CBD (cannabidiol) is a chemical compound present in hemp plants that belong to the cannabis family. The primary difference between hemp and cannabis is another crucial chemical compound known as THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). Hemp plants do not contain THC, while marijuana has a combination of both THC and CBD. THC does not cause any harm to humans, but in the case of animals, it is toxic when given in large doses. 

CBD has gained immense popularity recently because of the many therapeutic benefits it offers. There has been an influx in various CBD supplements such as oils, moisturizers, lip balms, edibles, etc., for both humans and pets. The common health conditions that CBD helps with are anxiety, chronic pain, insomnia, inflammations, and epilepsy.

[tmh_article_ads]

Why use CBD for pets?

Using CBD for pets is not a new practice. Many dog parents have been using CBD to help their pups with many physical and psychological health conditions. For instance, some dog owners give CBD to their dogs to help them cope with separation anxiety, whereas some use it to alleviate joint pain in most senior dogs. Most of the time, pets get anxious and feel stressed by the sound of the firecrackers. CBD can help to calm them in such situations.

Is CBD safe for cats?

When it comes to cats and CBD, there is little to no research on whether CBD helps cats in the same way. That said, many cat owners are using CBD made from best hash to calm their kittens and help them relax based on other people’s experiences and testimonials. Most of them are experiencing positive results with CBD for pets.

So, let’s look at the benefits of using CBD for cats, so you can analyze and decide whether you should go for it.

See More:

Effect of Anxiety on Pets and 3 Signs Your Pets Might Have Depression
A pet is an animal that is domesticated or kept...

How CBD works

All mammals, including cats and dogs, have an endocannabinoid system (ECS) responsible for various cognitive and psychological processes and sends signals to multiple cells in the body through receptors. CBD (cannabidiol) interacts with two primary cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2, in the ECS and helps alleviate many physical and mental problems.

Benefits of CBD in cats

• Can offer anti-anxiety effects

Cats suffer from anxiety and stress, as well. Especially the ones that live in tiny spaces. The prolonged anxiety and stress may lead to severe health problems for cats. It also affects the usual bodily reactions and overall behavior of the cat. The symptoms of cat anxiety include hypervigilance, salivation, loss of appetite, etc. CBD is very efficient in alleviating anxiety, given its anti-anxiety effects. It reduces cortisol production, making the cat feel calm, as high cortisol levels lead to stress. Moreover, the supplement can also alter the mood by boosting the serotonin levels to help with anxiety.

• Disease prevention

CBD is known for its strong anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties. That means it is capable of preventing various disorders and diseases. Especially in cats, CBD prevents and helps with diabetes. CBD’s anti-inflammatory nature may prevent any inflammation in case of chronic pain or injury as well. Because it shows anti-tumor effects, it can help prevent the spread of cancer. 

• May act as an effective painkiller

Arthritic pain is common in cats as they age. Many people opt for traditional veterinary treatment in such cases. While synthetic medication works to reduce inflammations and alleviate arthritic pain, the metabolism of such drugs creates problems in cats. Moreover, some synthetic medications cause severe side effects in the long run, such as organ damage. 

CBD is an effective pain killer for humans and animals due to its potent anti-inflammatory nature. According to the European Journal of Pain, CBD can help reduce inflammation and pain when applied directly on the skin in case of arthritis.

• Can improve appetite

Several factors cause appetite loss in cats, such as diet modification, the surrounding environment, mood disorders, etc. CBD can interact with the CB1 and CB2 receptors and boost the CB1 transmitters and production of Ghrelin, a hormone responsible for causing hunger in the body. It also alters the mood by acting on the serotonin receptors. Therefore, CBD may increase appetite since mood disorder may also lead to appetite loss. 

See More:

Is CBD Oil Really the Remedy to Insomnia?
Insomnia or sleeplessness is a serious matter. If you are...

How to use CBD for cats?

The first and foremost thing to do before giving CBD to your cat is to discuss it with the veterinarian. CBD affects every individual and animal in different ways. So check whether your cat can withstand the effects of CBD and whether it interferes with any ongoing synthetic medications. Once you have done that, you can give CBD oil to your cat directly with the help of a dropper. 

If you are lucky to have a calm cat, measure the dose and squeeze CBD oil directly on the cat’s tongue. Another way of giving CBD to your cat is by mixing it in their meals or water. 

Final Thoughts

The therapeutic benefits offered by CBD for cats are effective and promising. However, as mentioned above, it is better to consult the veterinarian before making any changes to the cat’s regime. The most crucial factor for CBD use is the dosage, so make sure to give your cat the right amount of the supplement