CBD for cats - What You need to know
17 February 2023
As pet owners, we always want our furry friends to be healthy and happy. That's why we're always looking for new ways to improve their quality of life. CBD, or cannabidiol, has become a popular natural remedy for various ailments in both humans and animals. It has shown promise in helping with anxiety, pain, inflammation, and more. But what about CBD for cats specifically?
In this post, we will explore the potential benefits of CBD for cats and address some common questions and concerns.
(Click here to read about CBD for dogs.)
Is CBD safe for cats?
One of the most important considerations when giving any supplement to your pet is safety.
Fortunately, CBD is generally considered safe for cats, as long as it's derived from hemp and contains 0% THC. THC is the psychoactive compound found in marijuana that can be toxic to pets.
CBD derived from hemp does not contain enough THC to cause any harm. However, some products may contain more than the legal limit of THC or other harmful contaminants. Always purchase from a reputable source and read the label carefully before giving any CBD product to your cat. Like iCBD Global.
All iCBD Global products are European Health registered (CPNP) & FSA Novel food registered (U.K. Food Standards Agency) and you can travel with them legally anywhere in the EU or U.K.
(Here's a link to a study that observed the adverse effects of CBD for cats and dogs.)
Does CBD work for cats?
While there is limited research on CBD for cats, preliminary studies (click here for the article) suggest that it may be effective in treating certain conditions. CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating various physiological processes, including mood, appetite, and pain sensation. Here are some potential benefits of CBD for cats:
- Anxiety: CBD may help reduce anxiety in cats, especially those with separation anxiety or fear of loud noises like thunder or fireworks.
- Pain and Inflammation: CBD may help reduce pain and inflammation in cats with arthritis or other inflammatory conditions.
- Digestive Issues: CBD may help regulate digestive processes and reduce nausea and vomiting in cats.
- Seizures: CBD may help reduce the frequency and severity of seizures in cats with epilepsy.
Can You give CBD to cats for anxiety? What is the correct dosage?
Yes, you can give CBD to cats for anxiety, but it's important to start with a low dose and gradually increase it until you find the right dose for your cat.
The correct dosage depends on various factors, including the cat's weight, age, and the severity of their anxiety. A general guideline is to start with 0.1-0.5mg of CBD per pound of body weight per day and increase the dose gradually as needed. It's also important to note that CBD may take several weeks to build up in the cat's system, so it's important to be patient and consistent with the dosing.
- Micro (0.1 mg/kg) — anxiety, fear, stress, behavioural issues, mild pain, muscle tension
- Medium (0.2-0.5 mg/kg) — osteoarthritis, moderate pain, muscle spasms
- High (0.5-1.0 mg/kg) — moderate to severe pain, neurogenic pain, degenerative myelopathy, tremors, idiopathic epilepsy, diabetes regulation, IBD
- Ultra (1.0-5.0 mg/kg) — refractory epilepsy, anti-neoplastic, refractory pain, hospice care
CBD for aggressive cats or for those in heat
Cats in heat or those displaying hostile behaviour can be challenging for pet owners to manage.
CBD may be a natural remedy to help calm their nerves and reduce aggressive behaviour.
It's important to note that aggression in cats can also be caused by underlying medical conditions or environmental factors, so it's important to consult with a veterinarian before giving your cat any new supplement.
Arthritis, kidney disease and CBD for cats
CBD may be a promising natural remedy for cats with arthritis, kidney disease, and other chronic conditions. CBD has shown anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, which may help reduce the discomfort and inflammation associated with these conditions.
However, it's important to note that CBD is not a cure for these conditions and should be used as a complementary therapy alongside other treatments recommended by a veterinarian.
Best ways to give CBD to cats
There are several ways to administer CBD to cats, including:
- CBD oil: This is the most common form of CBD for cats. It can be added to your cat's food or directly administered under their tongue using a dropper.
- CBD treats: CBD treats are a convenient and tasty way to give CBD to your cat. They come in a variety of flavours and strengths and are a good option for cats who are picky eaters or don't like the taste of CBD oil.
- CBD capsules: CBD capsules can be hidden in your cat's food or administered directly. They are a good option for cats who need precise dosing.
- Topical CBD: Topical CBD products like balms and creams can be applied to the skin to help with localized pain and inflammation.
When giving CBD to your cat, it's important to start with a low dose and monitor their response. If you notice any adverse effects, such as lethargy or vomiting, stop giving CBD and consult with a veterinarian.
CBD oil or CBD treats for cats?
Both CBD oil and CBD treats are effective ways to administer CBD to cats. The choice between the two depends on your cat's preference and your convenience. CBD oil is more versatile and can be added to your cat's food or administered directly.
CBD treats are more convenient and can be given as a snack or reward. It's important to choose high-quality products that are specifically formulated for cats and contain the appropriate dosage of CBD. We recommend iAnimal from iCBD Global.
Hemp oil vs CBD for cats
Hemp oil and CBD are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same thing. Hemp oil is made from the seeds of the hemp plant and does not contain CBD. It's often used as a nutritional supplement for its high omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acid content.
CBD, on the other hand, is derived from the flowers and leaves of the hemp plant and is used for its therapeutic properties. While hemp oil may have some nutritional benefits for cats, it does not have the same therapeutic properties as CBD (as mentioned above).
Team iCBD Global