Cannabidiol, or CBD, has received considerable attention as a multifunctional dietary supplement in recent years. CBD, a cannabis plant derivative that mimics the body’s naturally occurring cannabinoids, is used to treat anxiety, chronic pain, inflammation, and autoimmune conditions such as arthritis.
CBD oil is not only useful for humans, but it can also be used to keep our furry companions happy and healthy. All animals possess an endocannabinoid system, or ECS, which uses cannabinoids produced naturally to regulate the balance of other systems.
Supplementing your dog or cat’s diet with CBD can help maintain their ECS’s health. If you intend to administer CBD oil to your pets, consider the following guidelines for maximizing their benefit:
Find The Right Product
Despite the fact that CBD regulates the ECS in both humans and animals, pets and humans require vastly different dosages and are affected differently by the cannabis-derived compounds. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the chemical responsible for the “high” associated with marijuana use, is toxic to animals.
Hemp contains significantly lower levels of THC than marijuana. With THC levels as low as 0.3%, CBD oil extracted from hemp is readily available and safe for your pet. Organic oils are the best option; therefore, ensure that the oil was extracted via cold press or another safe method so that it does not contain potentially toxic solvents.
Lastly, to ensure the correct dosage, use CBD oil formulated specifically for cats and dogs, as human-targeted products contain different levels of cannabinoids and may be harmful to your pet. Visit www.holistapet.com for an extensive selection of high-quality, organic CBD oil products for pets.
Know Your Pet’s Problems
CBD oil can be used to treat a wide variety of health conditions, but before you begin administering it, you should determine which condition you wish to treat. CBD, like any vitamin you give your pet as a nutritional supplement, is intended to improve their happiness and health. However, if you do not know how you want it to help, it may be difficult to determine if it is effective! CBD is most frequently used to treat anxiety in cats and dogs, but it can also reduce inflammation and joint pain and enhance digestion.
Find The Proper Dosage
In the same way that a human’s CBD requirements are vastly different from those of a cat or dog, a 10-pound housecat will not have the same CBD requirements as an 80-pound German Shepherd. Numerous retailers will provide a dosage chart to help you determine how much CBD oil your pet should take on a regular basis. Some even combine CBD with other beneficial herbs, such as catnip, for the most finicky felines.
As CBD is regulated as a dietary supplement, it is essential to consult your veterinarian before giving it to your pet. Your veterinarian can help you determine whether CBD is a healthy option for your cat or dog, as well as how much and how frequently you should administer it.
Make It A Part Of Their Diet
The majority of CBD tinctures for pets will come with a dropper cap, but it is unlikely that your pet will tolerate you squirting it directly into their mouths. First, give them the dropper to smell. If they start licking it, then you’re in luck! They likely enjoy the flavor, so you should have no difficulty feeding it to them. If they are uninterested, you can sprinkle it on food or treats. For finicky pets, an irresistible treat (such as tuna fish for cats or peanut butter for dogs) is a great way to get them to consume CBD. If you already have a routine for administering vitamins to your pet, CBD will likely fit in seamlessly.
Use It Wisely
CBD is very effective at calming an anxious pet, and administering it should not cause them or you stress. Even if you initially have trouble convincing your pet to take CBD, remaining calm will help ensure that your cat or dog does not associate the supplement with anxiety. CBD can also be instrumental in addressing any additional anxieties your pet may experience. If your pet suffers from separation anxiety, for instance, try administering CBD about a half hour before you leave. The resulting feelings of well-being should assist them in adjusting to your absence more effectively.
Bottom Line
CBD’s full benefits are still being investigated. While it should always be used with caution and in moderation, it may have long-term health benefits for your pet, allowing you to enjoy a happier, healthier life together!