Pet owners, however, struggle to understand the impact and potential use of CBD to help their pets, while veterinarians hesitate to recommend CBD related products siting limited research. Despite this, early anecdotal research on CBD for dogs and cats is promising.
For the remainder of this article, we will discuss CBD research and animal use, how one uses CBD on pets and how it could help your furry friend.
What Does Research Say on CBD Products for Pets?
Unfortunately, not a lot of research is available on CBD for pets. Given that this product line is relatively new in the market, recommendations are based on either past experiences by veterinarians or take-aways from the available studies.
Because we don't know exactly how CBD works on each animal's body chemistry, it's hard to say whether or not there are any long-term effects for pets.
As CBD use in pets continues to grow, the size and number of studies are likely to increase. Hence, the research findings will guide pet owners and vets on how best CBD products can help.
How Do I Use CBD for Pets?
There are several ways to administer CBD to your pet. You can apply it topically, use tinctures or edibles. Of the three options, topical application should be done with caution since your pet may likely lick off the topical application.
CDB Oil
If you're interested in giving your pet some CBD oil, make sure it's made specifically for pets. It’s worth noting, the amount of CBD oil given to your pet is significantly less than that given to a person. CBD oil’s added benefit is that most tincture droppers are calibrated and thus, allowing more precision when dispensing to your pet. It’s advisable to read the product instructions and start slowly, possibly titrating up.
There are several ways you can administer CBD oil for your pet’s needs. You can attempt to add the oil under your pet’s tongue, similarly to what people do. Some add CBD oil to their pet’s paws knowing their pet will lick their paws. Both of these options might be tricky for some pets, and sometimes the best alternative is to add the CBD oil to your pet’s food.
CBD Treats
There are plenty of treats available for your dogs that contain CBD. Many treats in the market combine CBD, with other beneficial ingredients like turmeric, fish oil and glucosamine. These other additives are known to help with inflammation and mobility.
Ingesting any CBD treat has a longer onset than when taking CBD oil sublingually. Further, treats don’t allow for precision in dosing like CBD oil. But they are great tool when you want to add CBD into your pet’s regime.
CBD treats are a good option if you want something quick and easy to get throughout the day. Planning ahead is an important thing to remember when you’re using CBD treats. You want to give enough time for the effects of CBD to be felt.
Is CBD Safe for Dogs and Cats?
Yes, CBD is safe for your pet. Research has suggested CBD is well tolerated by pets. However, the correct amount for dosing is still unknown.
The known effects of CBD on pets includes hypersalivation, lowered blood pressure and tiredness.
Mind Body Hemp always advises discussing the use of CBD for pets with your veterinarian. However, the same is true for any other medication/supplement your pet takes. If you have any concerns about your pet's safety, it's best to consult with your vet first.
It might help to note that the FDA does not regulate the CBD for cats and dogs. Therefore, you should take a personal initiative, understand how CBD products will help your pet and how to deal with the potential side effects.
How Does CBD for Pets Work?
CBD is an all-natural supplement made from hemp and botanical extracts. Even though humans have been using cannabis for thousands of years, we're still learning about it—and how it interacts with our bodies.
We know that CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS). But, the ECS is present in all vertebrates. The ECS is responsible for regulating homeostasis within our bodies and keeping us healthy.
What Does This Mean for Your Pet?
The ECS performs many functions in your pet's body: It helps regulate pain perception and inflammation. Also, it improves mood, and it helps your pet feel more relaxed when exposed to stressful situations like loud noises, unfamiliar people or places.
When you give your pet CBD, it interacts with their ECS. CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) by attaching to cannabinoid receptors on cells throughout your pet's body. It influences neurotransmitter production and receptor activation.
The CBD-ECS interactions are responsible for manifesting the desired effects of CBD on your pet.
Will Your Pet Get High from Using CBD for Pets?
CBD is not psychoactive and will not get your pet high. CBD does not create the same “high” feeling common in THC. Instead, it offers a mellow and relaxed feeling.
THC is present in marijuana and other strains of cannabis, which are all illegal in most states. CBD can be extracted from industrial hemp plants that contain only trace amounts of THC—under 0.3 percent by law. So, your pet won't get high after using CBD products for pets.
How Will I Tell CBD is Working for My Pet?
Because pets cannot tell how they feel, the best way to know if CBD treats are working is to watch over your pet's behavior. After administering CBD doses, keep an eye on it to observe changes. CBD effects may manifest between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on your pet's condition. It may take up to a week or two for CBD effects to manifest fully in other conditions.
CBD's effects differ from one animal to the other. If you notice an improvement in your pet’s symptoms, this is a good sign that you are on the right track. For you to get the best results, it will require utmost patience.
Take Away: CBD for Pets Near Me
Mind Body Hemp sells CBD pet products based on personal experience. All of the CBD oils and pet treats have been used by owner, Dawn Dlouhy for her pet, Daphne. High-quality products are sourced from hemp grown under the best cultivation methods in the US.
You will find products from reliable and reputable companies in our online store. Our potent products will suit your pet, whether it's a CBD tincture or chews. Some of the products in our extensive online store include:
- Hemp dog treats- Large Dog & Small Dog Flavored Treats
- Tincture for Pets- Calming Full-Spectrum Salmon CBD Oil
- CBD Dog Treats- Mobility & Digestion Treat
While sourcing our products, we select companies who also share a passion for CBD. But, before using CBD products on your pet, you should consult your vet-service provider so that they will advise you on the right CBD for your pet. As well, you may consider contacting us!
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