With cannabis products becoming more accessible in South Africa, many pet owners are asking if using the products will be safe for their pets. Whether it’s a CBD chew, a cannabis oil, or a case of a dog raiding someone’s stash—cannabis and pets can be a tricky and potentially dangerous combination.
Here’s what you need to know to keep your furry companions safe and well-informed when it comes to cannabis and pets.
What’s the Difference Between Cannabis products: CBD vs THC?
- CBD (cannabidiol) is the non-psychoactive component of cannabis and is sometimes marketed for pets for pain, anxiety, or inflammation.
- THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the psychoactive compound that causes a “high” and is toxic to pets, even in small amounts.
Most cannabis toxicity cases in dogs and cats come from ingesting human products containing THC, either accidentally or through well-meaning but misinformed owners.
Is CBD Safe for Pets?
While there’s growing interest in CBD for pets, the research is still limited. Some preliminary studies show promise for managing pain or seizures, but:
- Products are not well-regulated in South Africa
- Dosing is unclear and varies widely
- Some “CBD” products may contain harmful levels of THC
- Some CBD products may interfere with other medications that your pet may be using
- Always speak to your vet before giving your pet any cannabis-related product
At Cottage Vet Clinic, we do not currently recommend CBD unless under veterinary guidance and with properly tested, veterinary-specific products.
Signs of Cannabis Toxicity in Pets
If your dog or cat has ingested cannabis (especially THC-containing products), you may see:
- Drowsiness or disorientation
- Dilated pupils
- Wobbly walking or inability to stand
- Drooling
- Vomiting
- Urinary incontinence
- Twitching or tremors
- Low heart rate or temperature
- Seizures (in severe cases)
These signs can develop within minutes to a few hours.
What to Do If Your Pet Is Exposed to Cannabis
If you suspect your pet has ingested cannabis:
- Call your vet immediately – honesty is essential, especially if it’s an accidental exposure. Please don’t feel embarrassed about telling us if your pet may have had access to cannabis related products. The sooner we know, the sooner we can help.
- Don’t try to induce vomiting at home – it may do more harm than good.
- Keep your pet calm and safe while you prepare to bring them in.
Most pets recover fully with prompt veterinary care, but high doses can be life-threatening—especially for small dogs or cats.
Keeping Pets Safe
- Store all cannabis products securely, just like you would with medications.
- Never assume that a “natural” product is safe for pets.
- Keep edibles, oils, and vape pens well out of reach.
- Be mindful of parts of the cannabis plant that you may discard. It is highly palatable to dogs and they have been known to eat parts of the plant out of dustbins or areas where it has been thrown away.
- If you’re using cannabis yourself, be mindful of smoke exposure and product residue.
In Summary
Cannabis and pets don’t mix well—especially when THC is involved. If you’re considering CBD as a treatment for your pet, always consult your vet first. And if there’s ever accidental exposure, act quickly and honestly so your pet gets the best possible care.
