Cannabidiol, more commonly known as CBD has been rising in popularity recently since it is legal on all levels and has many proven health benefits. Even professional athletes are turning to the non-psychoactive cannabinoid as part of their recovery plan. Currently, there are no published scientific studies on the effectiveness of CBD for cats specifically, however some research has been done on dogs and other animals and most veterinarians agree that our feline companions may also benefit from the medicinal properties of CBD.
Is CBD ok for cats?
Don’t worry, your cat won’t be zoned out or stuck on the couch for hours because CBD oil will not make your cat high and has no psychoactive effects. CBD is one of many cannabinoids, chemical compounds produced naturally by the cannabis plant. While THC (another cannabinoid) is responsible for feeling baked, CBD does not share these same properties and is often used by working professionals and parents who need to stay alert.
While there are no scientific studies regarding the use of CBD for cats, most veterinarians consider it to be safe if the product is lab tested and dosed properly. Some cats experience mild side effects like an upset stomach or extreme sleepiness. If this happens to your cat, simply stop using CBD or dramatically lower the dosage. Pet CBD and most human CBD oil is extracted from the hemp plant. Hemp is the same species as marijuana, but unlike pot plants, hemp is rich in CBD and does not produce high levels of THC. Any level of THC can be dangerous for animals, so always use CBD products that are specifically designed for pets and don’t forget to consult your vet before starting treatment.
CBD for cats benefits
Humans use CBD for a variety of reasons, many of which are thought to work on our feline friends as well. CBD is thought to treat health-related issues such as anxiety, depression, epilepsy, insomnia, inflammation, pain, and side effects of cancer treatment in adults. Cats can also benefit from CBD in these ways, however the most common reasons pet owners give cats CBD is for anxiety, aggression, and as a cancer treatment.
CBD for cats with anxiety
Just like in humans, our pets can also get extreme anxiety. Cats show that they are feeling anxious in a variety of ways. Some of the most common signs your cat has anxiety are pacing or restlessness, vocalization, hiding, difficulty eating, showcasing extreme vigilance, trembling or shaking, and excessive grooming. Anxiety in cats is often caused by changes in environment such as new people or animals in the house, moving to a new place or home, and traveling (like going to the vet, groomer, or a long car ride). CBD may be able to help ease your cat’s anxiety just like it does for pet owners.
CBD for pain and inflammation
Like any animal, cats can develop chronic pain from arthritis and other degenerative diseases as they age that can cause constant aches. While this is a normal part of the aging process, CBD may be able to alleviate these issues. There are many studies showing the effectiveness of cannabis for pain and inflammation in humans, which may also translate to cats and other pets.
How to give a cat CBD
Pet owners typically choose to give their cats CBD in the form of oil. Not only is this method highly concentrated and will last a long time, CBD oil can be flavored, making it a tasty treat for your pet. Put the oil directly into your cat’s mouth with the dropper if they allow it. If not, mix the CBD oil into food or treats. We recommend the Hemplucid Full-Spectrum CBD Oil For Cats. This cat CBD oil tastes like fish, which your pet will love.
CBD oil dosage for cats
Just like with humans, dosing cannabis is extremely important. Start with the lowest dose of CBD and monitor its effects. Begin CBD treatment with just one to two milligrams of CBD per 10 pounds of body weight. The average cat weighs between eight to 10 pounds, so do not exceed two milligrams of CBD oil.
Since cats can’t tell you if the CBD is working, make sure to keep a log of the date and time, dosage given, and observations of your cat throughout the day. If you do not see any change in your cat’s condition after a week, slowly increase the dose by one milligram and observe for another week before continuing to increase the dosage. Never give your cat more than 5 milligrams per 10 pounds of body weight.
Are you looking for other pet CBD products or maybe even thinking about experimenting with CBD yourself? Visit our brand new CBD store on our online headshop and don’t forget to scoop up some dry herb vaporizers, water pipes, herb grinders, or rolling papers while you’re there.
