It’s a common question, “Does weed smoke affect rabbits?” The answer to this question depends on the breed of rabbit, the length of time they are exposed to weed smoke, the amount of weed that is present, and the condition of the rabbit’s respiratory system. However, there are some general symptoms that may indicate an animal is experiencing a problem with weed smoke, which can help veterinarians determine if they should treat the animal with medical cannabis.
THC
The question is, does weed smoke affect bunnies? While it has been speculated that cannabis may affect rabbits, there is little evidence to back up this claim.
Getting your pet rabbit high can be a risky venture, especially if they have a medical condition. Animal abuse laws require that you seek veterinary advice before giving your pet any substances. Your vet may also administer medications to help with nausea and other common symptoms. They may also provide activated charcoal to help the digestive system.
If you want to know how to feed marijuana to your rabbit, then you should be aware that they can be a lot more sensitive than you might think. Aside from toxins, there are other side effects that can be dangerous.
Considering that the average rabbit has small lungs, inhaling smoke can be harmful to them. Likewise, eating edibles can lead to stomach problems, as well.
THC is a chemical found in marijuana. This compound gets into the brain and into the lipid layers of the body fat.
It may also inhibit the immune response to syphilis when administered as an infection. For these reasons, it is best to avoid feeding your rabbit weed.
Despite the fact that rabbits have been forced to ingest marijuana byproducts, there is still some uncertainty about their effects. However, a 1976 study reveals that inhaled cannabis smoke does indeed induce respiratory tract infections in dogs.
One ASPCA document describes the benefits of marijuana in animals, which includes easing muscle spasms. Cannabis can also be useful as an anti-stress medication for air traffic controllers.
Some researchers have suggested that cannabis may actually be beneficial to rabbits. In one experiment, rabbits were given a THC injection. Those receiving higher doses showed more intense signs.
CBD
In the US, there are millions of households with rabbits. If you’re one of them, then you’ve probably wondered how cannabis and weed smoke affect your pet.
It is known that THC affects the brain, liver, and lungs of animals. However, researchers have recently looked at the effects of CBD on the same systems.
The results show that the major cannabinoid, CBD, inhibits hERG/IKr currents in vitro. Nevertheless, the effects of CBD on cardiac electrophysiology may be more complicated.
One explanation is that CBD has a multiple effect on potassium channels. Specifically, it inhibits L-type calcium and late sodium currents.
Another is that it may have an additive effect on cardiac repolarization. This is an important feature in certain pathological conditions. Repolarization is necessary to avoid life-threatening arrhythmias.
Besides being an inhibitor, CBD also has neuroprotective effects. A recent study examined this effect in a model of AD. Using a transgenic mouse model, CBD prevented the social recognition deficit that was a key feature of the disease.
The benefits of CBD can be attributed to its CYP2D6 inhibition. This might lead to the increase of dopamine levels in the brain. Similarly, it reduces microglial activation. These effects could support the 5HT elevating effect seen in depressed patients.
On a related note, CBD may have a positive effect in addiction and withdrawal scenarios.
While research is still limited, CBD may be the new miracle drug. Several studies have demonstrated that it is a bronchodilator. Moreover, it is a neuroprotective compound that improves learning and behavioral regulation.
In short, it’s safe to say that both weed and CBD aren’t the magic bullets that they seem to be. Although it may be beneficial, it isn’t always a good idea to get your pets high.
Symptoms of toxicity
When you find your rabbit showing signs of marijuana toxicity, you should take them to the vet. The rabbit’s symptoms could be due to ingested toxic materials or it could be an allergic reaction to the plant. In order to treat the symptoms, your vet will check your pet’s body temperature, respiration rate, heart rate, and muscle strength.
If your rabbit is not displaying any of the above symptoms, it is unlikely that he has ingested marijuana. However, it is a good idea to monitor your rabbit for any unusual behavior.
When a rabbit has ingested a poisonous substance, it may exhibit dilated pupils, cold extremities, loss of appetite, or mucous membranes that are discolored. Some of these symptoms can be severe and will require immediate medical attention.
A trip to the vet will likely include IV fluids, anti-nauseants, and activated charcoal to help the digestive system. Your vet can also give your pet medication to stop vomiting or to calm down your pet’s agitation.
Your vet may also perform blood or urine tests for cannabinoids. These tests will tell your vet what kind of marijuana you have ingested and where in your animal’s body it was absorbed.
Your rabbit’s doctor will probably prescribe a dose of anti-anxiety drugs to control your pet’s agitation and help reduce the amount of vomiting. They may also recommend a stomach pump, intralipid therapy, or an IV solution.
Depending on the dose your pet has ingested, the recovery time will vary. It could take as little as 24 hours or as long as 72 hours. During this time, your pet will also need a supportive care plan to help regulate his temperature, heart rate, and respiration.
Secondhand smoke
Did you know that secondhand cannabis smoke and weed smoke can affect your pet? While a little hazy, there is plenty of data to back up the notion that smoking weed is harmful to your dog, cat or whatever it is that you have. Secondhand cannabis smoke has been called the invisible killer.
The best thing to do is to keep your pets out of the room where you smoke. If you can’t do that, you should at least keep your dog in an area with low humidity. Fortunately, there are a number of non-toxic marijuana alternatives. Alternatively, you could get your pet a dog sitter. That way, you can enjoy your morning cup of coffee while he or she is at it.
In addition, you should consider the fact that your pet might have a higher than average tolerance to secondhand smoke. You might be surprised to learn that some dogs have a difficult time breathing if they are around secondhand stale weed. Luckily, your vet can help alleviate this problem. Besides, it is a much less traumatic situation than if you are forced to rehome your dog.
As long as you follow these tips, you and your pet should be golden. However, remember that the best way to maintain good health is to be consistent. Don’t forget to check your pet’s vaccinations to avoid getting caught off guard. Likewise, make sure that your pet is up to date with its flea and tick treatments. Keeping him or her healthy is just as important as taking care of your own wellbeing. After all, a happy pet is a well-adjusted pet.
Veterinary care for animals with cannabis toxicity
If your pet is experiencing marijuana toxicity, there are several treatment options. A veterinary doctor can perform an exam and determine the severity of the toxicity. They can also prescribe activated charcoal, which can help neutralize the toxin, and anti-vomiting medication, which can prevent further absorption.
Most cases of cannabis toxicity in pets resolve within 24 hours. In more severe cases, the animal may require monitoring of blood pressure and oxygen support. The veterinarian may also administer intravenous fluids to flush out the toxin and regulate the temperature of the patient.
Some pets will show signs of incoordination and hypersalivation, including dilated pupils, dribbling urine, and tremors. Other less common symptoms include glassed over eyes, restlessness, and rapid involuntary eye movements.
THC, the chemical in marijuana, is toxic to animals. Symptoms of marijuana toxicity in pets usually begin 5-12 hours after exposure. Signs of toxicity depend on the dose ingested.
The most common clinical signs of marijuana toxicity in dogs are slow heart rate, incoordination, and dribbling urine. Less common symptoms include restlessness, low blood pressure, and rapid involuntary eye movements.
When your pet exhibits any of these symptoms, call your veterinarian immediately. Your veterinarian can conduct a physical exam to find out if your pet is suffering from a neurological problem, such as a central nervous system depression.
Depending on the level of toxicity, your pet may require IV fluids, inhalation of oxygen, and decontamination of the GI tract. Decontamination methods include using activated charcoal, a warming device, or fluid therapy to maintain the pet’s body temperature.
Treatment of cannabis toxicity can vary, depending on the level of the toxin and the animal’s age. In severe cases, your veterinarian may use an intravenous fluid or lipid emulsion therapy to flush out the toxin.