CBD for pets: Dogs and cats

As research on the different cannabinoids and terpenes - and other substances produced by the cannabis plant - progresses, more and more testimonies are insuring their effectiveness. Although more in-depth research is still required on these compounds and their action on the human body, the use of cannabinoids such as CBD to treat pet ailments is becoming more common, as many users have realized the enormous benefits that can behave in some cases.

The endocannabinoid system of animals

The vertebrates, as our beloved pets, have an endocannabinoid system formed - as the human - by CB-1 and CB-2 receptors and produces endcannabinoids. In the presence of cannabinoids in the body, these receptors respond in a very similar way as they do in the case of humans, so it is believed that the same benefits can also be obtained. While the CB-1 receptor centers its activity on the brain and central nervous system (CNS), the CB-2 receptor is found in peripheral organs, such as the immune system. The interesting fact about cannabis is that the phytocannabinoids that produces activate these receptors, obtaining a series of beneficial effects for the organism.

However, before starting to treat an animal with cannabis, we must bear in mind that psychoactive cannabinoids such as THC or tetrahydrocannabinol have a more potent effect on our pets than on ourselves, which in some cases can seriously compromise their health; THC produces psychoactive effects, damages your liver permanently and can even cause death, something that does not happen in humans. That is why, in the case of the medicinal use of cannabis in animals, edible, extracts or oils rich in CBD are used and, we will not tire of repeating it, without THC, that is, from industrial hemp and not what is usually known as marijuana or narcotic cannabis.

However, and although CBD extracts are completely legal, there is no regulation that includes them among the substances that can be prescribed by veterinarians, which are usually limited to synthetic drugs that in many cases have side effects of notorious seriousness. That is why, despite the absence of such regulation, many people choose to provide CBD to their pets, which as we will see below, seems to be able to help a great deal in a good number of cases.

Benefits of CBD in pets

We already know that certain cannabinoids produced by cannabis such as CBD for pets can help them, which like us have receptors that respond to their presence. But how can the CBD help our animals? Cannabinoids influence various aspects such as the feeling of appetite or pain, stress or anxiety, so it would potentially be of great help when it comes to achieving better health for our beloved companions.

If we take a look at the medicinal properties of CBD, its multiple effects seem ideal to combat a large number of ailments and/or symptoms common in dogs, cats and other mammals that usually accompany us. As an example, let's see how you can help in the case of dogs and cats:

CBD for dogs

The administration of CBD or cannabidiol influences various areas of animal health, such as memory, pain sensation, appetite or mobility. In addition, it seems that dogs have more CB-1 receptors than any other animal species, so the administration of phytocannabinoids (cannabinoids produced by plants) to activate these receptors seems especially promising given their potential efficacy. Thus, the CBD would be useful to treat:

·        Inflammation

·        Anxiety or stress

·        Lack of appetite

·        Arthritis

·        Pain associated with cancer

·        Seizures or seizures

·        Allergies and skin problems

In this way, you can improve the life of animals suffering from arthritis or reduced mobility (something common in older pets), stimulate their appetite or calm them in stressful situations, with lots of noise or lights, such as fireworks, travel or storms (something that everyone who shares a house with an animal knows they hate).

CBD for cats

The CBD can also be of great help to another of the most common pets in our homes, our feline friends. As is logical for a simple matter of weight, the doses will not be the same as in the case of dogs, and in the same way that happens with these should not be administered THC to cats . However, if we are going to give CBD to our cat, it is advisable to use only CBD oil and no other edible products that may contain fibers or parts of the plant that would be suitable for most dogs. We can use CBD to treat several conditions, many of them associated with old age:

Cardiovascular problems

·        Arthritis and inflammations

·        Cancer

·        Chronic kidney disease

·        Diabetes

·        Hyperthyroidism

·        Appetite problems

·        Anxiety or stress

·        Seizures