In recent years, cannabidiol (CBD) has gained popularity as a natural remedy for various health issues in humans, but did you know it can also benefit your pets? This article explores the benefits, safety, and usage of CBD for pets and will help you make informed decisions about incorporating CBD into your pet’s wellness routine. For more information, check out CBD for Pets UK.
What is CBD, and How Does it Work for Pets?
CBD is a compound extracted from the hemp plant, and unlike THC, it is non-psychoactive, meaning it won’t make your pet feel “high.” The body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) helps regulate various bodily functions, and CBD interacts with this system to promote balance and homeostasis in the body, making it a suitable option for both humans and pets.
Benefits of CBD for Pets
- Anxiety and Stress Relief: CBD can help pets who experience separation anxiety, noise phobias, or stress from new environments. Studies suggest that CBD works by regulating the ECS to help reduce stress responses.
- Pain and Inflammation Management: For older pets or those with joint pain, arthritis, or inflammatory conditions, CBD can provide relief from chronic pain, improving their quality of life.
- Seizure Reduction: Research has shown that CBD may reduce the frequency and severity of seizures, especially in dogs with epilepsy. In fact, some pet owners have reported fewer seizures after introducing CBD to their pets’ routines.
- Promotes Healthy Skin and Coat: CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce skin irritations and improve coat health, making it a valuable addition to pets’ skincare routines.
- Improves Appetite and Digestion: CBD can aid pets experiencing digestive issues by promoting a healthy appetite and reducing symptoms of nausea.
Is CBD Safe for Pets?
CBD is generally well-tolerated by pets, but quality and dosage are crucial. Always purchase high-quality, pet-specific CBD products from reputable sources like CBD UK’s CBD for Pets, as they contain appropriate dosages and are often flavored to appeal to pets.
How to Administer CBD to Your Pet
- Choosing the Right Product: CBD oil, capsules, treats, and topical creams are common options. CBD oil is versatile and allows for precise dosing, but treats may be more convenient for finicky pets.
- Determining the Right Dosage: Start with a low dose (0.2mg per pound of your pet’s weight) and gradually increase based on their response and veterinarian’s recommendations.
- Monitoring Effects: Observe your pet’s behavior and adjust the dosage if needed. It’s normal for effects to take a few days to become noticeable, so be patient and consistent.
Potential Side Effects of CBD in Pets
While rare, side effects may include:
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Low blood pressure If any adverse reactions occur, reduce the dose or discontinue use and consult your vet.
What forms of CBD are available for dogs?
If your veterinarian gives you the OK to give your dog CBD, there are a range of products made specifically for pets, including:
- Oils
- Tablets or capsules
- Treats
- Lotions
- Gels
- Creams
CBD oils are often given to dogs by mouth or under the tongue. Bottled oils with droppers can be a good option when you first start giving CBD to your dog. This makes it easier to increase the dosage slowly, rather than being limited to a fixed amount in a tablet, capsule, or treat.
Are human CBD products safe for dogs?
It’s safer not to give your dog CBD products intended for humans. If a product is not made specifically for pets, it is important to double-check the label for ingredients that can be toxic to dogs, such as chocolate, certain essential oils, and artificial sweeteners.
Besides being made without these harmful ingredients, pet-specific, oral CBD products — like chicken and fish chews — are usually flavored with your dog in mind. Though, some have a grassy taste that may be less appealing to your pup. If you find your dog turning their nose up at the product you’ve chosen, try disguising it in a spoonful of peanut butter or their treat of choice.
What CBD dosage should be used for dogs?
Because of a lack of research and the fact that there aren’t any FDA-approved CBD products for pets, it’s hard to say what the proper dosage is for dogs.
One study looked at whether CBD oil helped reduce symptoms of arthritis in dogs. The researchers found that 2 mg of CBD per kilogram of body weight given twice a day reduced pain without perceived side effects. However, blood test results suggested that some of the dogs may have experienced liver damage. This is why it’s important that your vet is involved in making sure that your dog is being monitored appropriately.
If your veterinarian recommends CBD for your dog, make sure to follow their instructions closely. Your vet can help you figure out the correct dosage, which may depend on why your dog is taking CBD. As with humans who have never taken CBD before, it is important to start your dog with a low dosage and then raise it slowly, if needed.
For example, your vet may recommend giving your dog ¼ or ½ of the dose on a product’s label to see how they react to a small amount of CBD. If they don’t have any negative reactions, your vet may suggest slowly increasing the dose until your dog shows signs of improvement.
How can you tell if CBD is helping your dog?
Because your dog can’t tell you they feel better, the most reliable way to tell if CBD is working is to watch how they behave. After giving your dog a dose of CBD, keep a close eye on whether their symptoms seem to be improving or not. Depending on your dog’s condition, symptom relief may happen in as soon as 30 minutes or take up to a few weeks of consistent use.
CBD impacts every animal differently. If your vet recommends that you give it a try, you may go through several brands, dosages, or forms to find what works for your four-legged companion. Although finding the right fit requires patience, it’s worth it if your dog benefits from CBD.
Conclusion: Finding the Right CBD Product for Your Pet
CBD offers a natural way to support your pet’s health and well-being. By choosing high-quality products from trusted brands like CBD for Pets UK and following recommended dosing guidelines, you can help your pet enjoy a happier, healthier life.
