Is CBD a New Option for Pets in Pain?

From treats and new toys to top-of-the-line kibble and daily walks, we may take care of our pets better than we take care of ourselves. And when our pets aren’t feeling their best, we don’t feel our best. If your pet is experiencing chronic pain, and medications don’t seem to be working, it may be time to explore some other options. Read below to learn more about how CBD for dogs and cats may be an alternative for treating pain.

Current Research on CBD for Pets

Although current research on CBD for dogs and cats is relatively limited, some studies suggest hemp oil for pets may provide some serious benefits. One study from 2018 indicates that CBD may increase comfort and activity levels for dogs with osteoarthritis, while another study from 2019 suggests that CBD may also be beneficial for dogs with seizures. A third study evaluates the efficacy of different CBD treatments and reports that CBD oil for dogs and cats is the best delivery method for our furry friends when compared to topicals and capsules. More research is needed to understand exactly what symptoms CBD may address and which pets can benefit, but the positive conclusions drawn from these studies are a helpful indicator of the future of CBD for pets.

How Does CBD for Pets Work?

Like humans, CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid systems of dogs and cats to promote overall wellness. The endocannabinoid system has a range of receptors located on the surface of our cells, and cannabinoids–like those found naturally in our bodies as well as in CBD–bind with these receptors to impact how our bodies function. Each person and pet experiences different effects from CBD thanks to differences in our endocannabinoid systems, but cannabinoids are designed to react naturally with the body to maintain proper performance.

Although humans and pets have similar physical reactions to CBD, there are some differences that are important to remember. Dogs and cats often have more sensitive digestive systems than humans, which is why pet owners should find CBD oil that is suspended in olive oil and more easily digestible than MCT oil. And though it may seem obvious, pets weigh less than their owners. Dogs and cats should only take CBD oil in a pet-approved concentration, rather than sharing human CBD oil with man’s best friend.

Is CBD Right for My Pet?

If you have noticed a change in your pet’s behavior and are ready to give CBD a try, be sure to start slowly. It can be difficult to know the right amount of CBD that your pet would benefit from, so we encourage pet owners to start with a small amount and increase the dosage over time when needed. Just like with humans, you should monitor your pet for any side effects, including changes in energy, eating habits, or behavior, and adjust your pet’s CBD intake accordingly. If you think your dog or cat is having a negative reaction to CBD oil, don’t hesitate to contact your veterinarian. Although some veterinarians are not permitted to recommend CBD for dogs and cats explicitly, they can help you look out for the overall health of your pet and can always be relied on in case of an emergency. You know your four-legged friend best, so it’s up to you as a pet parent to decide if CBD is right for your dog or cat.

If your furry friend’s tail isn’t wagging like it used to and you’re sniffing around for a solution, your search might just be over. 

At Redeem Therapeutics, we are committed to providing natural, effective CBD products to dogs and cats, as well as their humans. With over 60 years of experience developing high-quality and effective products using industry-standard manufacturing practices, Redeem Therapeutics is no stranger to creating products that work. Whether you have experienced the benefits of CBD yourself or are ready to try something new to reclaim your health, Redeem Therapeutics has got you–and your four-legged friend–covered.