Every cat owner wants the best for their feline companions. Maintaining their happiness and health ensures that they will thrive in their environment. CBD oil, a natural treatment that can help improve the quality of life for those suffering from pain, anxiety, or other conditions, is the newest sensation to hit the pet market. But is it secure? Continue reading to discover more about CBD oil for cats, including its ingredients, advantages, dosing, and other details.
WHAT EXACTLY IS CBD OIL?
Cannabidiol (CBD) is an active element in the cannabis plant, according to PetMD. You may be wondering if my cat will get high if the CBD comes from a cannabis plant. No, it does not. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the most well-known component of the cannabis plant. THC is the substance responsible for the “high” experienced by users. CBD, unlike THC, has no psychotropic effect. A cannabis product is considered a hemp plant if it contains less than 0.3% THC. CBD oils are extracted from hemp and offer medicinal assistance as well as a level of mild relaxation without producing a high. Giving CBD oil to a cat is not a permanent treatment for all problems, but it can provide temporary comfort.
WHAT EFFECT DOES CBD OIL HAVE ON CATS?
It is crucial to understand that every cat is unique. This implies that just because your neighbor’s cat did well with CBD, your cat may not. CBD has the ability to lower and regulate the production of a stress hormone, cortisol, which is important for anxiety relief. Cats, like humans, experience anxiety. Even in a happy environment, triggers or situational changes might cause a cat’s behavior to shift. Past trauma, loud noises, or life upheavals, such as the arrival of a new infant, can all contribute to an overflow of chronic anxiety. Understanding cat body language can help you understand what your cat is feeling and whether CBD can help.
Cats have an endocannabinoid system (ECS), which maintains physiological balance and regulation. The ECS sends out endocannabinoids in the bloodstream that contain instructions on how to function. Your cat is healthy when these messages are transmitted effectively. If there is a problem with the ECS system, your cat may be in pain because it controls pain, temperature, hunger, and other functions. CBD for cats, interestingly, can imitate the messages of the endocannabinoid, which helps restore equilibrium to the body.
IS CANNABIS SAFE FOR CATS?
All indications lean to “yes.” While no scientific studies have been published, pet owners have shared anecdotal evidence on the internet. Holistic Veterinarian Dr. Gary Richter states in a statement for PetMD that CBD is generally safe for cats. However, there may be some side effects of administering your cat CBD oil, such as gastrointestinal distress and mild sedation (all of which can be resolved by discontinuing use). Richter argues that the most important problem is ensuring that your cat is receiving the correct dosage and that medication is from a trustworthy brand. The FDA does not regulate the cat CBD products available on the market, so consult with your veterinarian first.
CBD’S BENEFITS FOR CATS
CBD for cats can provide relief for a variety of diseases because of its anti-inflammatory qualities. CBD may be useful for:
- Reducing chronic pain and inflammation associated with joint problems such as arthritis
- Improving the quality of life for cats suffering from diseases such as cancer
- Making your cat’s coat shine and stronger by improving its condition.
- Allergic responses that are soothing or itchy, dry skin
- Whether momentary or chronic, calming nervous or agitated cats
- Seizure reduction in epileptic cats
- Increasing one’s appetite
- Reducing swelling and discomfort to manage IBD symptoms
- Promoting overall wellness and health, possibly lowering disease risk
CBD OIL’S POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS ON CATS
When it comes to adopting changes in body function, there is always the potential for adverse effects. If CBD side effects occur, it is usually due to an inappropriate dosage. If your cat exhibits any of the negative effects listed below, discontinue use and consult your veterinarian immediately.
Excessive Drowsiness: This can be difficult to detect because our feline friends enjoy naps. If you find your pet fighting to stay awake or sleeping for extended periods of time, this could be an indication of too much CBD. Cat CBD is intended to encourage relaxation, but if used excessively, kitties may become lethargic. Before experimenting with CBD, attempt to keep a baseline of your cat’s sleep habits.
Nausea, Vomiting, or Diarrhea: If you experience any gastrointestinal symptoms, this could be a sign of an adverse reaction to CBD. Digestive problems and changes in appetite are often the first signs of an unbalanced body. Keep in mind that these concerns may not be entirely CBD-related and may be the result of a cat’s recent dietary habits.
Dry Mouth: Because CBD reduces saliva production, your cat may experience chronic dry mouth. You may notice this adverse effect if their breath begins to smell foul or they drink excessively. Long-term mouth dryness can cause a variety of dental problems in cats.
DOSAGE OF CBD FOR CATS
CBD dosage will vary depending on the cat and their situation. Consult your veterinarian to verify that you begin with the correct base dosage and follow respected dosing guidelines. It is important to gradually introduce CBD into your cat’s diet to monitor the appearance of negative effects.
Austin and Kat is a brand that focuses on natural wellness for pets and produces CBD oils and treats. According to their website, “we recommend giving a dose of 2-4 mg of CBD per 10 pounds of cat to begin.” […] The more severe the disease, the more CBD you will require. But start small and work your way up until your kitty pal is happier and calmer.”
The website also emphasizes the importance of remembering that the benefits take 15-45 minutes to manifest in your pet’s system. CBD effects might persist for 4-6 hours, depending on the cat!
WHERE CAN YOU FIND SAFE CBD OIL FOR YOUR CAT?
Finding safe CBD oil for cats in a consumer market, especially online, might be difficult. “Pet owners looking to give their pets CBD should do their due diligence before purchasing,” says Dr. Gary Richter. The marketplace is very much a ‘buyer beware’ atmosphere, and customers should be certain that the product they are purchasing has been tested by a laboratory for both content and contaminants.”
Legitimate products should bear the National Animal Supplements Council (NASC) Quality Seal or the US Hemp Authority Certified Seal. These quality seals signify that the product has undergone a third-party audit and is in compliance with quality standards. Another important condition is that the CBD oil be specifically developed for cats and contain no THC at all. Veterinarians may be able to recommend safe products. Following these precautions for your cat’s safety will ensure that the CBD is beneficial and does not cause major harm.
BEST CBD OIL FOR CATS: TOP MARKET PRODUCTS
Looking for some dependable brands? “When choosing CBD, make sure you are looking at a trusted company that provides unbiased third-party testing results for every batch of their product,” says Dr. Wendy King of Spears Creek Veterinary Clinic. Here are a few trustworthy options to think about, each of which has third-party results on their website. Please keep in mind that we are providing this information based on research and are not promoting or advocating any specific goods or brands. Before deciding on a new product, consult with your veterinarian and do your own research.
Kat and Austin
With all-natural elements, this brand guarantees happiness. They are extremely knowledgeable and provide products for animals of all shapes and sizes. Kat is a pet mom who started the business from her home. Most significantly, their website is straightforward. Lab tests are accessible for download, and they provide a link to the Leafreport, which says how accurately their goods are portrayed in comparison to other brands. They provide a variety of CBD products (oils, meal toppers, and snacks) to meet the wants and conditions of all pets. Paw CBD (NASC Certified)
Paw CBD offers a variety of CBD oils designed exclusively for cats. This company assures that its product is THC-free and provides transparency in its testing (lab reports are available on its website). The sole disadvantage of these products is that Paw CBD does not come with detailed dosing instructions. Because cats are significantly smaller than dogs, it is critical that pet owners have clear instructions. Paw CBD-flavored soft chews, oil tinctures, and kidney support chews are available. Kidney chews are advised for senior cats because they contain different roots that improve liver protection and kidney function. (NASC Certified) Sincere Paws
Honest Paws is another honest firm that manufactures its products in the United States. They have a 30-day money-back guarantee and provide a variety of goods aimed at certain health concerns (product lines include wellness, quiet, and relief). Their pet parents have given them rave ratings. Oils, balms, and soft chews are examples of cat items. By applying their hemp CBD mixture on your cat’s paws, you can treat dry skin or itching rashes. (NASC Approved)
The Hemp Company Super Snouts
Super Snouts products are GMO, pesticide, and solvent-free, in addition to being grown by American farmers. The website has detailed information regarding CBD for pets, as well as test results for their products and frequently asked questions. A portion of Super Snout’s profits are donated to homeless animals in need. Tinctures, gel caps, chews, CDB-infused peanut butter (for dogs), and balms are among the products available for pets. Super Snout sells gel caps and human balms for individuals who are interested. (NASC Approved)
To Conclude
Q: Is CBD oil safe for cats?
A: CBD oil is federally legal in the United States. However, some jurisdictions have their own rules that may make it difficult to purchase CBD for pets. AL, GA, IN, IA, KS, KY, NC, MS, SC, TN, TX, VA, WI, and WY are among these states.
Q: Can you offer CBD to your cat alongside other medications?
A: If your cat is already on prescription drugs, consult with your veterinarian. CBD may improve your cat’s overall health, but it is dependent on their condition and the type of medication they are taking.
Q: What is the best way to give CBD to a cat?
A: Most feline CBD manufacturers make it simple by offering a variety of products and tastes to pick from. If you buy a CBD treat for your cat, he or she may mistake it for a conventional treat. CBD oil with a dropper is the most prevalent product on the market. Most CBD users mix the oil into their cat’s food bowl. You may even apply it directly on their gums, but cats might not like that! Rubbing it into their ears or paw pads may be a less difficult choice.
Q: What is the distinction between CBD oil and hemp oil?
A: Although these oils appear to be the same, there are substantial variances in their effects and production methods. Pressing hemp seeds yields hemp oil. Hemp oil is derived from the seeds rather than the plant, it contains no THC and very little CBD. Hemp oil offers some natural health advantages (fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins) but not as many as CBD.