There has been a lot of interest in the veterinary cannabis field. Many people wonder if CBD has the same effects on animals as it has on humans. More research needs to be done on this to get scientific data that will enable us to draw factual conclusions. However, there is evidence from pet owners suggesting CBD uses for dogs and cats.
This article shall discuss CBD’s uses and its side effects on our little furry friends. This information will help you decide if you can use it on your pet.
What is CBD?
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a chemical compound, one of the active ingredients in cannabis. Unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD does not have a high effect. Instead, it has a calming effect. It is obtained from the plant’s buds and flowers. It is available in various forms for animals like capsules, chewable treats, topical balms and creams, and oil.
The most common extract is CBD oil, available in a dropper bottle. It can be put in the mouth or beneath the tongue or mixed with food and treats. The oil can also be rubbed inside the ears onto bare skin. Oil rapidly reaches high concentration in the blood and remains in the bloodstream for an extended period.
Uses of CBD in cats and dogs
CBD has some health benefits as it affects the peripheral and central nervous systems by interacting with the endocannabinoid receptors. This helps to maintain body balance and a healthy state. Some of the CBD uses for dogs and cats depend on the anti-inflammatory properties of the substance. It can help manage the pain in pets with osteoarthritis and increase their activity and comfort.
CBD helps your pet by reducing seizures and muscle spasms, managing pain caused by arthritis and cancer, treating nausea, improving appetite, and easing distress from environmental change.
Possible side effects
There is no scientific data as to how CBD affects pets. Based on the negative effects experienced by humans, some side effects of CBD uses for dogs and cats include dry mouth due to reduced saliva production manifested as increased thirst in dogs. A temporary decrease in blood pressure might also cause lightheadedness. The pet can experience drowsiness due to the calming effect.
Precautions
If you decide to explore the CBD uses for dogs and cats, kindly ensure that the CBD is in a pure state without traces of other substances like THC. THC is highly toxic to pets. Symptoms of THC poisoning include diarrhea, restlessness, vomiting, lethargy, and trouble standing. It is also advisable to consult with the vet before using CBD on your pet.
Conclusion
CBD is beneficial to both humans and animals. Further research into veterinary cannabis will enable us to explore more ways to benefit us all.