CBD for Pets: How to Safely Administer CBD Products

Did you know that CBD has been proven to reduce pain and inflammation in both rats and people with arthritis? If you’ve tried it yourself, you know how effective it can be. But, all this begs the question, is CBD safe for your beloved pet? 

Maybe you have a pet with arthritis or an anxious pet. Can you use the relaxing and pain-relieving properties of CBD for pets? The answer is yes, but with a few caveats.

To learn more about how to use CBD to improve the quality of life of your pet, read on!

What Is CBD? 

CBD or cannabidiol is one of the compounds found in the cannabis plant. It’s often confused with its sister compound, THC.

THC, or delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, is the classic compound used in edibles. It provides a high with psychoactive properties.

However, unlike THC, CBD doesn’t give a high. At most, users report a feeling of relaxation. As such, CBD isn’t a controlled substance. 

This means you don’t have to worry about getting your pet high with CBD! 

How Can You Give CBD to Your Pet? 

CBD oil for pets is administered in almost the same way as for humans: edibles and oil. The CBD oil can be baked into tablets or treats for your pets. In addition, you can also get oil that you can apply under the tongue or a topical balm.

Some pets (especially the particularly furry ones!) have a difficult time getting topical CBD oil to take. For that reason, CBD tablets for pets are the easiest way to administer CBD. 

However, some tests have been conducted on CBD absorption after tablets, topical creme, and oil under the tongue. The oil had the highest concentration in the bloodstream after administration and the concentration remained high the longest. If your pet can tolerate it, CBD oil under the tongue is one of the most effective ways to get CBD to work.

CBD Benefits for Pets

CBD works similarly in pets as it does in humans. It’s metabolized by the liver and then activates the endocannabinoid system, which helps promote homeostasis in the body. Exactly how this mechanism works is unknown and is still being studied, but the benefits are well established. 

Pain and Inflammation 

The most-studied effect that CBD has on both animals and humans is pain relief. CBD binds to the receptors in your brain that cause neuropathic pain and inflammation, meaning that it can control these symptoms. 

Chronic inflammation and pain can be eliminated or at least greatly reduced with regular use of CBD.

This is especially true in cases of osteoarthritis in both animals and humans. Arthritis can result in inflamed joints and persistent pain. CBD acts at the very root of these issues and provides a promising treatment path. 

In addition, CBD has been studied for its effects on postoperative pain. Of course, in all these studies an animal can’t communicate exactly how it feels which makes studies difficult to quantify, but all the subjects showed greater energy and more willingness to move around and even play. 

Relaxation

Some dogs have a tendency to get stressed. Maybe your pet is a rescue with a history of abuse. CBD can help them find relief from their anxiety. 

CBD has a light calming effect and will help your dog feel more relaxed and comfortable. 

Seizures 

Several small and preliminary studies have shown promising results for pets with epilepsy. However, although the studies were small and further research is needed, the studies were peer-reviewed and well designed.

This suggests that CBD can help reduce seizures in epileptic pets. 

Safety Concerns

Pure CBD is well tolerated by animals and is a safe substance for both cats and dogs. However, there are a few things you should be aware of before committing to CBD as a treatment plan for your pet. 

Liver Stress

CBD is processed by the liver, which results in an increase in the liver enzyme ALP, or alkaline phosphate. On its own, this isn’t harmful. However, pets with existing liver issues should probably avoid it for fear of developing more serious issues.

The increased ALP could be benign, but it’s best to err on the side of caution. 

THC

The other concern is THC content. While CBD is safe, THC is toxic to both cats and dogs. CBD isn’t strictly regulated, so some supplements might also include a certain amount of THC or other harmful ingredients.

CBD products are required to contain less than 0.3% THC, but this is never a guarantee. It’s best to opt for pet-specific CBD products that contain 0.0% THC such as this cat CBD.  Buying only the best CBD for pets will ensure that your pet doesn’t risk exposure to harmful additives.

It’s also worth keeping an eye on your pet after they take their CBD. If they exhibit any signs of THC poisoning, take them to the vet immediately. These symptoms are:

• Vomiting
• Lethargy
• Restlessness 
• Trouble standing
• Diarrhea

CBD can be a very helpful and safe supplement for your pet’s vitamin routine, but it’s worth making sure you’re getting only quality products. And, because studies on its effects are still ongoing, make sure you keep an eye on your pet and see how they react to it. 

Try CBD for Pets Today!

CBD can offer a healthy, natural treatment for pets with arthritis, epilepsy, or anxiety. As long as you are aware of the caveats outlined in this article, consider trying CBD for pets today! It could greatly improve your furry friend’s quality of life. 

If you enjoyed learning about CBD for pets, we have lots of similar content on our blog. Check it out for more!