Is Mary-Bud Toxic to Cats?

Cats are lovable pets, which is why they are the second most common pets in the US. However, cats are also curious creatures and can eat almost anything within their reach, which could be dangerous for them. As a result, it’s essential to ensure that everything that they consume is safe for their health.

One of the things that people have been asking is whether Mary-Bud is toxic to cats. Mary-Bud is a plant that is native to Africa and is often cultivated in Europe and Asia. The plant has gained popularity over the years for its cannabis-like substances and its claimed medicinal properties. However, is it safe for cats?

Understanding Mary-Bud

Mary-Bud belongs to the family of plants known as Cannabaceae. This plant family is comprised of over 170 species of flowering plants. The species that is of interest here is the common hop or Humulus lupulus, which is also part of this family.

However, the plant also has higher concentrations of cannabidiol (CBD), which is the main component in cannabis that is used for medicinal purposes. Cannabidiol is believed to have anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, and calming effects on the body. However, Mary-Bud is not the same as marijuana, which has higher concentrations of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive component that gives users a high.

Can Cats consume Mary-Bud?

The answer to this question is not a straightforward one. While Mary-Bud is not toxic to cats, it could cause some health risks. Cats are carnivorous animals and, therefore, are not adapted to digesting or metabolizing plant material. Plant material could cause digestive upset, vomiting, and diarrhea. Ingesting large quantities of Mary-Bud could also cause liver damage in cats.

Furthermore, Mary-Bud has a sedative effect on humans. While this is desirable in humans, it could be harmful to cats. Cats have a higher sensitivity to sedatives, which means that Mary-Bud could cause drowsiness, lethargy, and even coma in cats.

What happens when a cat consumes Mary-Bud?

When a cat consumes Mary-Bud, the effects vary depending on the amount ingested. Mild ingestion could cause digestive upset, while a larger amount could cause liver damage.

The sedative effects of Mary-Bud on cats could also be harmful. Cats have various levels of sensitivity to sedatives, and Mary-Bud could cause reactions ranging from drowsiness to coma. Cats that are on medication such as anti-anxiety medication or those with certain medical conditions are at a higher risk of severe sedative effects.

What to do if a cat ingests Mary-Bud?

If you notice that your cat has ingested Mary-Bud, it’s essential to seek veterinary care immediately. The veterinarian will evaluate your cat to determine if there are any harmful effects of ingestion. They may also perform a liver function test to evaluate the cat's liver function.

If the ingestion of Mary-Bud has caused digestive upset, the veterinarian may recommend supportive care such as fluid therapy and anti-nausea medication. If the cat has severe sedative effects, hospitalization may be necessary.

Conclusion

Mary-Bud is not toxic to cats but is not recommended for consumption either. While cats are curious creatures, they do not have the digestive system to metabolize plant material. As a result, ingestion of Mary-Bud could cause digestive problems and liver damage. The plant also has sedative effects, which could be harmful to cats. Therefore, it’s best to keep Mary-Bud away from cats and to seek veterinary care immediately if ingestion occurs.

As a pet owner, it’s crucial to be aware of the potential risks of the plants and food that cats ingest. Keeping harmful substances away from cats requires due diligence and awareness.

Cats are valuable members of the family, and their health should be a top priority. Taking care of them means ensuring their environment is safe and healthy.

Therefore, it’s best to be cautious and to consult with your veterinarian if you are uncertain about the safety of any substance for your furry friend.