CBD for Dogs Vs. CBD for Cats

As more people realize how helpful CBD may be, there is an increase in the number of CBD products on the market. Pet owners, particularly those with cats and dogs, are asking if CBD may be used on their animals.

Are there any differences between using CBD for cats and dogs? Dogs and cats can use CBD in pretty much the same way. However, whether you want to give your cat or dog drops or CBD oil depends. CBD oils are made through the extraction of various essential oils found on the leaves, stems, and roots of the hemp plant. This yields different CBD extracts with varying concentration levels and different compound compositions. These varying extracts can treat other issues related to pets, such as pain and inflammation, and tackle various skin-related conditions. Below is some information on how CBD can be used on dogs and cats.

CBD for Dogs

There hasn't yet been a formal investigation on the effects of CBD on dogs. According to Aguirre-Rueda et al. (2015), cannabinoids interact with the endocannabinoid receptors found in the peripheral and central nervous systems, which support the body's ability to remain balanced and healthy. This is because cannabinoids interact with the endocannabinoid system in humans, which is thought to likewise interact with dogs. When dog owners think of using CBD on their animals, they usually do so in the form of topical creams. Kim (2019) explained that these creams are more effective at reducing inflammation and pain than oral supplements. They are also more affordable than oils or tinctures as they only contain a single ingredient. Many veterinary-approved topical products also have added essential oils that benefit pets' skin. These are great to use on older dogs and dogs with allergies as they tend to soothe irritation in the skin. However, remember that transdermal products like creams take much longer to work than oral supplements like oil. Moreover, creams can take up to a month to see noticeable results, while it only takes a few hours to feel the effects of a tincture or drop. That being said, if you also have an aching back and are planning to use your dog's topical cream to relieve your pain, you'll feel the effects of the cream more quickly than the effect of the drop due to the higher concentration. Topical creams take longer to act. However, they last longer than oils and tinctures. Using them a few times a week will help keep your puppy feeling better for longer. If you prefer a more holistic approach to provide your dog CBD, you can also try giving them drops instead. These come in higher concentrations and are easier to dose as you add them to their food or water.

CBD for Cats

The benefits of CBD in humans are now widely recognized and used worldwide to improve health and wellbeing. According to Anderson & Thayer (2021), CBD oil is quickly becoming a staple in modern society for its safe, natural, and holistic use. Despite its growing popularity, cannabidiol or CBD has only recently begun to make waves in the veterinary world. So why should you consider using CBD for your cat?

Kogan, Hellyer & Downing (2020) suggested that cannabinoids such as CBD could help a wide range of conditions commonly experienced by cats, including stress and anxiety-related behaviors, pain and inflammation, and joint pain, and digestive issues. CBD offers numerous benefits to your favorite furry friend. These include;

Arthritis

The progressive deterioration of the cartilages between cats' bones is the main cause of feline arthritis. They find it unpleasant to move. Therefore they remain still. They are accustomed to climbing tables, running around the house, and being active, which can significantly negatively impact your cat's physical and mental health. Khaleghi (2020) suggested that CBD is useful in easing the symptoms of arthritis. First, it can aid in relieving joint inflammation, significantly reducing discomfort. Those who experience chronic pain have reported that CBD helps to lessen it. Moreover, CBD can shield the body's nerves from additional harm.

Anxiety

Although some worry keeps your cat busy, it is not healthy for them to remain this way. After all, physical illnesses brought on by anxiety can significantly lower a person's quality of life. This holds even for cats that only sometimes encounter this due to their surroundings, such as when guests from out of town stop by, fireworks display, or when you move into a new location. Everyone in the house may experience stress since anxious cats are highly wary of everyone, including their owners. In addition, they can start attacking other cats and stop using their litter box. An in-depth study is currently being done on CBD to determine whether it could be a useful anxiolytic or anti-anxiety drug. After all, this is supported by numerous early findings and anecdotal evidence. To keep cats from feeling worried, CBD lowers the release of cortisol (the stress hormone). It is particularly beneficial because it can be used temporarily and as a regular health supplement.

Reduces Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Lastly, IBD, often known as inflammatory bowel disease, affects cats frequently. When the microbiota in their gut becomes out of balance, this occurs. These cats have irregular bowel movements and have a hard time urinating. They experience the energy and weight loss and vomiting. Cats can benefit from CBD by having these inflammations under control. Additionally, there is proof that it can aid in preventing cancers in the gastrointestinal tract.

Conclusion

CBD is helpful to cats and dogs in numerous ways, such as offering relief from osteoarthritis and inflammation. In particular, cats and dogs have also been found to have an endocannabinoid system which is key to the effectiveness of CBD in treating various health issues. However, most of these findings stem from preliminary results, so more studies are needed. That said, always consult a veterinary doctor before using CBD to treat some of the mentioned issues, as some pets are allergic to cannabinoids and their related products.

References

Aguirre-Rueda, D., Guerra-Ojeda, S., Aldasoro, M., Iradi, A., Obrador, E., Mauricio, M. D., ... & Valles, S. L. (2015). WIN 55,212-2, agonist of cannabinoid receptors, prevents amyloid β1-42 effects on astrocytes in primary culture. PloS one, 10(4), e0122843.

Anderson, A., & Thayer, J. (2021). Natural vs. Novel Cannabinoids. American Journal of Essential Oils and Natural Products, 9(2), 15-23.

Khaleghi, M. (2020). New arthritis foundation guidelines on CBD use could be first of many more to come. Alternative therapies in health and medicine, 26, 8-11.

Kim, J. H., Kim, K., & Kim, W. (2019). Cream cheese-derived Lactococcus chungangensis CAU 28 modulates the gut microbiota and alleviates atopic dermatitis in BALB/c mice. Scientific reports, 9(1), 1-13.

Kogan, L., Hellyer, P., & Downing, R. (2020). The use of cannabidiol-rich hemp oil extract to treat canine osteoarthritis-related pain: a pilot study. AHVMA J, 58, 1-10.