Pet Project

Catnip or Cannabis? You Make the Call

By Amy Marie Orozco

Though cannabis and catnip bear a remarkable resemblance, they are vastly different. Catnip has been greenlighted by veterinarians as harmless to domestic felines, not so cannabis. Presumably, that is due to the demonization of cannabis, which didn’t allow for research on the plant medicine, and scientists are catching up. On the other hand, it should be noted that cannabis hasn’t been proven to be harmful to cats.

After all, cats are just like you and I. They, too, have endocannabinoid systems (ECS).

Quickie refresher: Vertebrates (mammals, fish, reptiles, birds) and invertebrates (sea urchins, nematodes, leeches, and more) have endocannabinoid systems, an intricate cellsignaling system helping to regulate sleep, mood, appetite, and memory, among other bodily functions. The ECS is active even without the use of cannabis.

While catnip is regarded as a harmless giggle for cats as well as the humans observing the ensuing funny 5 minuteshow their pets give them, cannabis with a high THC content may be toxic. CBD, though, proves promising for conditions like cancer, arthritis, and pancreatitis.

Here’s what is definitely harmful: Smoking. While the most common way domestic cats ingest cannabis is through second-hand smoke, nibbling on a leaf and snacking on an edible aren’t unusual.

Cats exhibit similar symptoms as humans for THC consumption: dilated pupils, low blood pressure, sleepiness, and/or excitability. They also may vomit, drool, have a seizure, or be uncoordinated (unusual for cats, right?). Don’t hesitate to call or visit your veterinarian should you be alarmed.

Wondering if your favorite feline could benefit from CBD or THC? Obviously, a conversation with the family veterinarian is in order when considering cannabis to enhance your cat’s life. To begin your own research, check out “Medical Marijuana & Your Pet” by Robert Silva DVM.

Something to consider: Just like many humans, some cats may hate the feeling of being high.