Can Cats Get High from Smoke or Catnip?

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Suppose you’ve seen a cat rolling around in a pile of catnip or acting strangely after being around smoke. In that case, you’ve probably wondered — can cats get high? It’s a strange thought but not an uncommon one. As more households use vapes, marijuana, or other substances, many cat lovers are asking: Is my cat affected by this stuff, too? Let’s talk honestly about it.

What Does “High” Mean for a Cat?

Before diving into how cats can be affected, it’s essential to understand that “getting high” in animals isn’t the same as it is for people. When we say a cat is “high,” we’re referring to changes in their behavior due to exposure to certain substances. These can range from mild and harmless (like catnip) to dangerous and even life-threatening (like marijuana or vape smoke).

Cats can’t consent, and their bodies aren’t built to handle many of the substances humans use recreationally. What seems fun or harmless to us could be overwhelming or toxic to a cat.

Can Cats Get High on Catnip?

This is the most common — and safest — form of feline “high.”

Catnip, also known as Nepeta cataria, is a harmless herb that contains a compound called nepetalactone. When cats smell it, it binds to receptors in their noses. It triggers a chemical response in the brain, causing various reactions. Some cats roll around, others meow loudly, purr, or run in circles like they’re having the time of their lives.

It’s completely safe. The effects last about 10–15 minutes and wear off naturally. Not all cats are sensitive to catnip, though. Around 30%–40% don’t respond — it’s genetic.

But here’s the key: catnip is not a drug, and cats don’t get addicted to it. It’s more like a temporary burst of excitement than an actual high in the human sense.

Can Cats Get High from Vape Smoke?

This question is popping up more often now that vaping is so common. So let’s be clear:

Yes, cats can be affected by vape smoke. But that’s not a good thing.

Vape smoke — especially the kind that contains nicotine, THC, or CBD — can be harmful to cats. Their lungs are delicate. They can’t filter chemicals like we do, and they often clean themselves by licking their fur — which means any residue from vapor can end up in their system.

Even if it smells fruity or seems less harmful than cigarette smoke, vape smoke isn’t safe for cats. Inhaling it can lead to respiratory issues, anxiety, and exposure to toxic substances, depending on what’s in the vape.

If you’re using a vape at home, ensure your cat is in a separate, well-ventilated area. Better yet, avoid vaping around them altogether.

Can Cats Get High from Second-Hand Smoke?

Second-hand smoke, especially from marijuana or cigarettes, can affect cats — and not in a good way.

Cats breathe the same air we do, but their bodies are smaller and more sensitive. When they inhale second-hand marijuana smoke, for example, they can experience symptoms like disorientation, drooling, low heart rate, or even seizures. They don’t understand what’s happening, which can be incredibly distressing.

It’s not just about breathing the smoke, either. THC particles can settle on surfaces like furniture or your cat’s fur. If your cat is groomed afterward, it could ingest harmful chemicals.

Bottom line: second-hand smoke, whether from cannabis or tobacco, is toxic to cats. Even low levels can make them sick.

Can Cats Get High from Marijuana?

Let’s not sugarcoat it: marijuana is dangerous for cats.

THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the primary psychoactive ingredient in cannabis, is toxic to cats. Even small amounts can cause severe reactions. If a cat eats marijuana (like edibles, buds, or even residue) or inhales too much smoke, they may show symptoms like:

Vomiting
Loss of coordination
Lethargy or hyperactivity
Drooling
Low blood pressure
Tremors or seizures
Coma in extreme cases

Some cat owners think it’s funny to let their pets “get high,” but the truth is, this can be life-threatening. Cats don’t process THC the way humans do, and their small size makes even a tiny dose dangerous.

If you suspect your cat has ingested marijuana, call your vet immediately or reach out to a pet poison helpline. Don’t wait.

What About CBD?

CBD (cannabidiol) is often marketed as pet-safe. Some brands even sell CBD oils or treats for cats.

But there’s a catch.

While CBD doesn’t cause the same “high” as THC, not all CBD products are safe for cats. Some are contaminated with THC, poorly labeled, or made for humans with added ingredients that aren’t pet-friendly. Always consult a vet before giving any supplement, including CBD, to your cat.

Signs Your Cat Might Be “High” or Affected by Substances

Not sure if your cat might’ve been exposed? Watch for these signs:

Wobbling or loss of balance
Staring into space
Rapid or slow heart rate
Unusual meowing or agitation
Sudden hiding or fearfulness
Vomiting or excessive drooling

If your cat is acting strange and you suspect exposure to smoke, edibles, or any kind of drug — seek help fast. Don’t assume they’ll “sleep it off.”

How to Keep Your Cat Safe

Protecting your cat from harmful substances is part of being a responsible pet owner. Here are a few tips:

Don’t smoke or vape around your cat — ever.
Store marijuana and edibles in sealed containers, out of reach.
Avoid leaving ashtrays or vape pens where your cat can access them.
Wash your hands after handling substances before petting your cat.
Use air purifiers if you smoke at home, though they’re not a replacement for avoiding smoke exposure entirely.
Stick to pet-safe play — like catnip, silvervine, or interactive toys.

FAQs

Can cats get high off catnip every day?

They can enjoy it often, but I’ll likely become immune shortly after each use. It’s safe, but moderation keeps the excitement fresh.

Is second-hand weed smoke harmful to cats?

Yes, it is. Even passive exposure to marijuana smoke can cause severe symptoms and should be avoided altogether.

Can cats get addicted to marijuana?

No, but THC is toxic to them. While addiction isn’t the concern, poisoning is.

Can a small amount of weed kill a cat?

It’s rare, but if the dose is high enough — especially with edibles — it can be fatal. Always treat exposure as an emergency.

Is vape smoke less harmful than cigarette smoke for cats?

Not really. Both are dangerous in different ways, and neither should be around your cat.

A Final Word — From One Cat Lover to Another

Our cats trust us. They curl up beside us, purr in our laps, and follow us from room to room. They don’t know what vape smoke or THC is — they just want to be close to us. It’s our job to keep them safe, even from the things we might not think twice about.

If you’re a smoker or someone who uses marijuana or vapes, I’m not here to judge. But I hope you’ll think twice before lighting up around your cat. That little furball depends on you more than you think.

And if you’re looking for ways to help your cat feel good? Stick to the safe stuff. Catnip, playtime, gentle pets. They’ll love you for it — and stay healthy doing it.