A survey shows that 85 million US families share their homes with their pets, and these pet owners spent $75.38 billion on their pets in 2019. Out of this figure, around $34.12 were paid to vet care, supplies, and over-the-counter medication. This kind of spending has become quite usual in the United States.
Like non-pet owners get worried about their family members, pet owners feel the same for their pets when they are ill. With saying that, fur parents may not have to worry about their cats‘ health anymore because CBD could be useful for treating several health issues in cats. If you want to know more about CBD and cats, keep reading this article.
What is CBD?
CBD stands for “cannabidiol” and is one of the 113 cannabinoids in the cannabis plant. Cannabinoids are substances that interact with the endocannabinoid system of mammals.
Mammals, like humans and felines, develop cannabinoids through the endocannabinoid (ECS) system. Endocannabinoids are formed by mammals. Whereas phytocannabinoids are produced by plants, especially by cannabis plants.
Cannabinoids and ECS
The ECS is one of the central signaling hubs of the mammalian body. It serves as a “regulatory board” for signaling biological and physiological processes. These indicators impact sleep, immune function, appetite, and pain, to name a few.
Cannabinoid receptors (CBs) are present within the ECS, and two are currently known as CB1 and CB2. CBD is the cannabinoid that binds with these receptors, causing an ECS response. This response depends on what cannabinoid binds the cannabinoid receptor to.
CBD has no obvious impact on the ECS. But it blocks or activates certain compounds present in the ECS.
For example, the nerve corridors that pain signals use to get to the brain seem to be interrupted. It is an effective way that the CBD may relieve pain.
Are THC and CBD the Same?
Most people get confused between tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and CBD; it is essential to note that THC products come from the marijuana plant while CBD products are derived from the hemp plant.
Cannabis plants categorized as hemp plants consist of less than 0.3% THC, it‘s a compound responsible for causing a ‘high.‘ On the other hand, CBD does not cause any euphoric sensation and is safe to consume by both humans and pets.
Benefits of CBD for Cats
CBD for Cat Seizures
CBD has been studied for treating seizures and epilepsy in both cats and dogs. According to a 2019 research, 100 cats were given CBD during the clinical trial, and 89% showed a reduction in seizure intensity after a month of CBD intake.
CBD for Cats in Pain
Another benefit of consuming CBD is it reduces the intensity of pain and inflammation in humans as well as some animals. A study shows that CBD contains anti-inflammatory properties and treats pain in cats. According to a recent report, CBD can help increase comfort and decrease pain in osteoarthritis in both cats and dogs.
What to Look for in CBD Oil for Cats
The first thing you need to look for when purchasing CBD oil for your cat is the plant source. It’s safer to go for the hemp-sourced CBD since this decreases the risk of a THC-containing drug.
Below are some other attributes that you can pay attention to when shopping for CBD products.
NASC Seal or GMP Label
Select a CBD drug that explicitly notes that it meets “Best Manufacturing Practices.” Reputable pet CBD brands also have the stamp of the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC).
These acronyms say that the product contains healthy ingredients. They also say that CBD oil came from a safe, sanitary manufacturing facility.
Independent Lab Test Results
Make sure that the CBD items you’re purchasing have undergone independent research. The results of the laboratory tests will tell you how much CBD and THC the drug contains. It will also indicate what the remaining ingredients of the CBD oil are.
Ingredients
Like chocolate, grapeseed oil can also be harmful to animals and not to humans. Nonetheless, CBD products for humans can contain this form of oil.
Xylitol, a sugar substitute, can also be used in CBD products manufactured for humans. However, this alternative sugar can cause low blood sugar and seizures in animals. It can also lead to liver failure and, if not treated, death in animals, especially cats. It is also important to know that THC is toxic for animals. So, your CBD product for your cat should not contain any THC.
That being said, make sure that all the mentioned ingredients are natural and safe for cats.
Keep in Mind
If your cat is already under some kind of medication, don‘t feed them with CBD. Instead, ring up your vet first to inquire about any potential drug reactions.
Past work has shown that CBD has a significant preventing influence on CYP450 enzymes. In humans, this means that taking CBD while taking another drug can impede the action of these enzymes. As a result, more of the drugs will get in and remain in a person’s system.
In fact, if your cat isn‘t taking any traditional medicine, it’s still a good idea to reach out to your vet because they can suggest you better about your pet’s wellbeing.
CBD Dosage for Cats
When you want to give your pet CBD oil, begin with a very small dose. It’s best to first err on the side of caution and check for any possible reactions. If no side effects are noticed, you can increase the dosage.
Potential Side Effects to Look For
Lack of knowledge on the side effects of CBD on cats is also due to a lack of research. Though, this does not necessarily mean that CBD does not have side effects for pets. This can cause reactions such as the adverse effects that one experiences.
One of the side effects is dry mouth, as CBD can limit the production of saliva. This may tend to be more thirsty than usual in cats.
One possible side effect is mild fatigue in your animals. It may be due to the relaxing effects of CBD.
That said, be extra careful when you give CBD to your pets. If the mouth is dry, make sure that your cat or dog has more water.
Is It Legal to Give CBD to Cats?
The legality of CBD oil and CBD products is complicated in the US; according to the 2018 Farm Bill rules, hemp-derived CBD with less than 0.3% THC is legal on a federal level, but states hold the authority to alter the practices. As a result, CBD is legal for recreational and medicinal use in some states; other states only allow the therapeutic use of CBD. Meanwhile, some states don’t allow any kind of use of CBD. So be sure to check out your state’s rule about CBD before you start using it for medicinal or recreational purposes.
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.