CBD oil is growing faster than ever in the wellness market trends. More and more people are starting to discover the power of CBD in human and animal health. Yes, your pets can also benefit from the use of CBD. What is CBD anyway? Research suggests they might. More and more veterinarians are using products containing CBD to reduce pain, anxiety, gastrointestinal issues and seizures in dogs and cats.
Contents
What Is CBD?
CBD or Cannabidiol is a compound naturally found in the cannabis or hemp plant. This compound is known to have relaxing properties and gives therapeutic effects to its users. There have been a lot of misconceptions about CBD in the past, even until now, from people who have not learned enough about CBD.
Many believe that CBD can cause psychoactive effects or you’ll get high if you use CBD. But this belief is false. Why?
There’s one compound in cannabis that is known to create “high” effects on users and that compound is THC. CBD cannot create high or psychoactive effects because it doesn’t have THC.
How Can CBD Help Your Pet?
It’s how CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system of the body. Like humans, some animals like cats and dogs have an endocannabinoid system too. When you take CBD, it interacts with the endocannabinoid receptors in your nervous system and causes the CBD effects you experience. The same thing happens to animals, according to studies.
The calming effect of CBD is proven to work with seizures, anxiety, depression, and stress.
For Some Pets CBD Could Potentially Help With the:
- anxiety- Have you ever noticed your dog getting anxious when you are preparing to go out or getting ready for work? Do you notice some weird behaviours after you leave them for a few hours? Your dog might be suffering from separation anxiety. Seeing your dog struggling while you’re walking away feels heartbreaking. Anxiety can have a huge impact on your pet’s health. They can get anxious with separation, loud noises such as thunderstorms, fireworks, or even just the sound of a vacuum. Giving them vet-formulated CBD can help them calm during these situations. One of the best ways to give CBD to your pet is through treats. CBD Pupper Bites from GETHempd is a beef-flavoured CBD treat your pets can surely enjoy.
- Pain- CBD is also a great pain reliever. Pets can also suffer from body pain for different reasons, such as fractures, arthritis, surgery, etc. Continuous use of CBD can help to relieve the pain or help in treating chronic diseases effectively.
- Stimulating Appetite- If you have trouble getting your pets to eat, CBD could help. According to studies, CBD has been shown to increase appetite.
- Seizure- CBD is often prescribed to epileptic patients since it has shown good results in calming seizures. It works with animals, too. There are many other medicines that you can give to your pet to calm seizures, but most of these medicines are damaging the liver. Again, consult your vet before using CBD.
CBD Products
As the pet CBD market expands, a wide variety of products have become available. Understanding the different types can help you choose the best option for your furry friend:
CBD Oil Tinctures
CBD oil tinctures are one of the most popular and versatile forms of CBD for pets. They typically come in dropper bottles, allowing for easy administration directly into your pet’s mouth or mixed with food. Benefits of CBD oil tinctures include:
- Precise dosing
- Fast absorption
- Flexibility in administration methods
CBD Treats and Chews
For pets who may be reluctant to take oil, CBD-infused treats and chews offer a tasty alternative. These products come in various flavors and formulations, making them an appealing option for picky pets. Advantages of CBD treats include:
- Convenience
- Palatability
- Pre-measured dosing
CBD Capsules
CBD capsules provide a standardized dose of CBD in an easy-to-administer form. They can be given whole or opened and sprinkled over food. Benefits of CBD capsules include:
- Consistent dosing
- No mess or measuring required
- Ideal for pets who don’t like the taste of CBD oil
Topical CBD Products
For targeted relief of skin issues or localized pain, topical CBD products such as balms, creams, and sprays are available. These can be applied directly to the affected area. Advantages of topical CBD products include:
- Localized relief
- Easy application
- Beneficial for skin and coat health
CBD-Infused Pet Foods
Some pet food manufacturers are now incorporating CBD into their products. While this option may be convenient, it’s essential to ensure the food meets your pet’s nutritional needs and provides an appropriate CBD dosage.
The Endocannabinoid System in Pets
Just like humans, our furry friends also have an endocannabinoid system. This system works similarly in pets as it does in humans, helping to maintain homeostasis and regulate various bodily functions. By interacting with the ECS, CBD may offer a range of potential benefits for our animal companions.
Choosing the Right CBD Product for Your Pet
With so many options available, selecting the right CBD product for your pet can feel overwhelming. Consider the following factors when making your choice:
- Quality and Sourcing: Look for products made from high-quality, organically-grown hemp. Reputable companies should provide information about their sourcing and manufacturing processes.
- Third-Party Testing: Choose products that undergo third-party lab testing for purity and potency. Look for a Certificate of Analysis (COA) that verifies the CBD content and absence of contaminants.
- CBD Concentration: Pay attention to the CBD concentration in the product. Higher concentrations may be more cost-effective but require more precise dosing.
- Full-Spectrum vs. Isolate: Full-spectrum CBD products contain a range of cannabinoids and terpenes, which may offer enhanced benefits due to the “entourage effect.” CBD isolate products contain only pure CBD. Consider your pet’s needs and any potential sensitivities when choosing between the two.
- Ease of Administration: Select a product that you can easily give to your pet. If your dog or cat is picky, flavored treats or chews might be the best option.
- Intended Use: Consider why you’re giving CBD to your pet. For example, a topical product might be best for skin issues, while an oil or treat may be more suitable for general wellness support.
Conclusion
CBD for pets represents an exciting frontier in animal health and wellness. While research is still ongoing, many pet owners report positive experiences with CBD in managing various conditions and promoting overall well-being in their furry companions.
It is best to consult your veterinarian before giving your pet CBD for correct dosing or in case there’s an existing health problem, or your pet is taking other medications.