Cat Ate Marijuana: What to Do, Symptoms, and When to Seek Care

If your cat ate marijuana or was exposed to cannabis products, it’s important to take it seriously. Cats are more sensitive to THC than humans, and even small amounts can cause noticeable symptoms.

Exposure can happen through edibles, smoke, oils, or dried plant material.

What to Do If Your Cat Ate Marijuana

If you think your cat has been exposed, take these steps:

• Remove any remaining substance so your cat cannot ingest more
• Identify what was consumed (edible, plant, oil, etc.)
• Estimate how much your cat may have been exposed to
• Keep your cat in a safe, quiet space
• Call a veterinarian for guidance

Call our veterinary team now: (757) 425-2011

Is Marijuana Toxic to Cats?

Marijuana (THC) is toxic to cats and can affect their nervous system. Edibles are especially concerning because they may also contain chocolate, xylitol, or other harmful ingredients.

Even secondhand exposure, such as inhaling smoke, can cause symptoms.

Symptoms of Marijuana Toxicity in Cats

Symptoms can appear within 30 minutes to a few hours. Common signs include:

• Lethargy or unusual sedation
• Disorientation or unsteady walking
• Dilated pupils
• Drooling
• Vomiting
• Increased sensitivity to sound or touch
• Tremors
• Urinary incontinence

In more severe cases, cats may become very depressed or unresponsive.

When Should You Call a Veterinarian?

You should contact a veterinarian if:

• Your cat was exposed to marijuana in any form
• Your cat ate an edible product
• Your cat is showing any symptoms
• You are unsure how much was ingested

If your cat is very lethargic, unresponsive, or having tremors, seek care immediately.

How We Treat Marijuana Toxicity

At Hilltop Veterinary Clinic, treatment focuses on supporting your cat until the effects wear off.

Treatment may include:

• Inducing vomiting if ingestion was recent
• Activated charcoal to reduce absorption
• IV fluids for hydration and support
• Temperature and heart rate monitoring
• Medications to control nausea or agitation

Most cats recover with supportive care, but monitoring is important.

When in Doubt, Give Us a Call

Marijuana exposure can be scary, but with prompt care, most cats recover well. If you’re unsure, it’s always best to have your cat evaluated. Hilltop Veterinary Clinic serves pets and families in Virginia Beach and surrounding areas.