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Even the most avid cannabis consumers do not always know that marijuana can also be used for medical purposes in pets. Anecdotal evidence suggests that products made from hemp can benefit pets who struggle with debilitating diseases such as bone cancer.
However, the practice is still not widely known and remains a contentious issue in the scientific field. This article examines the intricacies of using CBD oil for pets and discusses ways to make cannabis treatment safe and effective. The following link is a good example of an online resource containing data about numerous cannabis products for pets: https://askgrowers.com/cbd/cbd-products-for-pets/pet-cbd-oil.
When to Use and Why
CBD oil is made from hemp. It contains very little THC, the component responsible for the “high” effect but dangerous for pets, but enough CBD to have a healing effect. A growing number of CBD oils have been created specifically to address various health problems in pets, mostly cats and dogs. You may consider CBD oils if your pet has one of the following illnesses and conditions:
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Cancer
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Arthritis
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Seizures
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Nausea
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Neuropathy.
You may ask, why would someone use CBD oils if there are prescription medications for pets? Indeed, FDA-approved pet drugs are effective and safe, but it does not mean additional products cannot be used. CBD oils can enhance prescription drugs’ effects and improve your pets’ well-being and quality of life. They are associated with the following benefits:
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Alleviate pain associated with chronic and terminal illnesses;
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Reduce seizures;
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Decrease anxiety;
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Reduce inflammation;
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Relieve gastrointestinal symptoms.
Anecdotal evidence shows that CBD oil can improve the quality of life in pets diagnosed with serious diseases. For example, an article published by the Humane Society of the United States tells the story of a dog owner who reported the positive effects of CBD products on her dog suffering from bone cancer. A study published in a peer-reviewed Journal of the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association (JAHVMA) showed that 72% of pet owners who participated in the survey reported giving hemp products to their gods. More than half of them were convinced that it helped their pets.
What CBD Oils Are Best for Pets
Cannabis dispensaries usually sell a wide variety of CBD oils designed specifically for pets. CBD oils for pets vary according to many parameters:
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Brand
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Price
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Dosage
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Flavor
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Oils for dogs vs. cats
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Form (e.g., treats or drops).
In this way, pet owners can choose products that fit their unique needs. For example, CBD treats with delicious flavors are best for pets that hate taking medicine. Be careful when choosing the product, and do not select an oil based on its price. Take time to check information about the producer and read customers’ feedback before purchasing anything.
Unfortunately, CBD-based products for animals are often inaccurately labeled. Sometimes, labels mention CBD when in reality, the product contains no hemp. Therefore, it makes sense to read product descriptions carefully and select products from popular brands that care about safety and reputation.
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Ask a Vet Live NowBeing Careful with Vet Supplements
Consumption of any over-the-counter supplement, including CBD oil, is unsafe without prior consultation with a specialist. It is highly recommended to see the vet and get your pet diagnosed before giving it any hemp-based products. Keep in mind that vets working in states where marijuana is not legalized cannot give you recommendations about CBD oil consumption. To get reliable information, check the websites of veterinary organizations working in other states. Their experts may be more informed about CBD oil use and can give valuable tips.
The lack of evidence on CBD oil use in pets shows that animal lovers should be very careful with these products. Reputable organizations such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have not yet approved CBD products for pets, as research on their safety and effectiveness is still limited. Therefore, it is important not to use CBD oil as a sole treatment for serious pet diseases such as cancer or chronic arthritis.
Carlton Gyles, Professor of Veterinary Pathobiology, argues that dogs have more cannabinoid receptors in the brain than humans. As a result, they may be more at risk of experiencing the toxic effects of marijuana. It means that dog owners should be particularly careful when selecting and using CBD oils and educate themselves on the difference between marijuana used by humans and hemp-based products designed for pets.
Given all this, we recommend following several rules:
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See the vet first and clarify the diagnosis;
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Get necessary prescriptions first and only then supplement them with CBD oils;
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Do not use CBD oil as a sole treatment for diseases;
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Start with a low dosage and note how your pet responds to hemp;
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Discontinue CBD use if side effects appear;
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Always use CBD oil from reliable producers;
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Educate yourself on hemp products’ use;
CBD oil use in pets is tricky because animals cannot report side effects. So, you need to be attentive and notice the slightest changes in your pet’s behavior to identify these side effects and discontinue treatment if needed.
Final Remarks
The fact that CBD oils for pets have not been researched well does not mean that your pet cannot benefit from them. Science sometimes lags behind practice, so trust yourself and your understanding of the pet’s needs. As long as you seek professional vet help on a regular basis, there is no harm in trying CBD oils as an additional treatment.
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Tom
Tom has always loved to write since he was little - he wanted to be either a writer or a veterinary doctor, but he ended up being a professional writer while most of his works are based on animals. He was born in San Francisco but later moved to Texas to continue his job as a writer. He graduated from the University of San Francisco where he studied biotechnology. He is happily married and a soon to be father!
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