The popularity of CBD oil is growing significantly as it has been used as a natural remedy for many ailments used in humans, dogs and cats. The full form of CBD oil is cannabinoids oil, consisting of more than 100 chemical compounds found in cannabis. Due to containing a high concentration of Cannabinoids, CBD oil can be used for many purposes.
CBD flower is mostly used to get relief from pain and inflammation, reduce anxiety, alleviate cancer-related symptoms, reduce acne, strengthen the heart, prevent diabetes, etc.
Despite many significant benefits, some questions arise in cat owners’ minds regarding the safety of using CBD oil in their cats.
Can CBD oil be Used in Cats?
Unfortunately, very little researches are available regarding the use of CBD oil in cats. But, as per the research done on CBD oil in humans and dogs, the benefits of its use in cats can be determined.
All animals have an endocannabinoid system that plays an important role to keep them free from ailments. The bodies of animals produce the substance called endocannabinoids that are similar to cannabinoids. These substances help the body to react according to the situation.
Cannabinoids can be used in the place of endocannabinoids when the system is not working properly.
Like the other animals, cats also have an endocannabinoid system. Therefore, there should be hardly a shadow of a doubt whether CBD oils can be used for cats or not.
Benefits of Using CBD Oil for Cats
CBD oil can decrease inflammation and chronic pain. This is because CBD affects the endocannabinoid system (ECS) receptors. These receptors reduce pain by producing an anti-inflammatory effect. According to a study of 2016, it was found that a daily dose of 6.2 doses of CBD oil helped to reduce joint pain in rats.
CBD also performs excellently while treating neurological disorders like epilepsy. Other benefits of using CBD in cats are:
- Reduce Anxiety: Cats also become anxious like other animals. Nobody wants their cats to be fearful all the time. Moreover, excessive anxiety may cause other serious issues like digestive issues, fur loss, and other problems. In such a situation, the anti-anxiety effects of CBD may help to provide feelings of relaxation.
- Feline Discomfort: When the cat ages, many ageing symptoms become visible in them. Bone loss, joint inflammation are some of the major ailments that can cause discomfort in your cat. In such a case, CBD oil gives some comfort by improving the mobility of your cat.
- Dementia: When the cat ages, symptoms of dementia are seen. One of such symptoms is howling at night without any reason. These symptoms are visible when they feel distressed. CBD oil regenerates brain cells by activating the endocannabinoid system that improves neuroplasticity.
Which CBD Oil should You Use?
CBD oils containing sardine oil should be used for cats. Since cats can not digest healthy fatty acids like coconut oil, you should avoid using CBD oil mixed with coconut oil. Even if you prefer to use coconut oil-based CBD oil, make sure you get a concentrated one.
How Much is CBD Oil Required?
You can start with 2-4 mg of CBD per 10 pounds. For cats with cancer or seizure, you can use 4-6 mg of CBD per 10 pounds. You will have to give more CBD in more difficult conditions. But remember, you should start small and increase the dose slowly until you feel that your cat is feeling comfortable. However, a little more or a little less dose does not cause any harm.
How Will You Use the Oil?
One of the easiest ways to use CBD oil is by mixing it with your cat’s food. Since its taste is like any other oil, your cat won’t create trouble. Notice your cat’s responses throughout the day after taking the oil in the morning. Repeat the same process also in the evening. Then, increase the doses after trying the same for a week.
Why is CBD oil Popular for Cats?
Cats are like a part of the family for every cat owner. The relationship between a cat and a cat owner is of extreme love and affection. As a result, cat owners look for every possible way to give comfortable lives to their cats. In addition, whenever their cats fall ill, they want to give their cats safe and effective treatment.
Although there are many medications, some of them may not be effective and have side effects. Since CBD oil has gained early scientific success in humans and dogs, many cat owners prefer to treat their cats with CBD oil. Even some dog owners have achieved success in treating their dogs with CBD oil.
What Kinds of Risks are Involved in the use of CBD Oil?
Due to a lack of proper research, many things like side effects, long term use, amounts of administration for specific reasons are still unknown. There is also a lack of pure sources. Since there is no strict regulation over the production of CBD, it may contain contaminated ingredients.
Therefore, you should consult with the veterinarian before administering the oil to your cats.
While treating your cats with CBD oil, you should remember that your cats should be given the proper dose. Otherwise, overdosing may lead to adverse effects. Moreover, you should also be careful while buying the products. Finally, you should also make sure that the products you have bought are tested in the laboratory.
Is CBD Addictive?
CBD does not produce any intoxicating effects. Therefore it does not have addiction-related effects. According to the World Health Organization report, “ Evidence from well-controlled human experimental research indicates that CBD is not associated with abuse potential.”
Even CBD is used to treat drug addiction. According to a report of 2015, it was found that CBD helps treat nicotine and cannabis addiction.
Is CBD Oil Legal?
A cannabis product containing less than 0.3 per cent THC is classified as “hemp”, which can be used without any restriction. The legality of using CBD oil or Delta8 depends on the place where you live.
According to Dr Gary Richter, who is a Veterinarian in California, “Even if you live in a state where cannabis is legal, it can be illegal for a Veterinarian to tell a pet owner how to appropriately use these products.”
Conclusion
An expert always gives better advice in his designated field. Therefore, you should approach a Veterinarian before using CBD oil on your cats. Thus you will be able to get proper guidance regarding its use.