CBD-based products are known for their anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, and stress-reducing properties – the main reasons why they have become so popular in recent years. However, humans are not the only ones that can benefit from using CBD and improve their well-being. Today, CBD is also used for managing health conditions in pets – lowering anxiety, dealing with seizures, reducing pain and inflammation, boosting appetite, and more.
However, as a pet owner, you are probably concerned about CBD’s safety for your four-legged companion before buying pet CBD from Thryv Organics or other similar dispensaries. Below, you will find the necessary information about what CBD is, how it works for pets, determining a proper dosage, the possible risks and side effects, and more. Read on and educate yourself on the subject.
What Is CBD?
CBD is a non-intoxicating cannabis compound that has been shown to have several health benefits. It is extracted from the hemp plant, and it works by using the endocannabinoid system to interact with the brain and the rest of the body.
The main reason why CBD has become so popular in recent years is that it has fewer side effects than THC. In fact, CBD is not psychoactive at all, unlike THC. The main similarity between them is that both compounds work by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system – the network of receptors located throughout the human body that are responsible for regulating the immune system, pain levels, mood, sleep, appetite, hormones, and more.
How Does CBD Work For Pets?
CBD with CB1 and CB2 receptors in pets. Both receptors are found throughout the body, but they are especially concentrated in the nervous system. In fact, CB1 receptors are found in the brain and spinal cord, while CB2 receptors are found in cells of the immune system.
That being said, CB1 receptors are thought to be responsible for inhibiting nausea, pain, and anxiety in pets, while CB2 receptors boost appetite and reduce inflammation.
CBD can also interact with other receptors in your pet’s body, but more research is needed to determine its full potential. Also keep in mind that CBD products for pets vary in quality, which means that they can produce different effects depending on how well they were made. That is why it is important to be aware of the source of CBD products for pets before purchasing them.
How to Determine the Proper Dosage For Your Pet?
While deciding on the proper dosage for your pet sounds like an easy task, there are several factors to take into account – such as breed, weight, age, health condition, etc. – which might make this procedure more difficult than expected.However, as CBD is not psychoactive and does not cause any major side effects, you can try to find out a proper dosage through trial and error. You might start with a small dose and see if it works for your pet. If not, you can always increase the dosage or add another supplement or medicine to help your pet heal faster.
If you do not want to risk making your pet feel uncomfortable or, even worse – sick – you should always consult with a veterinarian before giving it anything new. A vet will not only help you determine a proper dosage but will also tell you about additional supplements or medicines that can help your pet recover faster.
Is It Safe to Use CBD For Pets?
If you decide to go ahead with CBD treatment for your pet, make sure to talk with your veterinarian beforehand – especially if your dog or cat is already taking medications or undergoing treatment for a health condition. Having a vet supervising you during your pet’s treatment might save you from some unnecessary issues and feelings of guilt if something goes wrong.
Keep in mind that CBD is not toxic, and even if you overdose your pet with it, it will not experience any negative side effects. However, some pets might be allergic to CBD oil, meaning that you might still have to deal with side effects – just not the ones you wanted to avoid.
American cocker spaniel puppies posing. Cute dark-black doggies or pets playing on grey background. Look attented and playful. Studio photoshot. Concept of motion, movement, action. Copyspace.
Here are some possible side effects of CBD for pets:
- Drowsiness
- Increased appetite
- Lethargy
- Ataxia (lack of muscle coordination)
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Dry mouth or excessive thirst
These side effects are usually mild and will go away quickly. However, if your pet has a health condition – such as seizures, cancer, liver disease, kidney disease, pancreatitis, heart disease, etc. – you should always consult with your vet before administering any treatment.
Also, keep in mind that if your pet is taking medications already, adding CBD might reduce their effectiveness. However, this issue might be solved by increasing the dosage of the original medication.
How to Use CBD For Pets?
Most pet owners use CBD in their pets’ food or treat them with CBD oil. The most common ways to administer CBD to your pet are through:
- Spraying it in its mouth
- Mixing it in its food or water
- Rubbing it into its skin
Conclusion
CBD is a natural compound that has been shown to have several health benefits for people. However, CBD might be even more beneficial for pets. Today, CBD is used to help animals deal with pain, inflammation, anxiety, seizures, and more. However, as CBD is not regulated in most states and is often contaminated with THC, it is important to be careful when buying CBD products for your dog or cat.
That being said, if you decide that CBD is right for your pet, you can use trial and error to determine the proper dosage or consult with your veterinarian beforehand. Also, keep in mind that if your pet is taking medications already, adding CBD might reduce their effectiveness. Therefore, it is important to talk with your vet if you are interested in using CBD for your pet.
