Is CBD For Dogs and Cats Okay?
Introduction to CBD for dogs and cats:
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a one of the two main compounds found in the cannabis plant. The other one is THC, which is the substance responsible for the “high” in people. The other one, CBD, has many potential health benefits for dogs and cats. It is non-psychoactive, meaning it does not produce the “high”, and as a result, animals can take advantage of the physical health benefits. Recently, CBD has become a natural treatment option for animals as it can help reduce many issues in dogs and cats, including pain, anxiety, seizures, and inflammation.
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History of CBD for animals:
CBD was discovered in the 1940s and during the 60s, the effects of CBD were tested in primates and mice. Specific research on dogs or cats is very limited, even when the recent surge in popularity of CBD for human use has made it a treatment option for pets. As more and more people have turned to CBD to help manage their health issues, they have also begun to consider its use for their pets.
How to give CBD to your pets:
Several different forms of CBD are made for pets, including oil, treats, capsules, balms, and peanut butter. For starters, oils are easier to dose properly but the most appropriate form will depend on your dog’s size, age, and needs. As always, make sure you follow the dosage and frequency recommendations from the manufacturer or your vet.
Potential health benefits of CBD for dogs:
- Pain relief: CBD has pain-relieving properties! It is effective in reducing pain and discomfort in dogs. Pain reduction can increase mobility for dogs with hip problems. It also helps older pets with general pain.
- Anxiety and stress reduction: CBD has a calming effect on dogs and cats. It may help reduce anxiety and stress in pets, especially in loud environments. It can also help with separation anxiety in pets.
- Improve seizure frequency and severity: CBD may effectively reduce the frequency and severity of seizures in dogs. This option can be excellent for pets with difficulty taking vet-prescribed medications.
- Improve appetite and weight gain: CBD helps stimulate appetite and promote weight gain in dogs. Hunger effects from CBD can be helpful for underweight pets or having a poor appetite.
Safety and side effects of CBD for dogs:
As with humans, some risks come with using certain medications. Some side effects can happen, such as dry mouth, diarrhea, and drowsiness.
In most cases, the side effects are mild or disappear over time. If they not, you should contact your pet’s veterinarian and keep a close eye on your pet to make sure they don’t hurt themselves. In case of doubts, discuss CBD with your veterinarian and always watch your dog for adverse reactions.
Legal considerations of CBD for pets:
The legal status of CBD for pets varies by state and country. In the United States, the Farm Bill of 2018 legalized the cultivation and sale of CBD at the federal level. Yet, some states have stricter laws about the use of CBD. Therefore, it is vital to be aware of these laws when considering giving CBD to your dog. It is also important to buy CBD from a reputable source, as the quality and safety of CBD products can vary.
Future outlook for CBD and dogs:
As CBD becomes more accepted, more information will be released about its safety. Studies are underway to prove the impact of CBD in oncology and dermatology issues. Pet owners must consider the benefits of CBD and use good judgment if it is right for them.
