Animals and humans are not that different. Just like us, cats can suffer from anxiety and depression. Just like us, dogs can suffer from arthritis. So it's no surprise that our four-legged friends, just like their owners, can find relief and benefits from cannabidiol (CBD).
However, applying CBD safely and effectively to pets comes with important considerations, from dosage to product selection. Explore what the latest research is revealing about this new frontier in cannabis-based treatments, and explore a roadmap for responsible CBD use for pet owners.
The science behind CBD for pets
First things first – administering CBD to animals can have significant benefits. Again, just like in humans, non-psychoactive phytocannabinoids can bring about a variety of positive changes due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
In companion animals, CBD has good bioavailability, minimal side effects, and appears to be well tolerated by pets when administered at appropriate doses, according to a report in the Annual Review of Animal Biosciences. is. Studies in dogs have shown the potential benefits of CBD for conditions such as osteoarthritis, dermatitis, and epilepsy. Meanwhile, in other studies focused on cats, scientists are examining anecdotes and exploring potential applications for conditions such as pain, anxiety, and behavioral problems.
Even better news is that companion animals tend to respond well physically to this compound. In a 90-day study on beagles, Frontiers in Veterinary Science found that cannabinoids were well-tolerated and adverse events were extremely rare, approximately 2 per million doses. They found that the likelihood of serious events was even lower, at 0.01 per million. Based on this and other studies, researchers report that a dose of 5 mg/kg body weight/day of hemp-derived cannabinoids is optimal for healthy dogs. Another study published in the same journal found that for cats, the appropriate dose is 4 mg/kg body weight/day.
However, and this is important, factors such as dose must be carefully calculated and administered. Despite the similarities noted, animals are still animals and have different physiological needs than humans. So, let's take a look at the main factors pet owners should keep in mind if they want to improve their pet's health with CBD.
The correct way to apply CBD to your pet
There are some best practices to keep in mind. First, as we mentioned earlier, choosing the right dose is of paramount importance. Consult your veterinarian before giving CBD to your dog and consider the animal's weight. A good rule of thumb when administering CBD to dogs is 6 drops of oil per 10 pounds of the animal's weight. Of course, keep an eye on the other person's reactions and go slow and steady. For example, it's ideal to start this health routine with just a few drops and increase it over time.
Next, look for full-spectrum CBD. These types of products are comprised of the most complete extracts of the hemp plant, including all cannabinoids and terpenes, and introduce other beneficial and supportive compounds to the animal. The latest research shows that the various elements of the plant work together to create an 'entourage effect', influencing an animal's endocannabinoid system more effectively as a group than individually.
Third, read the label. All the information you need about recipes, producers and products is here. The types of ingredients that work well in human products may not always work well in animal products, so make sure the formulation is animal-specific. Similarly, look at what the product says about organic approval checks and third-party testing for purity and potency. If this kind of information isn't here or is difficult to understand, that's a red flag.
The wrong way to apply CBD to pets
Unfortunately, there are bad actors in this market, and there are certain things you should not do as a consumer and pet owner.
First, if the aforementioned information is not easily accessible or readily available, do not purchase the product. Thanks to weak regulation and oversight, this is a cowboy market where some unscrupulous producers remain active. Particularly egregious is the fact that some products do not properly test the CBD content of their products. This is not only irresponsible for them, but also potentially dangerous for your animal. Again, what the label does and does not disclose should be a good indicator of the product and producer. If the product above does not mention testing, please contact us directly and ask about testing.
Don't be fooled by the price. Particularly lower-priced products may cut corners or use harsh chemical processes to isolate cannabis compounds. This is good for your wallet, but not so good for your pet. Instead, choose products based on quality. Your best friend deserves only the best.
Of course, don't forget to do your due diligence. This market needs to be monitored, especially when it comes to pet health and welfare. Read reviews, research online, and ask other pet owners for recommendations. You'll quickly find out which brands look and sound right and which don't.
But the advantages outweigh the disadvantages
While it's important to be aware of the potential risks and take precautions, the benefits of CBD for pets are becoming increasingly clear. With diligent research and insight, pet owners can navigate this emerging market to find quality products that truly benefit their animals. The potential to improve an animal's physical health, mental health, and overall quality of life makes CBD an attractive option worth considering.
Due to their sensitive nature, dogs and cats may particularly benefit from carefully measured introduction to CBD. Its uses are wide-ranging and promising, from managing chronic diseases to alleviating anxiety. However, as with any new treatment, it is important to proceed thoughtfully and ideally under the guidance of your veterinarian. If approached responsibly, introducing CBD to your pet can be a step worth taking.
About the author
Scott Mazza is co-founder and COO of Vitality CBD (Buffalo, NY). Coming from a background in finance, Scott is well-versed in the benefits of hemp and is passionate about providing people with natural alternatives to pharmaceuticals.
