In recent years, cases have increased, and experts are concerned about the health of the animals, who may even die.
It’s not that rare for pets to consume cocaine.
A new study in JAMA wants to know exact numbers. To do this, it analyzed calls made to the international helpline between 2019 and 2023 and calculated a annual percentage change (APC) — a useful way to identify a global trend in numbers that may fluctuate in the short term.
Although there has not been a significant increase in pets coming into contact with meth, there has been a Worrying increase in reports of cocaine exposuretells .
In the case of cats, the numbers revealed an incidence rate of 52% (based on a total of 63 cocaine-related notifications), while in the case of dogs the incidence rate was 39% (433 notifications). An APC of 38% for dogs exposed to cocaine or methamphetamine was also notable.
“Animals are highly sensitive to the stimulant and sympathomimetic effects of cocaine and methamphetamine,” the researchers write.
Symptoms caused by drug ingestion can range from vomiting and tremors to hemorrhage or even death.
“Any degree of exposure should be considered concerning, as there is a risk of serious toxicity and death, even with aggressive medical therapy.”
Cocaine and methamphetamine are the most commonly used banned stimulant drugs in the US. According to, 1.8% of Americans have consumed cocaine and 0.9% of Americans have consumed methamphetamine us last 12 months. It is therefore possible that those who consume these drugs have access to them at home.
As the study was also carried out during the pandemic period, people spent more time at home.
“This study is critical because it raises awareness about the potential consequences of unsafe illicit stimulants,” the researchers write.
“The importance of veterinary medicine cannot be underestimated, since the dogs and cats are crucial members of households, often providing comfort and emotional support, highlighting the intrinsic relationship between human and animal health.”