CBD Usage for Pets: Advantages, Applications, and Key Considerations
Cannabidiol (CBD), a chemical compound derived from hemp or marijuana plants, is making waves in the pet care industry. Broad-spectrum CBD products for pets, which exclude THC after initial extraction, are becoming increasingly popular due to their potential benefits.
Understanding CBD and Its Extraction
CBD isolate is the purest form of CBD, extracted from the plant and containing only CBD. On the other hand, broad-spectrum CBD products for pets contain all the compounds naturally found in the original hemp plant, including cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids.
Topical CBD Products for Local Relief
Topical CBD products, designed to alleviate local conditions such as aches and skin issues, are effective due to the cannabinoid receptors found in a pet's skin. When applying a topical CBD product, it's recommended to place it on a non-haired area (or a shaved area) and ensure the pet does not lick the site for at least 30-45 minutes.
CBD Capsules for Easy Administration
CBD capsules, suspended in a gel capsule, are popular options for pets that are adverse to the taste of CBD oil or who are picky eaters. Ideal for traveling, these capsules allow for accurate dosing, although their absorption may not be as easy as CBD oil.
CBD Treats and Chews for Palatable Dosing
CBD treats and chews are a convenient way to give CBD extract to pets. Made similarly to CBD oils but infused into a treat or chew, these products are often easier for pets to consume, although the dose cannot be easily adjusted.
The Endocannabinoid System and CBD
The endocannabinoid system (ECS), a unique communications system in the brain and body, affects many important functions, including how a pet feels, moves, and reacts. CBD acts on the ECS of both humans and pets, including dogs and cats.
Safety and Efficacy of CBD for Pets
Scientific studies on the safety and efficacy of CBD for dogs and cats indicate promising benefits, especially in dogs, while research on cats remains limited but emerging.
Safety Findings
Multiple studies show that CBD is generally well-tolerated by healthy adult dogs, including after long-term use (up to 6 months) and dose escalation, with few or no serious adverse effects reported. Safety evidence for cats is limited, but preliminary data suggest CBD-rich hemp is safe in healthy cats.
Efficacy Findings
CBD has been shown to reduce pain, particularly neuropathic and osteoarthritic pain, and has anti-inflammatory properties. It may help manage anxiety-related behaviors, including aggression and noise phobias, and promote calmness. Studies indicate anticonvulsive effects, with one dog study suggesting up to 89% efficacy in reducing epilepsy seizure frequency.
Additional Context
The quality and safety of CBD products depend heavily on proper lab testing to ensure potency, purity, and absence of harmful contaminants. CBD does not cause a psychoactive "high" in pets. Optimal dosing is not fully standardized, with clinical studies suggesting doses ranging from 2 to 10 mg/kg body weight are typically safe.
In summary, CBD shows a good safety profile and potential efficacy in managing pain, seizures, anxiety, and other conditions in dogs, with encouraging but more limited data for cats. Continued research is necessary, especially for feline use, and pet owners should consult veterinarians and choose lab-tested products to ensure safety and proper dosing.
A 2018 survey revealed that pet owners endorsed hemp CBD treats and products because of perceived improvement in numerous ailments including pain, inflammation, anxiety, digestive system issues, and aid with sleep. The benefit of using a CBD chew is that it is easier to administer because pets usually enjoy the taste, but the dose can't be incrementally adjusted.
- CBD, found effective in alleviating pain and managing anxiety-related behaviors in pets, interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) present in both dogs and cats.
- In addition to treatment for medical-conditions like pain and anxiety, CBD is also gaining popularity in the health-and-wellness lifestyle, with many pet owners using CBD chews for their pets due to the convenience and palatable nature of these products.
- To ensure the safety and efficacy of CBD for pets, it is essential to choose lab-tested CBD products, as they are more likely to have accurate dosing and are free from harmful contaminants, inspiring a growing interest in the application of CBD in fitness-and-exercise routines, as well as overall science and pet care.
