A guide to using CBD oil for pets | Cannabis Wiki
Now that so many people are benefitting from CBD oil, it has raised the highly debated question of whether or not animals can achieve the same level of relief using a natural compound. There are many great differences in the biology of human vs pets, but there are also several similarities, and one of them is how cannabinoids interact with the system. Here you will find everything that you might want to know about using CBD oil for pets.
What is CBD oil?
CBD is a cannabinoid that is often associated with cannabis, but CBD oil is mainly derived from hemp plants, which produce the element in more significant quantities without the addition of THC. To extract the CBD from the plant carrier oil such as coconut or olive, it is used to soak the plant materials, which draws out the compound into an easy to administer liquid form.
Is CBD oil safe for pets?
CBD oil is a non-toxic element that does not produce the psychoactive effects as the well-known cannabinoid THC, so it will not make your pet feel stoned or drunk and should not impair motor function. The gentle nature of CBD oil allows for a various range of dosing options, and no matter how much you or your furry friend ingest, there is no way to overdose.
Which animals can benefit from CBD oil?
The reason that CBD oil works for both humans and animals is due to the presence of the endocannabinoid system, which is an intricate network of receptors that is designed to interact with endocannabinoids.
All animals that are equipped with this powerful system can benefit from using CBD oil as a therapeutic agent. This biological quality is one that tends to be present in most mammals, which is why cats, dogs, horses, bunnies, gerbils, rats, mice and any other pet that falls in between with fur can benefit from using CBD oil.
How CBD oil works on animals
The endocannabinoid system is a complex system that consists of hundreds of receptors that are located primarily in the brain and nervous system. When CBD interacts with these receptors, it triggers the body’s natural response to things like pain, injury and even appetite. Once this exchange takes place, a rush of chemicals and hormones are released, which work together to provide the incredible CBD oil benefits.
CBD oil benefits
Animals, just like humans, are prone to an array of medical conditions, and much of what we face in our lives, is related to the natural aging process. As the body gets older, the processes that control our most basic urges and sensations can degrade, leading to a decreased quality of life.
Sometimes, age isn’t a factor, as common diseases like epilepsy and arthritis can show themselves at any time, and all of these break downs within the body can be helped with a dose of CBD oil. CBD oil is known for its medicinal benefits and can help to speed up healing and provide relief from symptoms and conditions such as:
- Pain
- Arthritis
- Stiffness
- Nausea
- Insomnia
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Cancer
- Inflammation
- Lack of appetite
CBD oil side effects
It doesn’t seem to matter what species takes CBD oil, as the list of potential side effects remains exactly the same. While it is a good idea to remember this list so that you know what to look for during treatment, but adverse effects are incredibly rare and easily avoidable as long as you follow the most recommended guidelines for dosing. The possible side effects of CBD in pets are:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Allergic reaction (to either CBD or the carrier oil)
- Upset stomach
- Insomnia
- Interference with other prescribed medications
CBD oil for pets, dosing guidelines
If you follow these simple guidelines, then you will increase your chances of a successful treatment and decrease the probability of experience any sort of adverse side effects.
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Always test the oil on your pet's skin before offering it orally, as this small amount of contact is often enough to expose an allergy to the carrier oil or cannabinoid.
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Follow your vet’s advice, especially if your pet is taking prescribed medications, as CBD oil has the potential to interfere with the effectiveness of several different medicines.
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Start with the lowest dose possible, which is between 5mg-10mg. While some recommend a weight guideline, every pet reacts differently to cannabinoids, and starting with a smaller amount will result in a less uncomfortable bout of side effects if they do arise.
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Give your pet no more than 3 doses of CBD oil per day.
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Try to avoid CBD oil late at night, as it might lead to restlessness or insomnia, thanks to the surge of energy that this element often creates.
How to use CBD oil for pets
If you want to try CBD oil for your furry companion, then you have a few different delivery methods to choose from, including both homemade and store-bought products. Some pets don’t mind the taste of CBD oil, and for them, a few drops under the tongue might be a breeze, but for more difficult personalities, sometimes it is best to discreetly add it to their regimen through:
- Treats
- Food
- Pure (dropper under the tongue)
- Drinking water
What is the best CBD oil for pets?
The most important thing to remember when you are shopping for CBD oil for pets is to avoid anything that might be contaminated with THC. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the euphoria-inducing element that is generally associated with the recreational use of marijuana, and it is incredibly toxic to animals.
That is why it is so important to seek out a reliable supplier that offers strict product testing in accordance with current regulations. Otherwise, you might be placing your pet at risk rather than assisting them with whatever medical problems you are trying to treat.
