5 Questions To Ask Your Vet Before Giving Your Pets CBD
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a type of natural chemical found in cannabis. It’s a type of cannabinoid found in hemp plants or marijuana. However, unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), it doesn’t produce a psychoactive high. But although CBD will not alter your state of mind when used, it still has significant effects on a person’s body.
CBD Vs THC
Despite their similarities in chemical structures, CBD and THC differ in psychoactive effects. THC produces a sense of euphoria, while CBD has a calming effect that may help with depression, seizures, and anxiety.
There are several scientific studies about cannabidiol and how it may affect humans, but there aren’t enough studies on how it might affect your pets. So before giving your pets CBD, here are five questions you can ask your veterinarian:
How Does CBD Affect The Body?
CBD oil’s popularity has recently increased, and its effects on humans and animals are now viewed favorably by many people. According to https://supanaturals.com/blog/how-long-do-the-effects-of-cbd-last/, different CBD products can have different effects on people. How CBD can affect the body depends on its type of extraction.
There are two types of spectrums you can choose from. These are:
- Full-Spectrum CBD: This type includes a range of cannabis plant compounds like cannabinoids, flavonoids, and terpenes.
- Broad-Spectrum CBD: This type only contains non-intoxicating compounds, such as terpenes and flavonoids.
Broad-Spectrum CBD starts as a full-spectrum that undergoes another process to remove the intoxicating compounds.
What Stance Do Veterinarians Take On CBD?
A survey conducted by the VIN News Service, a website that produces content about veterinary information, found that 63 percent of veterinarians revealed that their clients ask them about CBD oil at least once a month. However, most of them don’t want to discuss sensitive topics. This is because in several states, veterinarians who recommend CBD for pets may risk license suspension and grave penalties.
For other states, the rules are less strict. For example, California has a law that prevents regulators from sanctioning veterinarians from discussing CBD for pets with clients. If you live outside these states, you can’t expect your local veterinarian to start recommending CBD products yet.
What Are The Ways To Give CBD to My Pets?
CBD for pets can be given in different forms, such as creams, oils, and treats. Colorado State University conducted a study about how the pharmacokinetics of cannabidiol administered by three delivery methods affected two different dosages to healthy dogs. The researchers found that giving CBD orally is more effective than gel capsules or cream. However, more research still needs to be done.
How Many Doses of CBD Can I Give to My Pets?
Based on a study on dogs with osteoarthritis conducted in 2018, the most effective dose for enhancing dogs’ comfort and activity levels is 2 mg per kg of weight. Dogs may respond differently depending on many factors, which is why it’s essential to take these tips in mind:
- Start with a small dose.
- Monitor your pet’s reactions.
- Increase doses only after observing positive reactions.
How Can CBD Affect My Pets?
Research on CBD has revealed that it may treat human ailments, such as anxiety, epilepsy, chronic pain, and Irritable Bowel Disease (IBD).
Cannabinoids interact with the endocannabinoid receptors located in your pet’s nervous system. Here are some benefits of CBD oil for pets:
- Anti-Inflammatory: This effect enhances the immune system’s inflammatory response to various psychological issues.
- Effective Painkiller: Your pets may experience pain due to multiple factors, such as age, fractures, and surgery. When you constantly use CBD oil for them, it may help treat chronic diseases and reduce pain.
- Reduces Anxiety: Experiencing physical separation, car accidents, and other traumatic events can significantly impact their mental health. In some cases, pets might run away when they get anxiety attacks. An oral dosage of CBD may help calm them down.
- Healthy Coat: Pets need daily skincare. You have to protect them against poor nutrition or skin allergies that might affect their skin, including their coat. Applying CBD oil may improve their fur texture.
- Aids Joint and Bone Health: Arthritic pain is often experienced by pets as they age. Massage and consumption of CBD oil during adulthood can have a positive effect on their bones.
Key Takeaway
There’s no doubting the increasing popularity of CBD products, thanks to their potential efficacy in alleviating symptoms of psychological disorders, skin allergies, and its help with pain management and joint and bone health.
Although research is still needed on its full potential, there is some evidence that CBD may have health benefits to humans and pets. If you decide to try using CBD for your pets, consult a vet first.
