The ferret was almost killed by its love of cannabis-infused edibles. This is a cautionary tale for pet owners.
The Washington State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital faced a difficult situation when Vanilla, the ferret, was found to have a low heartbeat, be barely breathing and exhibiting seizure like activity, tremors and even bordering on comatose.
Owner thought ferret was crushed by recliner before admitting. After the owner disclosed three edible cannabis products containing 10 mg of cannabinoids[?] After noticing that 10 mg cannabinol was missing from each ferret, and another one in the house seemed lethargic with a healthy appetite but no energy level, the WSU researchers began investigating the possibility of marijuana poisoning.
The veterinarians used an in-home human test to confirm the presence of THC, an intoxicating cannabinoid. They then administered an intravenous liquid emulsion that binds THC, helping it leave the body. Vanilla was in good health within four days. Owner reported that the ferret was healthy at home and doing well 30 days after discharge.
Cannabis is now legal in several US states for medical and recreational purposes. This has led to an increase in cannabinoid-induced toxicosis in both humans as well as animals.
WSU’s Pet Poison Hotline reported that between 2017 and 20,23, calls for marijuana poisoning increased by 448%. It’s not only the THC. The artificial sweetener used in some edibles — called xylitol — is toxic to dogs.
Authors of the report:
“Considering that cannabinoid-containing products are now widely available in North America, it is essential to consider cannabinoid toxicosis as a differential in pets with signs of diffuse dysfunction of the central nervous system.”
Vanilla the ferret was diagnosed with cannabinoid-induced toxicosis, and the full report is available. has been published Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care.
Claudia Huerta is the lead author. said Pet owners who are cannabis users should store it in a place where pets cannot reach it. If they use cannabis, make sure to tell your veterinarian as much as you can.
The authors point out that drug tests for THC-COOH (11-nor-9-carboxy-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol), which is the cannabinoid metabolite detected by over-the-counter tests, are known not to be adequately sensitive for dogs.
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