Can Pot Kill Cats from Eating the Plant?

Pot plants, commonly known as marijuana or cannabis plants, have been gaining a lot of interest in recent times due to their medicinal properties. The plants contain various active compounds that have shown efficacy in treating a variety of medical conditions such as chronic pain, seizures, and anxiety. However, as much as these plants are beneficial to humans, they can be dangerous when consumed by cats, and here is why.

The Dangers of Marijuana to Cats

Unlike humans who can consume cannabis without any severe consequences, cats are highly susceptible to the toxic effects of these plants. Marijuana contains a psychoactive compound known as delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol(THC), which is responsible for the plant's mind-altering effects. When a cat ingests marijuana, THC gets into their bloodstream and can cause various severe health problems.

Some of the signs of marijuana toxicity in cats include low blood pressure, dilated pupils, and a slow heart rate. Additionally, cats can become uncoordinated, disoriented, and they may even lose consciousness. If they consume large amounts of the plant, the toxicity can be fatal due to respiratory failure, coma, or even death.

The Signs that Suggest Your Cat has Ingested Pot

If you are a cat owner and usually have pot plants in your home, you must keep an eye on your pet's behavior as they may end up consuming the plant. Some of the signs that may suggest your cat ingested pot include:

Loss of appetite

Lethargy

Vomiting

Diarrhea

Inability to walk straight

Agitation

Seizures

If the above symptoms persist even after you have removed the plants from your cats' reach, seek immediate veterinary attention.

The Risks of Accidental Marijuana Ingestion in Cats

As a pet owner, the last thing you want is for your cat to consume an addictive drug such as marijuana. When this happens, your cat may become addicted, which will lead to a myriad of behavioral changes. For instance, your cat may start obsessing over the plant, and they may even show signs of withdrawal when they are not near the plant.

Furthermore, marijuana consumption in cats can lead to long-term health problems such as liver and kidney damage, cancer, and breathing difficulties. In worst-case scenarios, marijuana consumption can be fatal.

Preventing Marijuana Consumption in Cats

As a cat owner, it is your responsibility to ensure that your cat is not exposed to toxic substances such as marijuana. You can do this by:

Keeping your pot plants out of your cat's reach

Storing any edibles that contain marijuana securely. Ingesting these treats can have serious effects on your pet.

Keeping an eye on your cat's behavior especially if you have a pot plant in the house

Seeking veterinary attention if you suspect that your cat may have consumed marijuana.

Conclusion

Cannabis plants have numerous medicinal benefits for humans, but they are highly toxic to cats. Simply put, pot can kill cats from eating the plant. If you are a cat owner and have pot plants in your home or have edibles containing marijuana, it is essential to take the necessary measures to ensure that your pet is safe. Remember to seek immediate veterinary attention should you notice any unusual signs in your cat, as this may be the difference between life and death for your feline friend.