Cats are known for their independent personalities, but they still need care and attention from their owners. While traditional medicines and treatments can be effective, they can also have unwanted side effects. CBD, or cannabidiol, is becoming an increasingly popular option for treating ailments in cats. This article will explore the incredible benefits of CBD for cats and why it’s an important option to consider for pet parents. We’ll look at how CBD can help cats with pain, anxiety, and other conditions, as well as what to look for when selecting a CBD product for cats.

What are the potential health benefits of CBD for cats?

The potential health benefits of CBD for cats can include pain relief, improved mobility, reduced anxiety, reduced inflammation, and improved digestive health. CBD can also help cats with chronic conditions such as arthritis, cancer, and seizures. Additionally, CBD may help cats with age-related issues such as cognitive decline, hearing loss, and vision loss.

How long does it take for cats to feel the effects of CBD?

It typically takes 30 minutes to two hours for cats to feel the effects of CBD. However, individual cats can take longer or shorter amounts of time to experience the benefits of CBD.

What dosage of CBD should be given to cats?

CBD is generally safe for cats and can provide many health benefits. The exact dosage of CBD to give to cats can vary, but it is generally recommended to start with a low dose of 1-2mg per 10 pounds of body weight. It is best to start with a low dose and gradually increase it as needed based on how your pet responds.

Are there any side effects or risks associated with giving cats CBD?

Yes, there are potential side effects or risks associated with giving cats CBD. These can include changes in appetite, drowsiness, dry mouth, and diarrhea. In rare cases, cats may experience more serious side effects such as changes in behavior or an allergic reaction. It is important to speak with a veterinarian before giving CBD to cats to ensure they are monitored and safe.

Can CBD be given to cats with other medications?

Yes, CBD can be given to cats with other medications. CBD has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, and pain-relieving properties, and has been used to treat a variety of conditions in cats, including arthritis, anxiety, and chronic pain. However, it is important to consult with your veterinarian before giving your cat any medications, including CBD, to ensure that it is safe and appropriate for your pet’s individual needs.

Among these alternative treatments is cannabis oil. Cannabis plants contain more than active compounds, but the one most often used for medicinal purposes is cannabidiol, or CBD. Inman is careful to specify that CBD oil is often used to subjectively increase comfort and improve quality of life in pets, not necessarily cure ailments. This type of treatment should be advised by your veterinarian and not initiated without their consent. Although there have been no scientific studies that specifically investigate the impact of cannabis on pets, Dr. However, there can be some adverse effects to giving your cat CBD oil, including gastrointestinal upset and some sedation, both of which can be relieved by discontinuing the use of the oil. Liza Guess, a clinical assistant professor at the Ohio State University Department of Veterinary Medicine in Columbus, Ohio, says that the lack of official, documented research into the affects of cannabis products for cats would make her hesitant to recommend them. Inman adds that as an ER veterinarian, he often sees marijuana toxicity in the animals that come into his practice. And, in more severe instances, I have had to hospitalize animals until the affects have worn off. Regardless of how well CBD products work for cats, there is also the issue of legality. If a cannabis product contains less than 0. Most, if not all, CBD oil fits this description. The bigger issue is discussing this course of treatment with your veterinarian. Being able to discuss all types of treatments with your veterinarian is key, and Richter advises checking in with your vet before giving your pet any sort of cannabis. Home Cat Care Center. Written by PetMD Editorial. Published April 16, So, is cannabis safe for cats? And what sorts of ailments might it treat? Help us make PetMD better Was this article helpful? Yes No. Share this article. What did you find helpful? What was not helpful? Say more Sign me up for the PetMD Newsletter. Submit Feedback. Still have questions? Continue to Chewy. Experienced vets answer all your pet questions via chat or video.
Pet Keen is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more. CBD oil is one of the hottest products in the world right now, as people are using it for all sorts of things, including calming anxiety, treating aches and pains, and even fighting acne. But did you know that you can also give CBD oil to your cat? However, CBD affects the body much differently than THC does, which is the compound in marijuana responsible for making you feel high. Instead, it can work as a neurotransmitter, causing your brain to release feel-good chemicals like dopamine. Most commercially sold CBD oil is actually extracted from hemp, which has no psychoactive effects. In fact, in many states where CBD oil is legal, manufacturers are required by law to only use hemp-derived oil for this very reason. Still, we urge you to check your local laws before making a purchase. Most large-scale studies have been performed on humans, and there have been a handful done on dogs, but virtually nothing on kitties. That said, there are virtually no CBD oil products that have earned FDA approval , and the market is almost entirely unregulated. Even if CBD oil itself is safe, there could be all sorts of other things floating around in the oil that you bought from that shady site on the internet. Your best bet is to stick to reputable sites with plenty of reviews and other social proof and follow the instructions that they provide to the letter. It may also interfere with certain prescription medications, so discuss the matter with your vet before starting your cat on a CBD regimen. We would like to reiterate that there are no studies backing any of this up. The biggest benefit that CBD oil offers is in treating anxiety. Cats that are given CBD oil are reportedly mellower and better able to deal with stressful situations. It may also help with pain relief, especially arthritis pain. CBD oil can also be used as an appetite stimulant. This is especially powerful for cats suffering through chemotherapy or similar treatments. There are other supposed benefits, like boosted immune support and seizure reduction. CBD oil comes in various forms, including oils, chews, and even food toppers. The correct way to give it to your cat will vary depending on the form that you use. Many CBD oils are mixed with some sort of fish oil such as sardine oil to make it more palatable to your cat if your kitty likes the taste, you may be able to just squirt some on their food. There are also flavored chews available. Cats usually find these to be delicious, so you may be able to get them to actually thank you for giving them their supplement. However, given all the other ingredients that go into making a chew, this is usually the most diluted and least effective way to dose them.