Are CBD Products Safe for Pets?

Cannabidiol, commonly known as CBD, is one of many naturally occurring compounds that’s found in cannabis. Today, the therapeutic properties of CBD are being actively studied in human and veterinary medicine. CBD is touted to have many medicinal benefits and uses, but pet owners are often unsure about whether it’s safe for their pet.

Before deciding to use any type of CBD product, be sure to speak with your PetWellClinic vet about what the right choice is for you and your pet. We do not sell CBD for pets in our clinics, but we do carry safe prevention products that can help your dog or cat stay happy and healthy. 

PetWellClinic carries safe preventative care products in our clinics!

Since the use of CBD products in pets is a newer phenomenon, it’s important to stay educated on current research and always prioritize the safety of your furry friend. Learn more about what CBD can be used for below, as well as some concerns. 

What health problems can CBD help pets with?

Early research suggests that CBD can help pets with anxiety, chronic pain, and seizures. However, not many studies have been done with CBD and pets, and no products have been approved by the FDA for animals.

When it comes to pain, CBD may play a role in lowering inflammation and relieving pain by affecting the nerves that are involved in creating the sensations of pain. Reducing inflammation can potentially relieve aches and pains in your pets’ joints. Routinely taking your pet to the vet can help prevent common illnesses that may be causing your pet’s pain.

Treating anxiety is another possible use of CBD in animals. Many pets experience anxiety when their humans are gone, or when they’re exposed to loud noises. This can lead to unwanted behaviors like urinating where they shouldn’t and destroying your property. CBD is believed to ease nervousness and create a sense of calm. 

To learn about natural ways to calm your pet, read our blog!

Scientific research has also been conducted regarding seizures in dogs and the use of CBD as treatment. It’s been shown to lower the frequency of seizures when used in combination with other anti-seizure medications. While a significant amount of research exists on CBD use for people experiencing seizures, there is still a long way to go when it comes to pet CBD research. Again, speak with our staff at PetWellClinic before giving your dog anything containing CBD.  

What are some common side effects of CBD for animals?

The side effects of CBD in animals are similar to those experienced by humans. Those include:

  • Changes to appetite
  • Fatigue
  • Diarrhea
  • Dry mouth

These side effects can increase when you increase the dosage of CBD. While they are typically mild and go away over time, there are potential risks of CBD products for pets to be aware of.

A word of caution regarding pets and CBD

There are some things to watch out for in the way CBD products are made when it comes to giving them to your pets. If you are considering CBD gummies, make sure they don’t have artificial sweeteners. Xylitol is an extremely toxic artificial sweetener for dogs in even the smallest amounts. THC is also extremely toxic, so be sure to not give your pet any CBD-related product that contains THC. 

Remember that not much scientific research has been done on CBD and animals. CBD is also largely unregulated, so if you purchase products, there’s no guarantee that you would be giving your pet a safe or even correct dosage. 

How is CBD administered to animals?

CBD for pets can come in the same forms as it does for humans, including oils and edibles (like treats or capsules). They can also come in topical ointments and balms. It’s typically given by mouth or under the tongue, so bottled oils with droppers may be the easiest way to give your pet CBD in order to ensure a verifiable dosage. 

PetWellClinic does not endorse any CBD or CBD-related product.

If you do determine that CBD could be helpful for your dog or cat, it’s important to find products with safe formulas made specifically for pets rather than humans. Be sure to talk to your veterinarian at PetWellClinic before administering any CBD to your pet.

Schedule preventative care

If your pet has been a patient at PetWellClinic for a while, your vet will have a pretty good idea of the potential risks and/or benefits of CBD for him or her. The vet will also recognize changes or issues your pet may face.

Schedule a preventative care visit to keep your pet healthy. That includes things like a annual rabies vaccine, heartworm tests, and wellness checks. Whether it’s routine visits for your pet, or bringing your pet to the vet for the first time, you can count on us to provide you with the services you need right when you need it. 

PetWellClinic provides convenient veterinary care for pet owners. PetWellClinic has locations and services built with convenience in mind. Stop by with your pet any time! No appointment necessary.

Visit your local PetWellClinic today to ask our team about CBD and your pet!

PetWellClinic does not endorse any CBD or CBD-related product.

According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), CBD or any other hemp-containing products have not been approved for use in animals as drugs or food/feed supplements, which are the only two legal options for marketing animal products in the US.

The statements made regarding these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The efficacy of these products has not been confirmed by FDA-approved research. PetWellClinic assumes no responsibility for the improper use of these products. CBD products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. All information presented here is not meant as a substitute for or alternative to information from health care practitioners. Please consult your health care professional about potential interactions or other possible complications before using any product. The Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act requires this notice.

No Comments

Sorry, the comment form is closed at this time.