The incredible compound, CBD or cannabidiol, is finally receiving all the importance and praise it deserves. Scientists and researchers are spending more time to explore the full advantages of this plant for all living creatures. So, what makes CBD useful, and how can it benefit your little fur friend? Keep reading to know about the CBD benefits for cats!
What is CBD?
The CBD is one of the most popular cannabinoids, naturally found in the cannabis plant. It offers several advantages for both humans and pets. It is a non-psychoactive compound and appeals to a broader audience, unlike THC. It can be easily found in everyday products, such as cosmetics, food, and medicines.
The effect that CBD has on human beings is like its impact on animals. That’s why pet owners are interested in exploring their benefits for their little friend. It aids in healing multiple issues, including seizures, arthritis, pain relief, withdrawal symptoms, and depression. Pet owners who want to improve their pets’ well-being and happiness may try for the CBD and CBD infused products.
CBD and Endocannabinoid System in Cats
Thanks to the endocannabinoid system (ECS), both THC and CBD have similar physiological effects in vertebrates. It means that cats, dogs, horses, rabbits, and birds all have ECS identical to human beings. Two kinds of cannabinoids interact with the endocannabinoid system – endocannabinoids (naturally produced by all vertebrates) and phytocannabinoids (provided by the cannabis plant).
Phytocannabinoids mimic endocannabinoids in the ECS, and that’s why CBD helps maintain homeostasis in cats by regulating the following:
- Pain and sensation
- Balance and coordination
- Digestion
- Immune system functions
- Mood swings
- Cardiovascular system functions
- Cognitive activities
- Sleep
- Reproduction
CB1 and CB2 Receptors
The CBD stimulates signals in the central and peripheral nervous system of animals and humans to get messages from the brain to the body through CB1 and CB2 receptors.
- CB1 receptors are present in the central nervous system (spinal cord and brain) and in the adrenals, liver, gut, cardiovascular system, and the brain area responsible for managing anxiety and fear.
- CBD receptors are primarily located in the immune cells and alleviate pain and support relaxation by decreasing inflammation.
Both CB1 and CBD2 receptors vary in maintaining homeostasis in the body. Some receptors work on regulating mood and reducing anxiety, while others are responsible for pain control.
Benefits of Using CBD
CBD May Help with Appetite and Digestive Disorders
Pets often experience digestive disorders or low appetite as they age. Their digestive system becomes weaker and can’t eat some foods, especially ones which take longer for digestion. As a result, they start losing their health because of the deficiency of certain nutrients. CBD infused foods, like peanut butter, may help pet’s indigestion and reduce the nutritious lack in their bodies.
CBD increases your pet’s appetite by terminating the underlying problems. Research indicates that CBD may help cope with nausea and vomiting, which could result from toxins or drugs. CBD consumption is widely increasing in the United States and could be your best shot at improving your pet’s well-being.
CBD Could Be a Natural Aid for Pain Relief
CBD is well-known for its anti-inflammatory features, which is why it’s quite helpful in treating several ailments. The naturally occurring compound interacts with the receptors, which are a part of the immune system. It stimulates the receptors to fight for decreasing the secretion of inflammation-causing chemicals. Currently, the compound is used for treating pain-related inflammation, like multiple sclerosis, and arthritis.
It has shown significant effects on humans and pets suffering from chronic pain conditions. A study shows how CBD takes care of chronic pain and reduces the efficiency of anandamide absorption in the body temporarily after its usage. CBD is responsible for locating pain in the body. By doing so, users feel less pain. These two effects of CBD in the body helps relieve pain in the case of your pets.
CBD May Reduce Stress and Anxiety
Most people believe that pets don’t suffer from mental ailments, but it’s not true. Stress and anxiety could be cause for several reasons, such as travel, changing house, new owner, separation from the owner, a phobia, or noise due to carnivals and crackers. These conditions may lead to loss of appetite, aggressive behavior, restlessness, continuous barking, or defecating in odd places. These are some of the symptoms of your pets suffering from stress, depression, or anxiety.
As compared to humans, giving medication for anxiety is more complicated in animals. CBD is excellent as a natural and effective medicine for your cat, dog, or any other pet. With the right dosage, your pet will feel calmer and more relaxed. Also, it may increase the secretion of serotonin in the body that puts your pet in a great mood.
CBD May Treat Epilepsy and Seizures
It is difficult to treat seizures in pets. Veterinarians usually prescribe potassium bromide or Phenobarbital for treating epilepsy and seizures in animals. These medications are designed for reducing seizure intensity; however, these are not proven effective as about 30 percent of pets (mainly dogs) face seizures even after using these medicines. On the other hand, CBD has been proven to treat epilepsy and seizures in human beings. It shows that CBD may reduce the frequency and intensity of seizures in pets as well. Although substantial evidence is not available as yet, several kinds of research are presently happening that promise to deliver effective results of CBD for pets.
CBD May Cure Skin Conditions
Another benefit of using CBD is that it will improve your cat’s ears, coat, and overall skin. Pets usually experience skin conditions, and CBD is known for minimizing acne and keeping their skin hydrated. Not only that, but it also restores their coat and turns it into smoother and thicker. If your cat has any allergies, CBD may also alleviate symptoms and restore them to their usual selves.
Tips for Choosing the Best CBD Product for Your Cat
CBD comes in many forms, but liquid CBD is the most effective and popular type. CBD oil has excellent bioavailability, is extremely palatable, and can be easily incorporated into cat’s food. If you are thinking about purchasing cannabis for your cat, make sure to choose a high-quality and safe product. Here is what to look for:
- Request a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or the complete profile of the final product.
- Go for a mycotoxin and heavy metal analysis
- Familiarize yourself with product terminology
- Look for high CBD concentrations and low to zero THC concentration
- Follow the rule “start low and go slow” and slowly increase its dosage as per the effect
- Make sure that no fungicides or pesticides were used during manufacture
- Purchase CO2 or alcohol extracted products. (Note: alcohol-based tinctures are not healthy for pet’s use)
- In the beginning, take 1mg CBD per kg of body mass.
Is It Safe to Consume?
Veterinarians suggest that CBD has little to no adverse effects on pets. Each cat has a different physical and mental health so that CBD effects may differ from cat to cat. Before you add CBD to your cat’s routine, it’s better to discuss it with a vet.
The most common side effect of using CBD is slight sedation. It may go unnoticed at first because these little creatures are known for their tending of napping. Make sure to keep an eye on your cat’s activities after its first exposure to the CBD.
Other adverse effects are nausea, anxiety, change in appetite, and vomiting. These effects are typically mild and are witnessed in rare cases. If your cat experiences any of these effects, it’s better to stop giving CBD any dosage and immediately check with your vet. Also, make sure that the CBD product is high-quality and comes from a hemp plant.
Where to Buy CBD?
If you are looking for the original and best quality CBD product, there are several platforms you can entirely rely on. They offer CO2 extracted, 100% natural, and non-GMO CBD products to every client – all you have to do is look for the right manufacturer. So, what are you thinking? Place your order now to improve your health. Your CBD product will be delivered at your doorstep within 4-5 business days if you buy CBD oil now!