CBD is heralded as a wonder drug. That’s because it can alleviate and prevent everything from pain to crippling diseases. It’s one of the safest all-natural drugs on the market, and it’s been used to promote healing and vitality for millennia. Alongside its growing popularity for human consumption, new potential uses are coming into focus. And that’s where CBD oil for cats comes into play.
While CBD oil for cats hasn’t been as extensively studies as CBD oil for humans and other animals, initial findings look promising. In fact, the research that has been done on CBD oil for cats shows a major reduction in pain, stress symptoms, seizures, and several other chronic conditions. This is particularly notable, given the limited options available for cats experiencing ill health.
This article takes you through the science behind CBD oil for cats. We’ll go over its effects, prominent research and studies on the subject, and how you can treat your cat with the best CBD possible. Ready to see your feline friend smiling like a Cheshire? Let’s get started.
What is CBD Oil?
CBD oil is simply cannabidiol extract that’s infused with a carrier like hemp seed, coconut, or olive oil. It’s the non-psychotropic (won’t cause a high) part of the Cannabis plant, but it still causes some profound effects. In fact, CBD oil is used by humans andanimals for many purposes. The most prominent reasons for use include pain relief, stress reduction, and overall vitality, but the cat’s not out of the bag yet. Research indicates that there are many healing properties found in CBD oil, some of which are yet to be discovered.
It’s true – Cannabis is an incredible plant that serves many purposes. After all, there’s a reason it’s heralded as a wonder cure for mammals across the animal kingdom.
How Does CBD Oil Work?
CBD reacts with the cannabinoid receptors found within certain brain cells. These cells are responsible for a number of bodily functions, but they’re primarily known for regulating the flow of neurotransmitters like serotonin. When CBD is ingested in some form or another, it acts to alter the flow of these neurotransmitters. Since many of them, including serotonin, are involved in mood and pain management, CBD has a profound effect on these areas. How so? Well, we’re not entirely sure.
As is the case with many medicines, we’re still learning about the ways in which CBD affects the body. Understanding this drug is made even more difficult given the illegal classification and negative stigmatization of Cannabis. For those reasons, there hasn’t been much money involved in funding scientific research. The good news? The pace is quickening alongside the legalization effort, and there are numerous studies underway. And this includes clinical trials with cats.
What we do know is that CBD improves a number of conditions. This includes the following:
- Intense & chronic pain
- Inflammation
- Anxiety & depression
- Epilepsy
- Cancer
- Various diseases
And if that weren’t enough, studies continue to pour out from reputable journals documenting additional benefits of CBD.
CBD for Cats: Research & Studies
But how does CBD oil affect cats? Well, we’ve curated a list of several prominent scientific studies on the topic. Our goal is to provide you with the most up-to-date information, and you’re encouraged to look through the notes for further study.
Want to keep reading? We’ll summarize the information in the sections below.
- ElleVet Sciences. “Feline Mobility Oil Study.” ElleVet Sciences. Find on ElleVet.
- Fine, Perry G, and Mark J Rosenfeld. “The Endocannabinoid System, Cannabinoids, and Pain.” Rambam Maimonides Medical Journal, 29 Oct. 2013. Find on PMC.
- Greb, Alexandra, and Birgit Puschner. “Cannabinoid Treats as Adjunctive Therapy for Pets: Gaps in Our Knowledge.” Taylor & Francis. Find on T&F.
- Landa, Leos, et al. “The Use of Cannabinoids in Animals and Therapeutic Implications for Veterinary Medicine: A Review.” ResearchGate, 2016. Find on ResearchGate.
- Wada, J.A., et al. “Antiepileptic Properties of Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol.” Experimental Neurology, Academic Press, 28 Jan. 2004. Find on ScienceDirect.
Treating Cats with CBD
We’ve seen many of the ways that CBD can improve health and well-being, but how does this relate to cats? As mentioned, there aren’t many studies on cats specifically. But the ones that have been done are incredibly promising. They demonstrate:
- Pain reduction
- Improved moods
- Less stress
- Increased appetite
- Balanced health
Cats don’t typically have a lot of options for pain management, and CBD fills the void with a natural and holistic solution that really works.
Fortunately, treating cats with CBD oil couldn’t be easier. While exact dosing and specific requirements depends on the type of CBD oil you choose, the guidelines are all pretty similar. Simply follow the steps outlined below for an easy guide on administering a CBD oil tincture:
1. Dosage
Fill the dropper with the proper dose. This varies depending on the brand you choose, but a few droplets is often all it takes.
2. Dropper
Squeeze the CBD oil directly into your kitty’s mouth. If this proves too difficult, or if your cat doesn’t like the taste, try mixing it with a can of wet food
3. Repeat
Repeat every morning and night until symptoms improve. After this, it’s often a good idea to administer a small dose daily for continued wellness. In instances where symptoms don’t improve, increase the dose incrementally and consult your veterinarian
That’s it! The process isn’t rocket science, and your cat is bound to return to his or her playful self in no time.
Types of CBD Oils for Cats
There are a number of different CBD products for cats on the market. The most popular include the following:
- Tinctures
- Treats
- Pills
- Ointments
While all of them are sure to improve your kitten’s health and wellbeing, we recommend a tincture or treat for most pet owners. They’re easy to administer, dosing is a breeze, and there are lots of flavors for your cat to choose from.
Choosing the Best CBD Oil for Cats
There are many different CBD products for cats, with additional ones entering the market on a regular basis. This can make it hard to find the perfect fit for your feline friend. To make the process easier, we’ve documented a few of the most important considerations when choosing your medicine:
1. Consult your vet.
When it comes to your pet pal, nobody is better prepared to answer your questions and concerns than the vet. Give your doctor a ring to ask for product recommendations over the phone, or even schedule a visit for up close and personal advice.
2. Find a reputable brand.
This step cannot be overstated. Much like the supplement market, CBD oils for animal consumption aren’t regulated by any governing body like the FDA. This makes it very important that you search for brands that are backed by science and led by animal lovers. In particular, seek out options that have been privately tested in a certified lab for quality and purity.
3. Try it out.
As long as you’ve got the doc’s approval and have chosen a quality oil, there’s only one thing left to do: ask the decision maker. Administer the CBD oil and keep a close eye on your cat to see if there are any changes.
If your cat likes the formula and you notice improvements, perfect! Keep going until you reach a level of stability. After this, you can continue with a small dose or taper the treatment altogether. If it’s not a success the first time, don’t sweat it. Medicines are rarely one-size-fits-all. Simply choose your next favorite and try again.
Risks Associated with CBD for Cats
CBD, like all medicine, has some risks associated with use. This is particularly true for cats, given the lack of research on the subject. Our recommendation for avoiding any serious issues is to choose a brand like Elle Vet Sciences, which has done its own research and studies on the subject (with more on the way!).
Additionally, there may be side effects of CBD oil in cats. Start with a small dose and monitor your cat for the first few weeks. Additionally, keep your vet up to date on your progress so the experience is documented and a professional is involved in any critical decision making.
CBD Oil for Cats: What’s on the Horizon?
It’s an exciting time in the CBD world. There are tons of new studies on CBD and pets slated for publication over the next year, and the medicinal market is continuing the grow. Alongside all the new health benefits we’re seeing from human trials, it’s fairly safe to say that we’re at the very beginning of a long and prosperous journey.
So, keep an eye on this page for updated information, and look out for similar articles in the future. Also note that there are tons of other ways to treat your cat and incorporate healthful routines into your pet’s life. It’s about finding a balance between natural and modern meds for maximum wellbeing. In the meantime, the folks here at Pet Territory wish you and your kitty happiness and health.
