Cannabis and my pet
If you are an attentive pet owner and you are interested in the recreational or medicinal use of cannabis, this article is for you!
In many cases, dogs and cats can suffer from many of the same conditions as humans such as arthritis, atopic dermatitis, cancer and its side effects, epilepsy, acute or chronic pain, behavioral problems (anxiety, aggression, fear), glaucoma, and many more.
There is information suggesting that these conditions in animals could be treated with cannabis as they are in human medicine. [2]
When we know the multiple benefits that cannabis offers to help with some of these specific conditions and improve our health and quality of life, it is completely natural to wonder if cannabis has the same effects and benefits for our animal friends.
In this article we are going to answer some of the most frequently asked questions we have received about cannabis and pets:
1. Does my pet have an endocannabinoid system?
Yes!
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is present in all animals that have a spinal column, like your dog or cat, so your pet does have an endocannabinoid system and the same CB1 and CB2 receptors as we do. [3] Therefore they could benefit from the medicinal properties of this wonderful plant, although not in the same way as us humans.
Is it dangerous to give cannabis to my pet?
Unlike humans, animals can become intoxicated by cannabis. If cannabis is present in the presence of pets, it is of utmost importance to keep it out of their reach and to be careful if you consume cannabis around them.
We know that dogs have a greater number of cannabinoid receptors in the brain compared to humans and it has been suggested that they may be more susceptible than humans to the toxic effects of cannabis. [4] In one study it was observed that a given dose of THC in humans caused an elevation in heart rate, while that same dose in animals caused the opposite effect: decreased heart rate and blood pressure. [5]
What should I do if my pet accidentally ingests cannabis?
If your pet accidentally ingests cannabis, whether in the form of edibles, secondhand smoke, or the plant itself, it is important to watch for signs of intoxication.
The most common signs of cannabis intoxication in pets include: sedation, dilated pupils, glassy eyes, dazed expression, difficulty walking and vomiting.
Signs of intoxication can be seen from 5 minutes to 12 hours after the animal was exposed to cannabis. Signs can last from 30 minutes to several days, depending on the dose ingested. [1] In case of any symptoms, it is imperative that you take the animal to the veterinarian for immediate treatment.
Can cannabis improve my pet's health and quality of life?
Information on the effects of cannabinoids in animals is still at the experimental level, but there is evidence of a possible benefit to animal health. [5]
There are cannabis-containing products that are suggested for therapeutic uses in animals, but it is worth mentioning that these have not yet been proven safe and effective. Cannabinoids such as CBD appear to hold therapeutic promise in areas such as the treatment of epilepsy and the management of pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis, but even so, the available scientific evidence related to their use in animals is currently limited.
Although we know that cannabis has a great potential to treat different conditions in our pets, you should always consult with a veterinarian regarding the use of cannabis and should not use the same dose or presentation that would be used in a human as we could put our pet at serious risk.
The good news is that studies are currently underway to evaluate the beneficial effects of cannabis in many types of animals.
We are excited to learn more about this topic and the possibilities of cannabis as a treatment for many conditions that animals suffer from, however much research is needed to determine the doses in each species, as well as the effects of cannabis in each animal species.
It is very important to look for treatments and integral solutions for our pets that promote the balance of their organisms and a good quality of life and well-being, beyond just treating symptoms or diseases.
References:
[1] Stillabower, A. (s.f.). Marijuana toxicity in pets. Pet Poison Helpline. Recuperado de <sitio web>
[2] Betancurt, J. J. ( 2019). Cannabis Medicinal En Veterinaria. Modulación Del Sistema Endocannabinoide [Video]. Recuperado de <sitio web>
[3] Biles, M. (2019). Cannabis medicinal para mascotas.Kalapa Clinic. Recuperado de <sitio web>
[4] Gyles C. (2016). Marijuana for pets?. The Canadian veterinary journal = La revue veterinaire canadienne. Recuperado de <sitio web>
[5] Landa, L. Sulcova, A. Gbelec, P. (2016). The use of cannabinoids in animals and therapeutic implications for veterinary medicine: a review. Veterinarni Medicina. Recuperado de <PDF>
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