Is CBD Good for Cats? The Facts, Benefits, and Your Questions Answered

What is CBD?

Cannabis use by humans dates all the way back to 1500 BC. For centuries humans have consumed this plant to support both body and soul. Back in 1964, the Israeli chemist Dr. Raphael Mechoulam’s research group was the first to isolate one of the main cannabinoids in the plant—cannabidiol (CBD).

Cannabis is known to contain high amounts of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a naturally occurring chemical called a cannabinoid with many proven therapeutic benefits. However, THC is also responsible for the euphoria and mind-altering effects users get from smoking or ingesting marijuana.

Unlike THC, CBD does not produce mind-altering or euphoric effects when taken. When using products containing CBD, you and your cat can take advantage of the properties of cannabis without the accompanying high.

While CBD is found in low quantities in strains of marijuana, the compound is found in large concentrations in the hemp plant. In December 2018 the United States amended the Farm Bill, allowing for the production and use of industrial hemp.

Your Cat & CBD?

Cats have fairly patterned behavior. They act on primitive instinct, and if you have a cat, you already know each one develops their own special personality traits and quirks.

Some cats may be very cuddly and vocal while others are shyer and quieter. Other cats may be quite playful and entertaining, while others seem to sleep a lot and are more standoffish.

No matter what traits your cat exhibits, if out-of-the-ordinary behaviors like digestive problems, mobility issues, lethargy, and over-vocalization occur, it may be a cause for concern and a trip to the vet may be in order.

A holistic approach to care including regular vet checks, a well-balanced diet, and adequate exercise can extend and add to the quality of life for your feline companion. You may even consider adding hemp-derived CBD to your cat's regular regime.

While cannabis and cannabinoids are becoming more widely studied for use in humans, and we now are starting to see some canine related studies coming from universities like Cornell and Colorado State, research on CBD for cats still remains less common.

Your Cats Health

Like humans, cats can display nervous tendencies, experience discomfort due to the aging process or from overexerting themselves in daily activities, let's be honest we don't always know what our cats are up to! Sometimes they are born with these qualities, and other times it occurs because of things like abandonment, abuse, a change in their routine, or it just simply comes with age.

Nervous Tendencies

Whatever the reason, nobody likes to see their pet suffer needlessly; humans don't enjoy being fearful all the time, and neither does your kitty. Over time, excessive stress can cause additional health concerns like digestive problems, fur loss, and other chronic illnesses brought on by stress.

Whether fireworks are going on, house company just arrived, or your cat is overly nervous, there are ways you can help calm your nervous friend. Having the right tools in your kitty arsenal can make all the difference, and there may not be a silver bullet to your cats' problem. Keep in mind health and wellness requires a holistic approach and you may find yourself using multiple things to help your furry friend out.

Here is a list of calming items that may help your feline friend relax a little easier:

- Calming collars for cats, these usually contain herb blends and essential oils know to help create a calming effect

- Pet friendly melatonin, melatonin is a hormone that works with the brain to indicate time for sleep, it has also been used to create a calming effect before bed as well

- Hemp derived CBD calming chewables or tinctures may also help with easing your cat's nerves. But note not all hemp products are created equal, be sure to always check for THC-free pet friendly products, since THC can be toxic to pets and all pets respond differently it is recommended to avoid products with THC.

Feline Discomfort

The aging process is never fun, just as you may notice physiological changes through the aging process, so does your cat! As your cat ages, bone loss, degenerative diseases, and mobility issues can cause a great deal of discomfort. The usual aches and discomfort of getting older affect all species, and while there is no cure for the passage of time, hemp-derived CBD may help your cat deal better with the occasional joint stiffness and discomfort from the normal aging process, giving them some spunk back!

To the surprise and delight of many pet owners, CBD can help manage discomfort for their four-legged friends and may be something to consider adding to your cat's daily regimen. Some owners have state their cats seem to have a newfound pep in their step and improved quality of life as they age.

If you suspect your cat is experiencing discomfort or the occasional joint stiffness, trying CBD oil to might be right for their situation. Recognized as safe and effective, so far, the known side effects have been very few and CBD was cleared by the World Health Organization (WHO) as being safe for both humans and animals.

Kitty Dementia

Cats also suffer neural degeneration as they age. One of the most common signs of dementia in an older cat is howling or yowling for no reason, especially at night. If your cat is now excessively vocal, the cause may be because they feel distressed or disoriented by their increasing level of confusion. This is a cause for concern, and you should consider checking with your vet about potential treatments and what you can add to your cat's daily regimen to help them through the aging process.

Some studies have shown cannabinoids reportedly improve neuroplasticity and regenerate brain cells by activating the endocannabinoid system. There have been dozens of studies on CBD's neuroprotective properties for humans, and now there are studies investigate the potential for cats.

Importance of Veterinarian Care

While home care is a great addition to daily wellness it is never a substitute for in clinic vet care. Always be sure to keep up on regular vet visits, keep your vet in the loop with your cat's at home care regiment, and don't hesitate to seek your vet's assistance if your home regiment isn't enough for your feline friend.

How Does CBD Work for Cats?

Cats, like all mammals, naturally have an endocannabinoid system, also called the ECS. This extensive communication system of receptors and corresponding chemicals is present throughout the brain and body and even on the skin of your cat. While your cat naturally produces chemicals called endocannabinoids to turn on this system, deficiencies can occur.

The ECS regulates many essential functions in your cat's body and brain, including mood, memory, appetite, sleep, temperature, pain, inflammation, reproduction, and more. If this vital system is out of balance, supplementing with cannabinoids sourced from hemp — like CBD— may improve your cat's quality of life.

Important Differences Between Hemp & Marijuana

You may have heard that cannabis is not suitable for pets. This statement is partially true. Cannabis products containing THC can be dangerous, especially for felines.

If you have ever smoked marijuana and had an episode of paranoia or being too "high" you know first-hand how uncomfortable the feeling is. Imagine this sensation for your beloved pet, who has no idea why this is happening.

Many CBD products crafted for humans have trace amounts of THC in them. These minuscule amounts do not cause the user to become high and can even be helpful for humans. But cats, or any pet, should never ingest products containing any amount of THC, as THC is toxic for pets. While every pet is different and may experience a different reaction, it is recommended to avoid THC all together.

Cat Amount Sizes and Safety

Because cats cannot tell you if CBD is working for them, you will need to exhibit patience, go low and start slow! We suggest keeping a journal noting the date, time, and amount given each time, as well as your cat's physical and mental state throughout the day.

While there is currently no standard on amount sizes to give your pet, recent research with animals and CBD have shown a starting dose of 1 mg of CBD oil for every 10 pounds of your pet’s body weight given twice a day. If you do not notice any improvement in your cat after 14 days of daily use you may increase the amount, but do not exceed more than 1 mg per 1 lbs. of body weight.

You should always consult with a veterinarian experienced with CBD to establish a good baseline serving size and a schedule for your feline companion.

Side Effects of CBD

The known side effects of CBD are minimal and may include excessive sleepiness, gastrointestinal upset, and changes in appetite. Giving CBD on a full stomach may help reduce incidences of GI upsets.

Research demonstrates minimal side-effects like elevated levels of an enzyme called alkaline phosphatase found predominantly in the liver, bones, intestine, and kidneys of animals.

Compounds known as Terpenes, are found in many plants including hemp. While these can have many benefits, keep in mind that some animals metabolize them differently and do not process these compounds as readily, which can lead to elevated enzyme levels. Getting the correct type of hemp extract and having a trusted source may reduce occurrences like this.

To minimize adverse occurrences, it is especially important to source the appropriate type of CBD oil and hemp extract for your pet which can help in avoiding adverse reactions. While Terpenes such as Limonene and Linalool do have benefits, pets can have a hard time processing them and it may lead to elevated liver or kidney levels.

If your cat is currently on any prescription medications, you should first speak with a veterinarian experienced with CBD before use. In addition, if you notice any disturbances, consult with your veterinarian about discontinuing the use of CBD.

For cats, a little CBD goes a long way so remember start low and slowly increase the amount to reach the desired effects.