CBD oil is an increasingly popular topic in pet medicine. Although it’s a novelty item, more and more vets are recommending it for dogs and cats that need it.
What is CBD oil?
Cannabidiol is a component found in cannabis and hemp. CBD oil does not contain THC. So it lacks the psychoactive, hallucinogenic properties found in marijuana, but retains the positive medicinal effects. Which means you can extract the therapeutic benefits without worrying that your cat or dog will be ‘drugged’ with THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). The effects of THC are also felt on pets and there are many cases of marijuana poisoning.
CBD oil effects on pets
Studies are still ongoing on the effects and indications that CBD oil may have on the health and well-being of pets. Dogs’ brains contain a number of receptors with which CBD interacts positively and helps with states such as anxiety, nausea, lack of appetite or pain.
It is hard to determine exactly what the limitations of this product are. So each doctor will have their own opinion on the benefits it might have.
So far, CBD oil has been used successfully in pets in the following situations:
- Pain management
- Epilepsy or epileptiform seizures
- Anxiety
- Kidney disease
- Appetite stimulation
- Vomiting (nausea)
- Inflammation
- Chronic arthritis
Reasons to use CBD oil
So far, we have seen a positive impact of CBD oil on dogs and cats. Feedback from owners who have been recommended the product has again been positive.
Although the exact mechanism of action is not known, the simple fact that the lives of pets can be improved by a few drops taken daily brings joy to owners and veterinarians alike. CBD oil does not replace the necessary treatment for certain diseases (kidney failure, arthritis). But it’s certainly an aid you might consider when it comes to your furry’s quality of life.
Dogs with chronic arthritis have greatly benefited from the effects of CBD oil, similar to the effect of non-steroidal anti-inflammatories. Increased physical activity as well as increased appetite following administration was observed.
And although there is not the same amount of information on the effect of CBD oil for cats veterinarians have begun to recommend it as a natural supplement to help treat a wide range of problems and prevent them from occurring. To date, CBD oil has been used on cats for feeding problems, fur conditions, skin problems, diabetes, anxiety and tumours.
More and more people who have used it claim that CBD oil brings added comfort to animals in certain circumstances. If your cat or dog is experiencing problems such as those mentioned above, you should talk to your vet about a CBD recommendation.
Possible side effects
As with any medicine, there are always potential side effects such as the following ones:
- Dry mouth: research shows that CBD decreases saliva production, which in dogs results in increased water intake (they are thirsty).
- Low blood pressure: high doses of CBD can cause a TEMPORARY drop in blood pressure, which can create a feeling of dizziness.
- Drowsiness: some dog owners have used it for anxiety states, and in higher doses, a tendency to drowsiness has even been observed.
Dosages have not yet been very clearly established. A maximum dose of 5 mg/kg is recommended, but you’ll know best what dose is right for your pet, depending on the condition and the effects you see CBD oil having on them.
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