There are about 100 different cannabinoids present in the average marijuana plant. Cannabidiol, also known as CBD, is only one of them. Unlike THC, the other vastly used chemical compound in weed, CBD is non-psychoactive. This famous cannabinoid has gained notoriety over the years because of its relaxing and anti-inflammatory properties.
With ongoing marijuana legalization in different states across the U.S., CBD in every form has become all the rage these days. Its potential health benefits have grabbed the attention of scientists, physicians, and thousands of people who want to improve their quality of life. However, due to some prevailing federal restrictions, most research regarding cannabinoids like CBD is still inconclusive — although it’s likely to gain more traction in the coming years.
As curiosity about CBD increases, many questions regarding the potential uses for this compound have arisen. One of these burning questions is, “Is CBD safe for our four-legged friends?” Advocates claim that this hemp extract can address numerous ailments in animals just like it does for us humans. Some research suggests it may even prevent seizures, reduce anxiety, and decrease joint pain in all fur babies — although more is needed for it to be definitive.
CBD for Your Furry Friends
If you often find your pup or kitty cramped under the bed at the slightest hint of fireworks or when someone new is at the front door, you’re not alone. As a pet parent, you know your fuzzy companions deserve a painless and stress-free life. However, many factors in an animal’s surroundings can cause severe anxiety and other mental and physical health problems.
Traveling, moving into a new house, loud noises, strangers, a new pet at home, and even a much-needed trip to the groomer or the vet are just some of the potentially stress-inducing elements your pet may have to face daily. Available in a wide variety of forms such as topical lotions, oils, tinctures, pills, and even dog treats, CBD might just be the solution you and Fido have been looking for.
Cannabidiol is a natural alternative that may aid in helping calm and reduce stress in some pets. Whether you’re a dog or cat parent, your four-legged friend can enjoy the same CBD goodness you know and love.
However, as with any other pet wellness fad, there’s a lot of misinformation and contradictions regarding CBD for pets out there. You, the pet owner, deserve to know how this hemp compound benefits or affects your fur baby.
How Does CBD Affect Your Pets?
We know what you’re thinking, and no. CBD will not make your fuzzy friend “high.” THC is usually to blame for weed’s trippy effects, and no doggy product contains enough of that compound to make your pup feel in a different dimension. Hemp extracts provide wellness support by interacting with your pet’s endocannabinoid receptors just like they would with yours.
The endocannabinoid system, which hosts the CB1 and CB2 receptors both in animals and humans, is located in the central and peripheral nervous systems. Its primary function is to maintain balance within the body. When the organism’s enzymes break down CBD, it interacts with these receptors (and others like the TRPV1) and calms aches, discomfort, swelling, and other ailments.
As mentioned above, studies on the long-term effects of cannabidiol both in animals and humans are still ongoing. However, there’s evidence that this compound has therapeutic potential. Its use has shown to be somewhat effective in treating stress, depression, separation issues, noise aversion, and anxiety. It might also help manage multiple forms of epilepsy, reduce cardiovascular conditions, and help counteract PSTD symptoms like flashbacks and nightmares.
Potential Side Effects of CBD for Pets
Based on how CBD affects humans, there’s anecdotal evidence that this compound might cause some of the same side effects on pets. These include:
- Dry mouth – This could manifest as increased thirst.
- Drowsiness: The calming effect of CBD can make your pet sleepy.
- Lowered blood pressure: In high doses, CBD could make your pet feel a bit lightheaded.
To reduce the probability of your pet experiencing these or any other potential side effects, make sure to follow the indicated dosage every time.
How to Administer CBD for Pets
The recommended CBD dosage — and even the product — varies between different species, shapes, and sizes. Learning the proper amount to give your four-legged pal can be a process of trial and error. That’s why you should always start with the lowest indicated measurement, typically 1–5 mg per 10 pounds of body weight, and go from there. This method allows you to monitor your pet’s progress when starting their CBD regimen.
It’s always a good idea to maintain a constant routine for about a month to see optimal results. As you move forward, you can increase your pet’s daily serving size gradually. Still, make sure you have your vet’s supervision when trying anything new. They must always give you the green light to give your fur baby any medication or natural health solutions — like CBD.
Because they’re easy to administer, most pet owners like CBD tinctures and oils. An excellent product is CBD Direct Club’s broad spectrum pet tincture. It contains the highest amount of natural compounds for optimal effectiveness. The product comes in two flavors — natural and roasted chicken — and has a mess-free dropper that will help you measure the right dose. You can add it to your pet’s favorite food and treats or give it directly in their mouth.
Alternatively, you could always resort to an old, trustworthy solution if you need something on the go. CBD dog chews will undoubtedly make your life easier. You can bring them in your bag on doggie walks or on the way to the vet’s office. If your pet gets a bit uneasy, simply let them enjoy a little treat and, just like that, problem solved.
CBD for Humans vs. CBD for Pets: Is It the Same?
Although cannabidiol offers many benefits to animals and humans alike, you should play it safe. If you want to try the effects of this compound on your dog or cat, stick to products that have been specially designed to treat animals. Remember to seek professional advice before giving your pet any new medication or natural compound. To reduce the possibility of having an adverse reaction, always pay attention to the recommended dosage.
Once you’re ready, check out the numerous pet-specific CBD products that CBD Direct Club has for you. Visit our site today, and start exploring the many perks of the CBD for pets’ life!