CBD for Pets: CBD Oil for Dogs and Cats

If you’re a pet owner, you might at some point be dealing with an anxious dog, a cat with chronic pain, or a furry friend suffering from other health issues. After hearing so many great things about CBD (short for cannabidiol, an extract from the hemp plant) for humans, you’ve probably wondered if it could help animals too. And with so much buzz around its benefits, it’s no surprise that more and more people are turning to CBD oil for their pets.

But how exactly can a natural compound from the hemp plant make a difference for your pet’s health? In this article, we’ll break down the benefits, the correct dosages, and everything you need to know about CBD products for pets - all based on the latest scientific literature. By the end, you should have a clear understanding of how CBD can support your pet’s well-being, what to watch out for, and when to consult your vet about CBD use for animals.

What is CBD, and How Does it Work for Pets?

CBD, short for cannabidiol, is one of the many compounds called "phytocannabinoids" found in the cannabis plant. Unlike THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis, CBD does not cause a “high” or any other form of intoxication. Instead, it is widely being studied for its potential benefits in both humans and animals. It interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a network of receptors and signaling molecules in the body. The ECS regulates a variety of functions such as mood, pain, appetite, and immune response.

So when you give CBD to an animal, it interacts with cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2) within this system. This is what could be offering effects such as pain relief, reduced anxiety, and improved overall wellbeing.

Benefits of CBD for Pets

There are several scientific studies that have explored the benefits of CBD for animals - particularly for dogs and cats. Here’s a breakdown of the main advantages:

1. Pain Relief: CBD has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which makes it an excellent option for managing chronic pain conditions such as arthritis.
   
   
2. Anxiety Reduction: If your dog suffers from anxiety, particularly separation anxiety or stress in certain situations (like thunderstorms, fireworks or car rides), a dose of CBD oil might help. Research shows that besides the ECS, CBD also interacts with serotonin receptors, which regulate mood and stress.
   
   
3. Seizure Management: Epileptic seizures in dogs can be a chronic condition that is challenging to manage. However, some studies have found that CBD oil for dogs can help reduce their frequency and severity.
   
   
4. Improved Skin Health: Pets with itchy or sensitive skin or conditions like dermatitis can benefit from the soothing effects of CBD. Topical CBD can help reduce inflammation and irritation on your pet's skin, supporting better overall skin health.
   
   
5. Improved Sleep: Especially older pets with chronic pain often struggle to sleep. The calming effects of CBD may promote better sleep patterns for your pet and help them to feel more rested.
   
   

CBD Products for Pets: What Are the Options?

There are various CBD products available for pets, ranging from full-spectrum CBD oil to broad-spectrum CBD and CBD isolates. But what do these terms mean, and which one is best for your pet? Let's find out!

• Full Spectrum CBD Oil: This type of oil contains all the cannabinoids, terpenes, and other beneficial compounds found in the hemp plant. This includes trace amounts of THC, but they are typically less than 0.3% and won't cause any harmful effects. This type of CBD is believed to provide the so-called "entourage effect", where all the compounds work together for maximum therapeutic benefits.
  
  
• Broad Spectrum CBD: This is similar to full-spectrum CBD, but doesn't contain any THC. It still contains other cannabinoids and terpenes, making it a good choice for those who want to use CBD products with an entourage effect, but without any THC.
  
  
• CBD Isolate: This is isolated, pure CBD with no other cannabinoids or compounds. It's ideal for pet parents who want a THC-free option. However, it may not provide the same level of benefit as full- or broad-spectrum CBD.
  
  

When selecting a CBD oil product for your pet, it’s crucial to ensure it is suitable for animals. Products designed for human use may contain ingredients that are unsafe for pets, such as artificial sweeteners - always check the ingredient list and contact the manufacturer if you have any doubts.

Choosing the Right CBD Oil for Your Animal

When looking for the best CBD oil for your furry friend, it’s essential to buy high-quality, third-party lab-tested products. This ensures that a product contains the proper amount of CBD and is free from potentially harmful additives. A premium CBD oil will likely contain clear dosage indications and have been tested for purity.

Currently, there are no CBD products authorised by the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) for animal use in the UK. However - you can use products made for humans, provided they are legally obtained, of high quality, and you’ve consulted with your vet.

Dosage Guidelines for Dogs and Cats

Before giving CBD or any other supplement to your pet, it’s essential to speak to your veterinarian, especially if your pet is on any medication or has preexisting health conditions. While it has shown great promise, it’s important to make informed decisions regarding dosage and administration of CBD.

When it comes to research, significantly more studies have been conducted on dogs than on cats. This means that the dosage guidelines for dogs are more well-established, while the information available for cats is still developing and should be approached cautiously. That being said, many of the studies conducted so far show promising results and a great safety profile for both species, particularly when it comes to managing issues like anxiety, chronic pain, and inflammation.

Here are some dosage guidelines based on the latest available research:

• Small dogs and cats (under 10kg): Start with 1-2mg of CBD per 4kg of body weight.
• Medium dogs (10-25kg): Start with 2-4mg of CBD per 4kg of body weight.
• Large dogs (over 25kg): Start with 3-5mg of CBD per 4kg of body weight.

In most available studies, CBD is given once or twice a day. The results are often only seen after several weeks of consistent use. However, since each pet is unique, you should always monitor their response closely and adjust it if needed. Chronic conditions may require higher doses, while milder issues can often be managed with smaller amounts. 

Potential Side Effects of CBD Oil for Pets

While it is generally considered as safe, it's important to be aware that some pets may experience mild side effects when given CBD. In clinical studies, the most commonly reported ones include:

• Dry mouth: CBD can decrease saliva production, leading to an increase in thirst.
• Lowered blood pressure: High doses of CBD have been associated with a temporary drop in blood pressure, which may cause slight dizziness in some pets.
• Drowsiness: Pets given higher doses of CBD, particularly for conditions like anxiety, may become more relaxed and drowsy.

These side effects are typically mild and fade as your pet’s body adjusts to a regular CBD use. It’s also worth noting that research shows that cats tend to absorb CBD more slowly than dogs, meaning it could take longer for side effects (if any) to appear. 

To minimise potential side effects, always ensure you're using high-quality CBD oil from a reputable source and follow proper guidelines, starting with a low dose. Always monitor your pet closely for any changes. If it experiences persistent side effects or if you're concerned about their reaction, speak to your vet, as they can help you to adjust the dosage or advise on alternative options.

How to Give CBD to Your Pet

There are several ways to administer CBD to your dog or cat. The most common way is to give them CBD oil drops, either directly into the mouth or mixed in with food. If you prefer special CBD dog treats or capsules, which offer a pre-measured dose and may be more convenient, make sure you keep them out of reach for your pet so they don't overindulge.

The key to giving CBD oil to pets is consistency. For long-term conditions like arthritis or anxiety, daily use is recommended. For situational anxiety (such as fireworks or vet visits), an extra dose of CBD oil can be administered an hour before the stressful event.

The Future of CBD in Animal Health

The use of CBD for pets continues to grow in popularity, but more research is needed to fully understand its long-term benefits, effects and dosing for specific conditions. So far, we have seen promising results in managing conditions like pain, anxiety, seizures, and skin issues, but there’s still so much to uncover! The ongoing exploration of CBD oil in veterinary science is exciting, and we might soon see CBD products being approved and used as medicine for our furry friends.

If you're considering CBD oil for your dog or cat, start by choosing third-party tested, premium CBD products. It's important to ensure that you're using high-quality, full-spectrum or broad-spectrum CBD oils suitable for pets. Always speak to your vet before introducing CBD products or any other supplements into your pet’s routine to ensure the correct dosage and safety.

Sources

[1] Di Salvo A, Chiaradia E, Sforna M, Della Rocca G. Endocannabinoid system and phytocannabinoids in the main species of veterinary interest: a comparative review. Vet Res Commun. 2024 Oct;48(5):2915-2941.