CBD for animals: what are the benefits?

Perhaps you yourself have experienced the benefits of CBD, and you are wondering if it could help your four-legged friend?

 

Cream, oil, treat, for dogs, cats, horses or rodents, we tell you everything you need to know about CBD and animals.

 

 

CBD in animals: how does it work?

 

First, it's important to know that the CBD molecule influences the endocannabinoid system in the body. This system is composed of numerous receptors distributed throughout the body. It is present in humans as well as in animals, whether mammals, reptiles, birds, or fish.

 

When these receptors are activated, they generate chemical signals that influence several bodily functions such as the management of stress, anxiety and pain, as well as the physical response to inflammation, and even some neurological functions.

 

Which animals can take CBD?

As mentioned, all animals (except insects and crustaceans) possess an endocannabinoid system. They are therefore sensitive to CBD, but also to other cannabinoids present in hemp and cannabis.

 

CBD and dogs

Unsurprisingly, dogs are the animals in which the effects of CBD have been most analyzed.

 

Some studies suggest that CBD may help with:

 

Fighting pain and inflammation [1]: As in humans, studies have shown that CBD may have a beneficial effect on chronic pain, arthritis and other similar inflammatory conditions.

 

Reducing epileptic seizures [2]: a study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association (JAVMA) in 2019 showed that CBD reduced the frequency of epileptic seizures in dogs undergoing conventional anti-epileptic treatment.

 

Calming anxiety [3]: A number of studies have found that CBD intake can help dogs cope with difficult and stressful situations. This can include, for example, calming separation anxiety or travel stress.

 

CBD and rodents

Although dogs are the most studied domestic animals, the majority of CBD studies have been conducted in laboratories on rats and mice. Therefore, there is a very large body of data on the effects of CBD on rodents.

 

As with dogs and humans, CBD has been shown to have positive effects on chronic inflammation, epilepsy, and anxiety. But studies have also shown that CBD can stimulate appetite, prevent neurodegenerative diseases (Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, etc.)(4), and reduce brain damage in rats that have suffered a stroke5]

 

CBD and cats

Cats are among the animals somewhat neglected in CBD studies. A study published in 2019 in the international veterinary journal Animals showed that CBD is well tolerated by cats at appropriate doses [6]. However, we are unaware of any serious study that has attempted to comprehensively analyze the impact of CBD in cats.

 

However, some cat owners report that CBD has a positive effect on their pets. It reportedly helps cats manage stress and anxiety, and may even help reduce aggressive behavior in feline felines.

 

The other animals

Very limited studies have been conducted on horses, fish, and birds. Less common and less focused, they have revealed roughly the same type of effect as in humans, dogs, and rodents.

 

 

Are there any precautions to take before giving CBD to your pet?

 

CBD is safe and is generally well tolerated by animals, adults, and the elderly, but what is generally true does not always work in specific cases.

 

The first precaution to take before giving CBD to your pet is to consult your veterinarian. Knowing your pet and its health status, they will be able to give you informed advice.

 

Next, you need to find out the appropriate dose to give your pet; naturally, you won't give the same dose to a hamster as to a 35 kg Malinois.

 

Finally, it is always best to adopt a gradual approach. Give less than the recommended dose for the first administration, in checkout to check that your animal does not have an intolerance to the compound and that it does not experience any particular side effects, before gradually increasing the dose if necessary.

 

 

In what form should I give CBD to my animals?

With the growth of the CBD market in France and Europe, CBD products for animals have not been left behind. Several types of products are available.

 

The oils

They are generally administered orally, but can also be applied to the skin to soothe itching and redness. Equipped with pipettes, they allow for easy administration of the recommended dose to your pet.

 

The sweets

Whether in the form of small cakes or kibble, CBD treats are perfect for the pickiest animals and those who categorically refuse to swallow anything that seems suspicious to them.

 

The balms

CBD creams are for topical application only. They are used to soothe and protect animals' skin. Combining CBD with other natural active compounds (essential oils, beeswax, etc.), they can treat dry or damaged areas, as well as redness and itching.

 

CBD for animals: what is the correct dosage?

 

The correct dosage of CBD oils for animals depends primarily on their weight and the desired effect. The drops can be administered in several doses spaced at least 6 hours apart.

 

Here is theCBD dosage for animals. This table shows the number of daily drops of CBD to give your pet:

 

Discover our CBD oils
 

With a 5% oil, each drop contains approximately 2.5 mg of CBD. If your oil contains 2.5%, each drop will contain 1.25 mg of CBD. If your oil contains 10% CBD, each drop contains 5 mg of CBD.