CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a chemical compound derived from the cannabis plant. It has gained a lot of popularity in recent years for its potential therapeutic benefits in humans, and now it's also being used to treat pets. CBD has shown promise in reducing pain, inflammation, anxiety, seizures, and other health issues in animals. In this blog, we'll explore the uses, benefits, and potential side effects of CBD in pets.

Uses of CBD in Pets

CBD is being used to treat a wide range of health issues in pets. Here are some of the most common uses:

1. Pain relief: CBD has analgesic properties, which can help alleviate pain in pets. It's especially useful for pets suffering from chronic pain or arthritis.

2. Anxiety and stress: CBD has calming effects and can help reduce anxiety and stress in pets. It's often used to treat separation anxiety, noise phobias, and travel anxiety.

3. Seizures: CBD has anticonvulsant properties and can help reduce the frequency and severity of seizures in pets.

4. Inflammation: CBD has anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce inflammation in pets. It's often used to treat conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and allergies.

Benefits of CBD in Pets

CBD offers a range of potential benefits for pets, including:

1. Non-psychoactive: CBD is non-psychoactive, which means it doesn't produce the "high" associated with THC, another compound found in the cannabis plant.

2. Safe: CBD is generally considered safe for pets when used properly. It has few side effects and no known long-term effects.

3. Natural: CBD is a natural compound derived from the cannabis plant, which makes it an attractive alternative to synthetic drugs.

4. No prescription required: CBD is available over the counter and doesn't require a prescription from a veterinarian.

5. Easy to administer: CBD is available in a variety of forms, including treats, tinctures, and capsules, which makes it easy to administer to pets.

Side Effects of CBD in Pets

While CBD is generally considered safe for pets, there are some potential side effects to be aware of:

1. Drowsiness: CBD can cause drowsiness in some pets, especially at higher doses.

2. Dry mouth: CBD can cause dry mouth in some pets, which can lead to increased thirst and urination.

3. Reduced blood pressure: CBD can cause a temporary drop in blood pressure, which may cause lightheadedness and dizziness.

4. Increased liver enzyme levels: CBD can increase liver enzyme levels in some pets, which may be a sign of liver damage.

It's important to note that the side effects of CBD in pets are generally mild and go away on their own. If your pet experiences any severe or persistent side effects, it's important to seek veterinary care.

Dosages

The dosage of CBD for pets depends on several factors, such as their body weight, age, health status, and the severity of their condition. Generally, it's recommended to start with a low dose and gradually increase it until you find the optimal dosage for your pet. It's crucial to note that pets may respond differently to CBD, and what works for one animal may not work for another.

The following are some guidelines for CBD dosage in pets:

1. Determine the CBD concentration

The first step is to check the CBD concentration in the product you plan to use. CBD products for pets come in different strengths and concentrations, ranging from 150mg to 1500mg or more. Typically, a higher concentration product will require a smaller dose than a lower concentration product.

2. Calculate the dosage based on your pet's weight

The general rule of thumb is to give 0.2mg to 0.5mg of CBD per pound of body weight, depending on the severity of the condition. For example, if your pet weighs 20 pounds and the recommended dose is 0.25mg per pound, the appropriate dosage would be 5mg of CBD per day. However, it's always best to consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate dosage for your pet based on their specific needs.

3. Start with a low dose

It's always advisable to start with a low dose and gradually increase it until you find the optimal dosage that works for your pet. Begin with a dose of 0.05mg to 0.1mg per pound of body weight and monitor your pet's response for a few days. If there are no adverse effects, you can gradually increase the dosage until you find the ideal amount.

4. Monitor your pet's response

CBD can take some time to take effect, and it's crucial to monitor your pet's response to the treatment. Observe their behavior, appetite, and overall health and consult with your veterinarian if you notice any adverse effects or if the current dosage isn't effective.

5. Consider the form of CBD

CBD products for pets come in various forms, such as tinctures, capsules, treats, and topicals. The form you choose may affect the dosage recommendations and the time it takes for CBD to take effect. For example, CBD tinctures and capsules are absorbed faster than treats and may require smaller doses. In addition, the type of CBD used in the product will impact the effect on your pet. For example, CBD Isolate contains only pure CBD, while Full-Spectrum CBD contains small amounts of THC and other minor cannabinoids. All of these components will affect your pet differently and Botanicraft Pet CBD products use only CBD Isolate to ensure your pet is receiving only very pure CBD while you assess its effectiveness.

See our quick reference Pet Dosing Guide for additional dosing information.

Conclusion

CBD offers a range of potential benefits for pets, including pain relief, anxiety reduction, seizure control, and inflammation reduction. It's generally considered safe when used properly, but there are some potential side effects to be aware of. If you're considering using CBD to treat your pet's health issues, it's important to talk to your veterinarian first to determine the appropriate dosage and ensure it's safe for your pet's specific needs.