It's not just humans consuming CBD anymore. The market for CBD oil for pets is expected to reach $1.1 billion by 2025.
So, if you are wondering how to naturally treat your pet's ailment you are not alone. But, just how do you know when and how to give this medicine to your furry friend? And what should you expect from this type of treatment?
Read on to find out the benefits and instructions for a successful CBD regimen for your pet.
Is CBD Different for Pets?
The first thing you should understand about CBD oil is that products are slightly different for humans and animals. The main difference is the dosage amount and the application.
Other than that, CBD will contain the same type of ingredients. For example, it will have CBD (cannabidiol), one of over 100 various cannabinoids found in the Cannabis Sativa plant. This particular substance is used for medicinal purposes as it interacts with your endocannabinoid system automatically to induce hormonal release.
Another cannabinoid commonly known as THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) may be traced in CBD products. However, in order to be legally called hemp rather than marijuana, THC levels must remain under .3%.
This is extremely important for pet products since THC is psychoactive and at high dosages could be dangerous for animals. Therefore, finding a CBD isolate product for your pet would ensure that it only contains hemp.
Why Use CBD for Pets?
Hemp derivatives like CBD are great for pets because they act as mild pain relievers and anxiety reducers. It does this by binding to the receptors in the endocannabinoid system. This brings balance to the body by regulating naturally occurring chemicals.
Therefore, CBD is considered a natural remedy rather than an invasive medicine. People prefer this type of treatment for their pets since it has fewer side effects when given properly.
When to Use CBD?
Trying to figure out what is wrong with your pet sometimes seems like a guessing game. Are they depressed, hungry, anxious, or really in pain?
Here are some signs that your pet may be suffering and can benefit from a CBD regimen:
Diagnosed with arthritis and has trouble moving or walking
Has separation issues
Gets nervous around other animals and/or people
Has nervous habits like licking or chewing his/her body
Rejects food
Shakes or has twitches
Has accidents inside even though they are housebroken
Pacing or barking without reason
Shows abnormal aggression
Pets with terminal or severe illnesses like cancer or seizures can also enjoy CBD oil benefits as it will act as a pain reliever and reduce symptoms of diseases and neurological disorders.
How to Give Pets CBD?
The most difficult part about giving your pet CBD is getting them to take it. That is why many companies are catering to animals in the form of treats and simple tinctures.
Tinctures are more popular since the dosage can be controlled according to your pet's size. You can drop these products on your pet's tongue or even add them to your pet's food and/or water.
Recommended Dosage
Start small with your CBD oil dosage for pets. The recommended amount to begin treatment is 2mg/kg.
Begin this dosage twice a day and record any changes in your pet's behavior. You can slowly increase the dosage after a week if you feel the effects are minimal or non-existent.
Be sure to also look for any side effects like vomiting, diarrhea, loss of coordination, or heavy panting. CBD shouldn't act as a sedative. So, lethargy is also a cause for concern.
If you feel that your pet is suffering from a side effect then stop the treatment and check with your veterinarian. Your pet should be calm but still active with a CBD treatment.
Is CBD Safe for Your Pet?
While there are side effects, they are often rare and due to poor quality products or the wrong dosage was given. Also, CBD is not regulated by the FDA rather self-regulated through independent lab tests.
Ensure your pet is safe by buying the right products and administering them appropriately. Do this by checking the ingredients on the product and looking at lab test results.