What does CBD do?
CBD (or cannabidiol) is the compound found most abundantly in the hemp plant. Its legalisation has seen it promoted as a treatment for all kinds of conditions.
Before reading further, it should be noted that any and all research should be seen as inconclusive. Its potential benefits are still to be determined. You should always consult your veterinarian when considering where to buy CBD cat treats and how to use them.
Cannabidiol appears to work in tandem with the body’s endocannabinoid system. It produces chemicals that work their way through the bloodstream. Much like us, this system plays a vital role in regulating your cat’s overall health.
Research indicates that this system affects:
- Learning and memory
- Hunger or weight loss
- Body temperature
- Sleep
- Immune functioning and more.
You may be more familiar with cannabidiol’s close cousin, THC. They share similar origins but are ultimately very different. CBD is a non-psychoactive compound. In other words, your cat will not be exposed to the ‘high’ associated with THC.
Avoid products containing THC when it comes to your pets. While CBD Oil for Pets is largely considered safe, THC doesn’t come with the same sense of security. More research is required in this area.
CBD treats for cats
Because cats sport the same endocannabinoid system as we do, the effects of cannabidiol are largely considered to be more or less the same. When this system isn’t quite doing its thing, cannabidiol is thought to give it that extra push.
Research on CBD Oil for cats, however, is particularly lacking.
The gaps in our knowledge massively outweigh what we do know. This should always be kept in the front of your mind when deciding what’s best for your cat.
CBD is divided into different categories containing different contents. This further complicates things.
A few key points to consider:
- what works for one cat may not work for another
- your cat’s feeding schedule and type of treat may affect how it processes CBD
- CBD contents are not known to pile up over time
- researchers have not identified any side effects in cats taking other medications.
You will also need some knowledge of the kinds of CBD available. They are:
- Full-spectrum: containing THC and the entire range of compounds in hemp
- Broad-spectrum: containing most of these compounds, except for THC
- Isolates: containing only pure cannabidiol.
Remember that you can’t simply go into a store and buy any CBD product. As Schedule 4 drugs, you’ll need a prescription from your vet to get them.
Is CBD safe for my cat?
This is where things get a little murkier. Can I give CBD oil to my cat? Yes, cannabidiol is already widely used for dogs and cats alike. No, no specific adverse effects have been reported. It appears that CBD in our pets functions much the same as it does in us.
Cannabidiol cannot be confidently recommended as a treatment until we learn more. Studies looking at the safety and tolerability of CBD in cats do provide glimmers of hope though.
Much of the supposed benefits of CBD for cats are interpreted from studies done on dogs. While similar, the number of endocannabinoid receptors differs between both animals. This further proves that what works for one may not have quite the same effect on the other.
The lack of information on CBD usage in cats is sure to increase with its popularity. It will take a coordinated effort between governments, veterinary institutions and researchers to push the field where it needs to go.
Regardless, cats are given cannabidiol as an alternative treatment for:
- Pain and arthritis
- Various bowel conditions
- Inflammation
- General health and more.
If you’re considering CBD oil cat treats, take into account that cats have trouble digesting fatty acids. These are found in the carrier oils used with CBD such as coconut or hemp seed oil.
Once again, consult your veterinarian before making any decisions that could affect your cat’s health.
How much CBD should cats take?
As always, the appropriate dosage for your cat may differ from case to case. CBD dosage varies per your cat’s diet, condition and weight. Your safest bet is to contact a professional.
The rule of thumb appears to be 1 – 5 mg for every 5 kg. Another helpful rule is to begin any treatment with the lowest doses possible (as low as 1 mg). This way you can carefully gauge its effect on your cat and scale up as needed.
Finding the right dosage for your cat’s condition is a process of trial and error. You’ll want to do your best to watch your cat after administering the treatment. At least for the early stages. Note any changes in its appetite, behaviour or sleeping patterns. Nausea is an obvious warning sign.
Closing thoughts On CBD for cats
The trend of cannabidiol usage in humans, dogs and cats appears here to stay. Hundreds of products are being marketed as effective treatments for every ailment your cat could possibly suffer from. New ones seem to pop up every day.
Whether or not these treatments will stand up to rigorous scientific testing is another story. For now, CBD usage in cats does not seem to present any specific negatives.
Remember to:
- begin with a low dosage
- consider your cat’s weight, condition and diet
- conduct as much research on the types of CBD available to you as possible.
If you’re considering CBD treats for your pet, consult a veterinarian first. They will help you decide if this treatment is appropriate, as well as what kind of CBD is best. Finally, they will work with you to establish a proper dosage and schedule should they opt to write your cat a prescription.