet. Most animals recover fully with proper treatment, but the sooner you act, the better the outcome.
Being a responsible cannabis user means looking out for everyone in your home—including the four-legged kind. Weed may help you chill out, but it could be a nightmare for your pets. With a few simple precautions and an extra layer of awareness, you can keep your high times safe, happy, and drama-free.
Because when tails are wagging and purrs are flowing, you know everyone’s having a good time—even if they’re not passing the joint.