Cbd oils, as well as other cbd products, are often mentioned these days. They can have a positive impact on our health and wellness.
What are cbd products good for pets? Can they work? Is it safe?
It can be difficult sometimes to decipher the marketing hype and get to know the facts about cbd oil for dogs and cats. This reference article will explain everything you need to know about cbd, its potential benefits and what you should do when you talk to your veterinarian or shop for products.
Differences between Hemp and Marijuana.
Both marijuana, hemp, and cannabis are forms of the cannabinol sativa tree. Both cbd and marijuana contain THC, but there is a major difference in their cbd levels.
Hemp contains less that 0.3 percent THC as a dry weight at harvest. Marijuana has more than 0.3 percentage THC.
Can cbd make my pet happy?
Cbd is the nontoxic ingredient in hemp and marijuana. Cannot get you or your pets high like THC. When taken as directed.
Cbd is known to have a positive effect on the brain activity of pets. This could result in some potential benefits for them, such as reducing stress and anxiety.
Pets should never receive an intoxicating amount of THC. Discuss your veterinarian’s instructions regarding dosage, and avoid using products not specifically designed for pets.
Cbd is safe for pets and cats.
Cbd products can be safely administered to dogs and cats according to multiple studies. Numerous veterinary studies that have been published in the last two years show that cbd products are safe even for high dosages.
Potential advantages of cbd for pets
Hemp-derived cbd products to pets are still in development. As such, the scientific verdict remains out about what cbd can or cannot do for pets.
Hemp-derived products also work in tandem with a pet’s natural endocannabinoid (natural hormone system) which helps regulate many of the body’s various functions in dogs and cats.
Based on both human- and veterinary literature, cbd may also help pets in one of these ways:
- Anti-inflammatory (i.e. Hypersensitivity, dermatitis)
- A reduction in pain
- Sensitivity to seizures and convulsions
- Immune system support (i.e. autoimmune disease, and cancer
- Nervous system support
- Cardiovascular system support
- The reduction of anxiety
- Gastrointestinal support
Anecdotal evidence also supports the use hemp-derived cbd products in pets. A 2018 survey indicated that pet owners support hemp cbd products and treats for their pets due to the perceived improvement in pain, inflammation, stomach problems, and sleep. A few peer-reviewed studies found that cbd oil extracted from hemp was beneficial for dogs suffering from osteoarthritis.
How do cats and dogs respond to cbd?
Research is still needed to determine the effects of phytocannabinoids (plant-based cannabinoids and synthetic cannabinoids) on the endocannabinoid and endocannabinoid systems in pets.
Two major types cannabinoid receptive systems are found in a pet’s body, cb1 (the first) and cb2 (the second). These receptors work to regulate and balance a pet’s immune and central nervous system. This can influence the levels of inflammation, pain and mood.
The three main components that make up the endocannabinoid process are the receptors as well as the endocannabinoids. The endocannabinoids, chemical compounds naturally produced in a pet’s skin, are produced on demand and bind directly to the receptors. This is especially important during stress, disease, injury, or other stressful times.
