CBD Oil for Cats: Dosage and Benefits of CBD for Cats
As a cat owner you may have heard about CBD oil and its potential benefits for our feline friends. CBD - short for cannabidiol - is a compound found in cannabis and hemp plants that's been gaining popularity for its potential to support various aspects of health and wellbeing in humans and pets alike.
In the UK and EU, some owners are looking into pet CBD oil for their cats - particularly to help with issues like anxiety. Research into using hemp oil or CBD oil as veterinary medicine is still limited, which is why Harmony doesn't offer CBD products specifically for pets yet. It's important to note that the studies on CBD for cats are not yet extensive enough to fully recommend its use [1].
So while anecdotal evidence suggests that your cat might benefit from CBD, it's absolutely crucial to consult with your vet before deciding to incorporate it into your cat's routine. The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice! Always keep an eye on the latest research developments on using CBD oil to make an informed decision about your pet's health.
Understanding Hemp and CBD Oil for Cats
What Is CBD Oil?
CBD (cannabidiol) is a natural compound extracted from the hemp plant. It is one of many cannabinoids that can be found in this plant. CBD is known to have potential therapeutic properties - without the psychoactive effects produced by THC, another well-known cannabinoid. In the UK and EU it is legal to sell and use CBD products as long as they contain less than 0.2% THC.
To make CBD oil, a CBD extract from hemp is diluted in one or more carrier oils (this can for example be MCT oil, olive oil, or hempseed oil). Some CBD oils have flavourings and sweeteners added to make them tastier. The CBD extract can be either full spectrum CBD, broad spectrum CBD or CBD isolate. Full-spectrum CBD oil contains other cannabinoids besides CBD, including a trace amount of THC. Broad spectrum CBD oil also contains various cannabinoids, but has the THC removed. CBD isolate is pure CBD on its own.
Harmony offers a range of CBD products - among them an unflavoured broad-spectrum CBD oil which may be the best starting point for those interested in trying CBD oil for their pet.
The Endocannabinoid System in Cats
Just like humans, cats have an endocannabinoid system (ECS) that is responsible for maintaining balance in various bodily functions. When you give your pet a dose of CBD this interacts with the receptors of the ECS, potentially affecting several aspects of your cat's health.
Potential Benefits of CBD for Cats
Pain relief: Limited studies on CBD's use in animals suggest it may have potential as a natural pain reliever. Incorporating a certain amount of CBD oil into your cat's routine may help manage pain associated with joint issues and inflammation. However - it's important to note that a lot more research is needed in this area!
Stress and anxiety reduction: Cats can sometimes experience anxiety and stress manifesting in changes in behaviour or physical symptoms. As a result of its interaction with the ECS, CBD oil could have a calming effect on cats - helping them to feel more relaxed.
Improved overall health and well-being: While research on the topic is limited some studies have suggested that CBD oil may help support the overall health and wellbeing. But it's important to note that these findings are still preliminary. As with any supplement we urge you to consult with your vet before adding CBD oil to your cat's regimen!
Even though CBD oil may have potential benefits for feline health [2], it's best not to start using it on your cat without discussing the topic with a veterinarian first!
Usage and Safety of Cat CBD Oil
How Much CBD for Cats
Administering the proper dosage of CBD oil for therapeutic benefits to your cat is crucial for ensuring its effectiveness and safety. As studies regarding CBD usage in cats are limited it is advised to consult with your veterinarian before incorporating CBD into your cat's routine. Some factors that might affect the CBD dosage include your cat's weight, age and the specific health condition you're trying to solve. Additionally, consider the potency of the CBD product you're using! The potency is the mg of CBD per ml, often expressed as a percentage, and it will influence the dose of CBD oil.
Possible Side Effects of CBD
While CBD oil for pets is generally considered safe, some possible side effects might include sedation, drowsiness or gastrointestinal upset. As with any supplement or treatment, every cat may respond differently to CBD. It is essential to start with a low dose to monitor your cat for any changes in behaviour or health when using CBD products. This is especially important if your cat is on other medications that could potentially interact with CBD. Consulting a veterinarian is always recommended to ensure your cat's safety when using CBD products!
Choosing a High-Quality Product to Give Your Cat CBD
To ensure the best result and safety, be diligent when selecting a high-quality CBD product for your cat. Consider the following:
Purity: Choose a product that is free from heavy metals, pesticides and additives. Look for lab test results or certifications confirming the absence of these harmful substances.
Potency: Opt for a product with a clear label indicating the concentration and type of CBD. This will help you assess the appropriate dosage for your cat.
Carrier oil: Choose products that use a high-quality carrier oil like MCT oil and hemp oil. High-quality CBD products specifically formulated for cats might also contain ingredients like fish oil, or chicken or beef flavour.
Manufacturing and sourcing: Opt for brands like Harmony that focus on quality control by using organic hemp grown in Europe and are adhering to strict guidelines.
In conclusion: always consult a veterinarian before introducing CBD to your cat's regimen! If they give the green light, prioritise quality when choosing a product to ensure safety and effectiveness. Monitor your cat's reaction and adjust the dosage accordingly - always under the guidance of a professional.
written by
anna falk - head of product
As the Head of Product at Harmony, Dr Anna Falk leads the development of our products and provides expert tips for your wellness. With over 10 years of experience in the research and development of natural products, her work is based on rigorous scientific studies.
Anna is an award-winning, internationally published researcher with a PhD in Organic Chemistry. She applies her expertise to develop Harmony's certified products that support your overall well-being. From research to development, she ensures that our products are of the highest quality and meet the highest standards.
✓ FACT CHECKED AND SCIENTIFICALLY REVIEWED
We ensure our content is current and accurate with strict guidelines about sourcing that rely on governmental authority, academic institutions and peer-reviewed studies..
[1] Yu CHJ, Rupasinghe HPV. Cannabidiol-based natural health products for companion animals: Recent advances in the management of anxiety, pain, and inflammation. Res Vet Sci. 2021 Nov;140:38-46. — link to source
[2] Corsato Alvarenga I, Panickar KS, Hess H, McGrath S. Scientific Validation of Cannabidiol for Management of Dog and Cat Diseases. Annu Rev Anim Biosci. 2023 Feb 15;11:227-246. — link to source
