Humans get good results using CBD, but does it work for our furry friends? The answer is yes! CBD is considered a wellness option by many pet owners to relieve the anxiety, arthritis, pain, and insomnia experienced by their dogs and cats. Read about CBD for pets.
About CBD
CBD is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid of the cannabis plant. CBD has therapeutic properties such as it is an anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, analgesic, anti-psychoactive, and anti-microbial. Scientists believe that CBD can interact with the endocannabinoid system of the human body and provide many wellness benefits such as relief from pain, inflammation, and anxiety.
You can find CBD in a variety of forms such as sublingual, topicals, and edibles.
How Does CBD for Pets Work?
The Endocannabinoid System, or ECS, is involved with different body functions such as pain perception, hunger, mood, and immune response. The ECS makes sure that the body is always in a balanced state by impacting above mentioned physiological functions.[1] Like humans, cats and dogs are mammals, so they also have an endocannabinoid system with which CBD can interact.
Benefits of CBD for Pets
There is limited research on CBD use in pets. Some holistic veterinarians recommend its’ use for dogs and cats.
Based on veterinary and human research, CBD may help pets with the following conditions.
Pain
Pets suffer from pain due to arthritis, cancer, or other underlying condition. Pet owners searching for natural alternatives to over-the-counter pain killers can use CBD for pain relief. CBD has potent analgesic abilities that can help in managing pain perception. CBD can decrease pain by positively affecting various endocannabinoid receptors. One research study indicates that CBD can help can a pet suffering from osteoarthritis by lowering the levels of pain.[2]
Inflammation
Inflammation can affect a pet’s life. It is a very uncomfortable and irritating. The pain associated with inflammation makes it even more unbearable for your dog or cat. Injuries or other health conditions such as arthritis can be a cause of inflammation in pets.
Research studies support the anti-inflammatory properties of CBD that are very effective for acute or chronic inflammation. For example, CBD can decrease inflammation due to osteoarthritis, a study revealed. [3,4] When the anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties of CBD work together, they act as an effective remedy for inflammation.
Seizures
CBD can also help in managing seizures in pets. A small study on epileptic dogs in 2019 found that administering medicine along with CBD significantly decreased seizures compared to the dogs only receiving medication or placebo. A 2018 study conducted by Colorado State University found that oral CBD dose for epileptic dogs was more effective than topical application.[5]
Anxiety
Stress and anxiety are inevitable even for pets. To manage it in pets CBD can be very helpful as it is helpful for humans. Many research studies also support the anti-anxiety effects of CBD.
Research shows that CBD may manage anxiety by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain.
CBD can also help manage tumor growth [6], nausea, and vomiting in pets. However, further research studies are required to fully understand how CBD can do this.
Will CBD Make My Dog or Cat Get High or Experience Side Effects?
CBD is a non-psychoactive compound and will not create euphoria or sedation. It may impart a feeling of relaxation and calmness in the cat or dog.
As for the side effects, CBD is a generally well-tolerated compound. Some scientific studies show that consumption of CBD may cause diarrhea in dogs and cats. Cats may also suffer from mild aching or head shaking.
How to Find the Right Dose of CBD for Pets
A CBD Dose indication for pets has not yet been approved by FDA. Only veterinarians can provide guidance.
CBD dosing generally depends upon the weight and type of animal. It is recommended to always start with a low dose and gradually increase if you notice any improvement in the condition.
Always follow the dose or formula mentioned on the products by the manufacturer.
Keep CBD sealed and out of reach from your pet.
Summary on CBD for Pets
No FDA guidelines exist for CBD for pets, but many people find it helps their dog or cat with problems such as pain or anxiety.
Was CBD for Pets: How CBD Can Help Your Pet useful? Read how to find a reputable CBD Vendor to ensure quality CBD for your pet. Always check the COA third party lab testing on any CBD product.
Always consult your veterinarian before starting CBD for your pets.
References
- Marzo, V., Bifulco, M. & Petrocellis, L. The endocannabinoid system and its therapeutic exploitation. Nat Rev Drug Discov 3, 771–784 (2004)
- Gamble Lauri-Jo, et al, “Pharmacokinetics, Safety, and Clinical Efficacy of Cannabidiol Treatment in Osteoarthritic Dogs”, Frontiers in Veterinary Science, Vol. 5, 2018, p. 165
- Ibid
- Federica Pellati, Vittoria Borgonetti, Virginia Brighenti, Marco Biagi, Stefania Benvenuti, Lorenzo Corsi,”Cannabis sativa L. and Nonpsychoactive Cannabinoids: Their Chemistry and Role against Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and Cancer“, BioMed Research International, vol. 2018, Article ID 1691428, 15pages, 2018.
- McGrath, Stephanie, Lisa R. Bartner, Sangeeta Rao, Rebecca A. Packer, and Daniel L. Gustafson. ” Randomized blinded controlled clinical trial to assess the effect of oral cannabidiol administration in addition to conventional antiepileptic treatment on seizure frequency in dogs with intractable idiopathic epilepsy”. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 254.11 (2019): 1301-1308.
- Pellati, BioMed, 2018
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