CBD Oil for Cats: Good Idea or Paws Off?
As a pet owner, Oakhurst Veterinary Hospital knows that you want to provide the best for your animals. CBD oil has been a constant topic of conversation for pet owners, and it’s only natural to wonder if it might have some benefits for whatever ails your critter. So is CBD oil for cats a good idea? Or just too good to be true?
Why CBD?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is one of the over 100 compounds found in the cannabis plant. Unlike its infamous counterpart THC, CBD does not have psychoactive properties. Instead, it works on the endocannabinoid system in the body, and has effects on the nervous system, digestive tract, and immune system.
There is some evidence that CBD oil may have positive effects on the body by:
- Reducing pain and inflammation
- Discouraging cancer cells
- Helping seizures and other neurological problems
- Reducing anxiety and stress
Anxiety in cats is a big problem. We are also always on the hunt to find better ways to manage pain from things like arthritis in our pet patients. CBD oil in pets has the potential to be a valuable tool.
What We Know About CBD Oil for Cats
CBD oil has lots of promising potential uses for pets, and it is very exciting to have new options at our fingertips.
It is important to remember, however, that we are just in the beginning stages of understanding CBD and its uses. Our understanding about dosing, side effects, benefits, and contraindications are very rudimentary.
We should also note that CBD oil is classified as a supplement versus a medication. This means that there is very little regulation on its manufacturing and distribution, and batches and individual supplementscan vary greatly in things like purity and dosage.
If you do decide to try CBD oil for your pet, please:
- Use hemp-derived CBD products (legal in New Jersey)
- Select a product that lists its cannabinoids and their concentration (versus simply hemp)
- Choose a company that provides an independent Certificate of Analysis of the content of their oil
- Ensure that the product is tested for and free from harmful contaminants like solvents, mold, and pesticides
- Select products that utilize CO2 extraction methods instead of solvent-based
- Start at a low dose and increase slowly to minimize side effects
- Keep a journal to help identify benefits or side effects for your cat
- Tell us if your pet is taking CBD oil
Right now the laws are a little murky on veterinarians prescribing CBD oil, because while it is legal at the state level there are still federal laws in place preventing a clear legality.
We do know that while CBD oil for cats does seem to be relatively safe, marijuana itself can certainly cause toxicity.
If you ever have questions about your pet or what supplements are recommended, don’t hesitate to contact us. Your pets and their health are important to us, and we are here to help.