CBD or cannabidiol is one of 113 known cannabinoids found in the cannabis/hemp plant. CBD does not contain THC, the psychoactive compound that creates the “high” feeling. CBD is non-psychoactive and completely safe to use with your pet without getting them high. The CBD in most products is sourced from hemp, which has the naturally lowest amount of THC. CBD has no known toxicity levels but it does have side effects for some pets. CBD is used to treat a variety of ailments and improve pet health in a number of ways. Let’s take a look.
What is CBD Used for in Pets
CBD is used for a number of different ailments in pets and to maintain optimum health in a number of other areas. Here is a short list of the different things CBD is used for in pets.
- Pain (moderate to severe)
- Aggression
- Fear/anxiety (travel, thunderstorms, separation anxiety)
- Calming
- Arthritis and joint pain
- Cancer and tumors
- Chronic inflammation
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
- Digestive problems
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease
- Muscle spasms and tremors
- Immune system health
- Heart health
- Eye health
- Stress
- Skin conditions
- Skin health and shiny coat
- Seizures
- Neurological disorders
CBD Side Effects in Pets
While there is no known toxicity level for CBD, that doesn’t mean using CBD is without side effects. The side effects of CBD for pets are generally minor and subside with time. Those side effects include:
- Dry mouth – For some pets, CBD can decrease saliva production. This usually results in excess thirst.
- Drowsiness – The calming effect of CBD can cause some pets to experience minor drowsiness.
- Lowed blood pressure – CBD temporarily lowers blood pressure. This can result in your pet feeling a bit dizzy or light-headed for a short time after ingestion.
CBD can help with a variety of ailments or health concerns you might have regarding your pet with very minimal side effects. Is CBD right for your pet? Talk to your veterinarian about whether CBD products are an appropriate choice for your pet.
