CBD for Pets, is it effective?

CBD is a very relevant element in alternative medicine nowadays thanks to numerous studies that avail its health benefits with anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective and anti-seizure properties. Plenty of people wonder whether considering CBD for their pets is the right option or not. In July 2018, a clinical trial examined dogs with arthritis and the obtained results were very encouraging: more than 80% of dogs showed a significant pain decrease and movement improvement.

Like humans, pets also have an endocannabinoid system that regulates essential functions like blood pressure, respiratory frequency and glucose levels. A series of cannabinoid and endocannabinoid receptors interact between them to offer the body a stable inner environment. The most common ones are CB-1, in charge of brain processes, and CB2, which functions as an anti-inflammatory agent.

Products with high CBD ratios mainly derive from industrial hemp or cannabis plants rich in this substance, thus, they have little to none tetrahydrocannabinol content, the main psychoactive constituent.

Correct CBD dosage and best administration method

How to administer CBD to pets

Generally, CBD for pets is given orally. The easiest way is to use a droplet in order for them to ingest it, however, this task could become hard if the animal doesn’t behave properly. Plenty of pet owners opt for spreading it over treats or dog food so they take it without noticing it. In case of external problems like wounds, skin rashes or cankers, an ointment could be used instead.

Appropriate CBD dosage for pets

An overdose of CBD could cause secondary effects but unfortunately, scientific conclusions about perfect doses are yet not conclusive, thus, the idoneous amount for each species can not be assured. The general recommendation, which seems to be working so far, is to administer one cannabidiol drop with a 5% ratio per every 5 kg of body weight.

Before treating pets with this substance, a vet should be consulted as expert guidelines should be followed during this process for each individual case. These are only general expert recommendations:

• 1 drop per every 5 kg once a week.

• Increase to twice a week if necessary.

• Continue with that dose for an entire week.

• If necessary, increase the dose again to three times a week.

• Carefully monitor pets’ behavior to prevent non desired secondary effects.

CBD overdose in dogs

CBD overdose could cause side effects, unfortunately, scientific conclusions about the optimal dosage are not yet conclusive enough, so the ideal amount for each species cannot be assured. The general rule of thumb recommended, and which is giving good results so far, is to give one drop of cannabidiol at a ratio of 5% per 5 kg of body weight.

Benefits of CBD for Pets

Treat anxiety

Although hard to believe, dogs are extremely susceptible to these kinds of conditions. Depression and anxiety manifest when there is a chemical imbalance of the prefrontal cortex, the brain part in charge of emotions. Various medical researches have shown that this substance can stabilize and equilibrate the characteristic chemical fluctuation of these disorders.

Dogs suffer anxiety for varied reasons such as separation from their owners, sounds louder than 75 decibels, electric storms, etc, which alter their nervous system. CBD reduces high anxiety levels by interacting with serotonin and adenosine receptors, both neurotransmitters that help regulate mood and social behavior.

Kill cancer cells

In humans, CBD is an efficient alternative to help treat tumors in cancer patients. Studies suggest that it stops cancer cells growth. However, animal studies and investigations are still scarce in order to affirm the effectiveness of this element.

This substance seems to alleviate nausea in dogs receiving chemotherapy, which suggests that these patients could benefit from CBD use.

Appetite regulation

Cannabidiol can decrease nausea and stimulate appetite due to its interaction with glucocorticoids, the hormone in charge of increasing hunger. This makes it especially beneficial in animals with systemic illnesses. The body needs a constant energy contribution, which comes through food. A poor and unbalanced diet can have serious health consequences and diminish pets’ quality of life.

Reliefs pain and stops seizures

The vanilloid receptor, located among neuronal cells, is responsible for controlling inflammation and pain in dogs and cats. The interaction of CBD blocks and efficiently prevents the body from perceiving pain.

On the other hand, seizures are the interruption of electrical activity. In animals it is usually the cause of the inflammation of the meninges in the brain; which is often caused by viral infections, like ehrlichiosis or toxoplasmosis. Furthermore, recent studies prove that cannabidiol use can significantly reduce the amount and intensity of these nervous system electric discharges.

CBD oil offers countless benefits for pets. However, administering the right dose is crucial in order to prevent secondary effects and ensure their well-being.