Posted on October 28, 2022 by Munchies

Delta 8 THC has quickly gained popularity in the human wellness world, much like its cannabinoid relatives, Delta 9 THC and CBD. However, when it comes to our furry friends—particularly cats—Delta 8 THC is not a safe option. While the use of cannabis products like CBD in pets has become more common, Delta 8 THC is far too potent and potentially toxic for cats and other animals.

Cats have a different endocannabinoid system than humans and are particularly sensitive to cannabinoids. This sensitivity means that exposure to Delta 8 THC could lead to toxic effects, which might include symptoms such as lethargy, loss of coordination, vomiting, drooling, or even more severe issues like seizures. If a cat consumes Delta 8 THC, it’s crucial to contact a vet immediately.

Knowing the signs of Delta 8 THC toxicity in pets is key to preventing more serious complications. Always store Delta 8 THC products away from your pets, and if you’re looking to support your cat’s wellness, stick to pet-safe CBD products that are specially formulated for animals.

Key Takeaways

  • Delta 8 THC is toxic to cats — Delta 8 THC, similar to other forms of THC, can be dangerous for cats due to their unique physiology.
  • Psychoactive effects are harmful — Unlike humans, cats can suffer from extreme dizziness, lethargy, incontinence, and other adverse effects when exposed to Delta 8 THC.
  • Delta 8 THC can cause stress and confusion in pets — Cats may experience heightened stress and anxiety when exposed to psychoactive substances like Delta 8 THC, leading to long-term harm.
  • CBD is a safer alternative — Unlike Delta 8 THC, CBD products designed specifically for pets can offer health benefits without harmful side effects.
  • Responsible storage is crucial — Pet owners must keep Delta 8 THC products, especially edibles, out of their pet’s reach to prevent accidental ingestion.
  • Seek immediate veterinary care if ingested — If a cat consumes Delta 8 THC, it’s essential to consult a veterinarian immediately to prevent severe complications.

Is Delta 8 THC Safe for Cats?

Delta 8 THC is not safe for cats. Cats have a unique physiology that makes certain substances highly dangerous, even if those substances are harmless or beneficial for humans. Just like foods such as onions and garlic can be toxic to cats, cannabinoids, including Delta 8 THC, can pose serious health risks. Cats’ systems are not equipped to handle THC, which could lead to toxic reactions.

Cannabis is harmful to cats, especially due to its psychoactive components like THC. While cannabis has been used for medical purposes in humans, the same does not apply to animals. THC, the primary intoxicant in cannabis, can be toxic to pets, causing severe stress, confusion, and illness. However, non-psychoactive compounds such as CBD have gained popularity in the pet wellness industry, offering some potential benefits without the harmful effects. If you’re considering trying CBD for your pet, consult a veterinarian first to ensure it’s safe for your furry friend.

Negative Side Effects of Delta 8 THC for Cats

Delta 8 affects cats differently than humans, and it can lead to various negative side effects in cats and other animals:

  • Dizziness—Cats consuming Delta 8 may experience dizziness, which can lead to wobbling, difficulty walking straight, or even standing. This is a clear sign that something is wrong, and immediate attention may be necessary.
  • Lethargy—Delta 8 can induce extreme lethargy in cats, making it difficult to wake them up. This is highly unusual for animals, particularly cats, who are biologically wired to wake quickly. If this occurs, it’s a serious red flag, and the cat should be taken to a vet.
  • Incontinence — Some cats under the influence of Delta 8 may experience incontinence, where they lose control of their bladder or bowels, which is out of character for house-trained animals.
  • Stress — Animals can become incredibly stressed after consuming Delta 8, potentially leading to permanent damage. Stress responses in cats may be much stronger than in humans.
  • Excessive Drooling — Excessive drooling, especially in cats, can signal serious distress. They may be overheated, stressed, or gravely ill if they drool or pant.
  • Altered Heart Rhythm — In extreme doses, Delta 8 can interfere with a pet’s heart rhythm, potentially leading to severe complications that require immediate veterinary intervention.

Pets should never consume Delta 8, and owners should be vigilant about keeping these products out of reach to avoid serious health risks.

Is Getting Cats High Safe?

No, getting cats high is not safe. While some people may think it’s amusing to expose their cats to THC, doing so can be harmful and traumatic for the animal. The disorienting effects of THC can cause anxiety, nausea, and even serious medical issues in cats. Deliberately intoxicating your pet with THC is a form of abuse and can have long-lasting negative consequences for their health and well-being. Instead, opt for catnip—a natural, non-toxic alternative that can give cats a similar euphoric experience without the dangerous side effects.

Natural Cat Sedatives for Grooming

If your cat struggles with anxiety during grooming or other stressful situations, there are safe, natural sedatives you can use. Catnip and calming sprays, as well as pet-friendly CBD products, are viable alternatives to THC-based products, which are toxic to pets. Cats with thick fur that requires regular grooming, like Maine Coons, may benefit from these calming solutions to make the process less stressful. Always consult your vet before giving your cat any sedative, even if it’s marketed as natural.

What to Do if Your Cat Eats Cannabis

If your cat accidentally ingests cannabis, it’s crucial to act quickly. Keep a close eye on your pet for symptoms like wobbling, excessive drooling, lethargy, or difficulty standing. If you notice any signs of THC toxicity, take them to the vet immediately. If you are certain your cat consumed cannabis, getting them to the vet early can help. Veterinarians may administer treatments to remove the toxins before they are fully absorbed.

The Safest Delta 8 THC for Cat Owners

The best way to ensure your cats stay safe from Delta 8 toxicity is by being diligent about how you store your cannabis products. Always keep Delta 8 items out of reach of curious cats, especially cats, and dogs, who may be drawn to edible products like gummies or baked goods that smell appetizing.

Delta 8 edibles, because of their sweet and tempting aroma, can pose a higher risk. On the other hand, products like vapes and darts are generally less appealing to cats since they don’t resemble food or emit strong food-like scents. With their superior sense of smell, both dogs and cats can be tempted by strong-smelling food-based cannabis products.

Store all Delta 8 products in a secure, pet-proof location for optimal safety. Always enjoy your Delta 8 responsibly while ensuring the safety of your furry companions.

Final Thoughts

Delta 8, while popular for human use, poses significant risks for cats. Their unique physiology makes them highly sensitive to psychoactive substances, leading to potential health complications such as dizziness, lethargy, and incontinence. 

As a responsible pet owner, it’s essential to avoid exposing your cats to Delta 8 and store all cannabis products securely out of their reach. If your cat accidentally ingests Delta 8, prompt veterinary care is crucial. For those seeking wellness products for their cats, consider safe, non-psychoactive alternatives like pet-specific CBD products. Always prioritize your pet’s safety and well-being.

(Disclaimer reminder: This article is not medical advice. It is based on anecdotal user experience alone. If you are thinking about incorporating cannabis (Delta-8 THC, Delta-9 THC, CBD, etc) into your medicinal routine, please consult a healthcare professional. Do not stop taking any prescribed medications without first consulting your doctor.)

Disclaimer: This article reflects the laws of the United States at the time it was written. Because cannabis laws in the United States are subject to change at any time, please make sure that you are always staying up to date on your federal, state, and local county’s cannabis laws. Additionally, we are NOT encouraging anyone to break the law––we are simply showing people ways to legally and discreetly bring their cannabis products along with them on their travels so that they may have access to those products when they reach their intended destination.

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