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CBD For Cats Benefits, Risks, and Considerations

If your cat has an illness, you may be drawn to an alternative therapy instead of the one recommended by your veterinarian. Cannabis oil might have caught your attention. But are there any CBD benefits for cats? What are the risks?

Given that some individuals are using cannabis as a natural therapy for their own health issues, this is hardly surprising. However, despite the fact that cannabis has been studied extensively in people, there is yet insufficient official scientific research on its influence on pets.

Is CBD oil safe for your beloved cat companions? What health advantages does it provide?

What Is CBD Oil?

Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of the cannabinoids present in hemp. There are over 144 different cannabinoids, including the well-known tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). But, unlike its cousin THC, CBD does not have psychotropic effects, so it does not alter consciousness or perception.

CBD works in the endocannabinoid system, which is made up of a set of receptors that regulate numerous bodily functions, including appetite, sleep, stress, temperature, acidity. It activates this system in the same way as other cannabinoids do. CBD, in various forms and doses, is being studied for its effects on humans and animals. It has been found to help people with a variety of ailments sleep better, alleviate anxiety, decrease inflammation, ease pain from osteoarthritis, and much more.

Moreover, CBD oil is made up of:

  • To improve its assimilation (fatty substance) and offer healthful nutritional contributions, add vegetable oil (olive, coconut, hemp, etc.).
  • CBD-rich hemp extract

The vegetable oil aids in the body’s absorption of CBD by acting as a carrier. CBD is more efficiently metabolized owing to this fatty substance, allowing it to act faster and remain present in the circulation for longer.

What Are the CBD For Cats Benefits

CBD oil is also claimed to be beneficial for both people and their pets, particularly cats and dogs. However, there isn’t yet enough scientific evidence to back up these ideas. This is why you need to be careful if you decide to use your feline CBD oil. Regardless, you must first consult a veterinarian.

Reported beneficial effects by cat owners include:

  • Pain relief
  • Decreased stress and anxiety
  • Sleep regulation
  • Improved appetite
  • Regulate digestion
  • Better healing of minor wounds
  • Better quality of the animal’s coat
  • Strengthened immune system
  • Helps treat seizures and epilepsy
  • Helps with cancer treatment

Furthermore, according to a 2016 study published in the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association, between 61% and 95% of pet owners who used CBD oil were pleased with the results. CBD is also being used by a growing number of pet and cat owners to treat a disease or ailment identified by a veterinarian, with the most typical illnesses being seizures, cancer, anxiety, and arthritis.

Is CBD Oil for Cats Different Than CBD Oil for Humans?

There are two primary distinctions between CBD oil for people and CBD oil for pets:

The lack of terpenes: Terpenes, a natural component found in the flower or bud of the cannabis plant, were shown to be toxic and even deadly to cats in this research. While there hasn’t been much additional study on this subject, many producers have chosen to eliminate terpenes from their CBD oil for dogs.

The aroma: A scent can be added to CBD oil for cats in order to enhance the aroma. This is intended to improve the smell of the product, allowing your cat to more easily accept it.

Are There Any Side Effects or Risks of CBD Oil for Cats?

CBD oil, like any other alternative therapy, might have unwanted consequences. This substance is generally well tolerated by pets such as cats and dogs when used according to the veterinarian’s instructions. However, some cat owners have noticed odd lethargy in their cats.

CBD oil can induce gastrointestinal disorders, such as diarrhea or vomiting. These effects are commonly seen after abruptly mixing CBD oil into the cat’s diet.

How Much CBD Should I Give to My Cat?

When you start giving your cat CBD oil, take it slowly. Don’t give your pet a large amount of CBD oil from the start. Instead, it’s advised that you gradually integrate the hemp oil into its diet. Using the proper dosage of CBD oil on your pet ensures that he or she will benefit from its benefits without having to endure a negative reaction. You can learn more about dosages here.

However, just because CBD treatments are available over-the-counter doesn’t imply they’re secure.

What to Consider Before Offering CBD Oil to Your Cat

Step 1: Ask Your Veterinarian For Advice

To begin with, you must go to the veterinarian. He will be aware of how to assess if your pet requires it and change his prescription depending on his metabolism and body. Furthermore, if your cat is already on medicine, your veterinarian will be able to explain how CBD oil works with it.

Step 2: Deciding the Dosage

It’s also advised to begin with small dosages to ensure that your cat is tolerating the therapy. If this is the case and you always agree with your veterinarian, you can gradually increase the doses as needed.

Also, the quantity of CBD in each pet dose is determined by your pet’s weight and the problem that has to be treated. As a rule, the smaller your cat and the less severe her condition, the lower the starting effective dosage should be. Most credible pet CBD firms provide products divided into weight or height groups, with suggested dosing rates.

Step 3: How To Give CBD Oil To Your Cat

Follow the instructions for use for any product you choose for your pet. Depending on the item you select for your dog, follow the guidelines on the usage instructions. The oil can be administered in two ways:

  • Directly in the mouth of your animal
  • In his food or his bowl

If your pet is hesitant to consume CBD oil as a spray or dropper, you may also mix it with their food.

Final Thoughts on CBD For Cats Benefits

In conclusion, CBD oil seems to be a source of benefit and comfort for cats and other pets like it is for humans.  However, it is essential to follow the veterinarian’s instructions and use it prudently. Please also remember that, as with any other product, results may vary from one pet to another.

CBD oil for cats is not currently regulated by the Veterinary Medical Board in the United States. This means that there is no official recommended dosage or guidelines on how to use it. However, many pet owners have had success using CBD oil to help their feline friends. If you’re considering giving CBD oil to your cat, be sure to speak with your veterinarian first to get their professional opinion.