If you're a pet owner you may have heard about the growing interest in CBD oil as a supplement for your furry friends. In the UK and EU the conversation surrounding the use of CBD (short for cannabidiol) in veterinary medicine is evolving. Many pet parents are curious about how this natural compound might benefit their pets. Driven by this interest in natural wellness CBD oil for pets is being explored for its potential benefits. But it's important to keep in mind that research is still ongoing to fully understand its effects.
Ensuring the safety of your pets is paramount! It's important to only consider products that comply with regulations within the UK and EU. While there is anecdotal evidence suggesting CBD oil may help in managing certain conditions it's essential to always consult your vet before introducing any new supplement into your pet's routine or treatment plan.
As the landscape of veterinary supplements is expanding we need to keep making informed decisions. For this reason, understanding the role CBD oil could play in your pet's overall well-being is important. It's critical to rely on scientifically-backed information and guidance from veterinary professionals.
Understanding CBD Oil and Its Effects on Pets
Before you consider CBD oil for your pet it's essential to understand what it is and how it can potentially impact their health - without causing intoxication.
What Is CBD Hemp Oil?
CBD oil (short for cannabidiol oil) is derived mainly from the hemp plant - a variety of the cannabis plant. Unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) which is the psychoactive component found in cannabis, CBD does not induce a "high". It's available in various forms: full-spectrum, which includes all cannabinoids and terpenes present in hemp, including THC; broad-spectrum, which is similar but free from THC; CBD isolate, which is pure CBD.
Potential Effects
Just like the human body, your pet's body has an endocannabinoid system that regulates important functions and promotes homeostasis (balance). CBD interacts with this system - potentially offering variousbenefits. It's been shown that CBD may help dogs with arthritis by reducing pain and improving activity levels [1]. Additionally some believe CBD can support immune system function and help with nervous system issues in pets [2]. But research is still in its infancy and apart from some very specific cases no clear recommendations and dosage guidelines are available to date. So please speak to your vet before giving your pet CBD, as they will be best at advising you on risks vs potential benefits.
Psychoactive Concerns
One of the key things to remember is that CBD is non-psychoactive - meaning it should not make your pet feel 'high'. This is because CBD products are crafted from hemp which is naturally low in THC. Nevertheless you should check product labels to ensure that the THC content is under the legal limit in the UK and EU to avoid any unnecessary psychoactive effects on your pet.
Usage and Safety of CBD Products for Pets
Before introducing CBD oil to your pet's routine it's crucial to speak to your vet and understand a careful approach to the right dosing. You should also pay attention and be aware of any potential side effects. Additionally you should know about the legal status regarding veterinary products in the UK.
How Much CBD to Use
To determine a safe dosage of CBD oil for your pet please consider their weight, condition and the potency of the product. A vet can advise you on a good starting point. Some guidance on the subject also comes from Health Canada, where between 0.2 and 2 mg/kg, orally twice a day are recommended for dogs [3]. Currently, there are no recommendations for cats as there isn't sufficient research data available [4]. Oils can be administered directly into your pet’s mouth or added to their food. For conditions like joint pain or osteoarthritis consistent and continued use may be beneficial.
Safety and Side Effects
CBD is generally considered safe, but some pets might experience side effects such as a dry mouth, drowsiness or vomiting. Please discontinue use and speak to your vet if you observe any of these adverse effects. Make sure products you use are free from solvents, pesticides and other additives such as synthetic aromas or sweeteners to ensure purity. Look for brands like Harmony that provide certificates of analysis on the cbd in their products, offering insight into their effectiveness and confirming the absence of harmful substances.
Legal Considerations and Veterinary Advice
In the UK, CBD products for pets are subject to regulation. They are generally not authorised by the Veterinary Medicines Directorate - meaning your veterinarian must prescribe a legally obtained human CBD product! You shouldn't buy CBD oil for pets without a prescription. Always consult with your vet before beginning any new treatment to ensure it doesn't interact with existing medications and is suitable for your pet's specific health needs.
We wish you and your pet all the best on your health and wellness journey! If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out to us at any time.
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] Gamble LJ, Boesch JM, Frye CW, Schwark WS, Mann S, Wolfe L, Brown H, Berthelsen ES, Wakshlag JJ. Pharmacokinetics, Safety, and Clinical Efficacy of Cannabidiol Treatment in Osteoarthritic Dogs. Front Vet Sci. 2018 Jul 23;5:165. — 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
[3] REVIEW OF CANNABIDIOL - Report of the Science Advisory Committee on Health Products Containing Cannabis. — link to source
[4] 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
