The term “cannabis” includes marijuana and hemp products. “Marijuana” refers to all parts of the Cannabis plant, including the flowering portion, leaves, seeds, extracted resin, and any products derived from these parts. Marijuana often contains high levels of compounds called cannabinoids. The two main cannabinoids are tetrahydrocannabinols (THC) and cannabidiols (CBD). THC is a psychoactive compound that affects brain function and is what gives you the “high”. Recreational marijuana often contains high levels of THC. CBD is a non-psychoactive compound and is found in higher levels in medical marijuana. Cannabis products come in a variety of forms, including edible products (e.g. candy, cookies), plant products (e.g. leaves, cigarettes), and oil/butter.

Products marketed for pets often report they are made from hemp and may be labeled as “cannabis” rather than “marijuana”. There is very little research on the effects of cannabis on pets for safety, appropriate dosage, and effectiveness. There is currently no way to guarantee the purity of the ingredients in cannabis products, as there is no government organization overseeing the quality control of these products. Although cannabis pet products may claim to have health benefits for your pet, this claim has not been tested or verified by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It is important to note also that hemp is not approved by the FDA for use as an ingredient in animal food, products or pharmaceuticals.

Dogs and cats may be more sensitive to the effects of cannabis than people, and even small amounts can be enough for pets to develop possibly life-threatening toxicity. Pets commonly develop toxicity from ingestion of cannabis or cannabis products, but secondhand smoke inhalation can also be harmful. THC can change how the liver works. Because the liver plays an important role in processing food and medications, THC exposure may alter the effects of other important medications or supplements pets are taking.

FDA is aware of some cannabis products being marketed as animal health products. We want to stress that FDA has not approved cannabis for any use in animals, and the agency cannot ensure the safety or effectiveness of these products. For these reasons, FDA cautions pet-owners against the use of such products and recommends that you talk with your veterinarian about appropriate treatment options for your pet.

Signs that your pet may be suffering adverse effects from ingesting cannabis may include lethargy, depression, heavy drooling, vomiting, agitation, tremors, and convulsions.

If you have concerns that your pet is suffering adverse effects from ingesting cannabis or any substance containing cannabis, consult your veterinarian, local animal emergency hospital or an animal poison control center immediately.

While the agency is aware of reports of pets consuming various forms of cannabis, to date, FDA has not directly received any reports of adverse events associated with animals given cannabis products. However, adverse events from accidental ingestion are well-documented in scientific literature. If you feel your animal has suffered from ingesting cannabis, we encourage you to report the adverse event to the FDA. Please visit Reporting Information about Animal Drugs and Devices to learn more about how to report an adverse event related to an animal drug or for how to report an adverse event or problem with a pet food.

All ingredients in animal food must be the subject of an approved food additive petition or generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for their intended use in the intended species. If an animal food contains an ingredient that is not the subject of an approved food additive petition or GRAS for its intended use in the intended species, that animal food would be adulterated under section 402(a)(2)(C)(i) of the FD&C Act [21 U.S.C. § 342(a)(2)(C)(i)]. In coordination with state feed control officials, CVM also recognizes ingredients listed in the Official Publication (OP) of the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) as being acceptable for use in animal food. At this time, there are no approved food additive petitions or ingredient definitions listed in the AAFCO OP for any substances derived from hemp, and we are unaware of any GRAS conclusions regarding the use of any substances derived from hemp in animal food.

With respect to products labeled to contain "hemp" that may also contain THC or CBD, as mentioned above it is a prohibited act under section 301(ll) of the FD&C Act to introduce or deliver for introduction into interstate commerce any animal food to which THC or CBD has been added.

No. In the United States, it is illegal for veterinarians to prescribe cannabis or cannabis products to pets. Federal law prohibits veterinarians from possessing, administering, dispensing, or prescribing cannabis and related products. Veterinarians who are prescribing cannabis products for pets are also in violation of California state law. While California Proposition 64 legalized cannabis use for individuals 21 or older, there is no legislation allowing individuals to give cannabis products to pets. Federal law still considers marijuana a Schedule 1 controlled substance, meaning it is illegal, has a high potential for abuse, and has no currently accepted medical use in the United States, for humans or animals.

The most common signs of cannabis toxicosis include: lack of balance and coordination, disorientation, slow heart rate, dilated pupils, sensitivity to light and sound, and dribbling urine. Other signs of cannabis toxicity may include: excessive drooling, seizures, vomiting, and lethargy.

If your pet ingested cannabis or cannabis products, or if your pet is showing signs of cannabis toxicosis, contact your veterinarian right away. In situations of cannabis toxicity, it is important to take your pet to a veterinary hospital immediately. Please be honest with your veterinarian about what cannabis products your pet has been exposed to or has ingested. Failure to do so can make it difficult to correctly diagnose your pet and will delay appropriate treatment.