What are the benefits of CBD for cats?
Many people with cats are turning to CBD oil for natural relief from anxiety, seizures, and stress. Here are some of the most common benefits of CBD for cats:
Fostering peace in multi-cat households
When a new cat is brought home, friction with other cats in the household can be common. While we recommend a multi-step process for introducing a cat (read tips from our friends at PAWS here), CBD can certainly help with the initial transition. It’s best to offer CBD to both the resident cat and the new cat to keep them both in a calmer state until the relationship has turned into a mutually positive one. CBD works equally well when trying to get dogs and cats to peacefully coexist.
Reducing stress from trips to the vet or groomer or for traveling
Cats are particularly bonded to their environment, and most do not appreciate having their security upended with traveling. CBD can be used situationally, as needed, to reduce stress at these times.
CBD can gently calm your cat without sedation, making trips to the groomer or veterinarian be easier for both your cat and the professional. We recommend dosing your cat with CBD about a half hour before you intend to leave for your appointment.
If you are traveling by car or airplane with your cat, CBD can help them remain calmer and quieter without the use of prescription medications. If you’re planning a longer trip, it’s best to experiment at home beforehand to ensure you’re offering the ideal dose.
CBD for cats with anxiety and pain
Our mysterious feline friends can have anxiety that can be hard to understand or address. You can read more about that here.
It may also be difficult to assess and address your cat’s pain. If you have consulted your veterinarian to rule out concerning medical conditions and just want to ease your cat’s pain from old age, arthritis, or chronic conditions, CBD may offer relief.
All mammals have an endocannabinoid system, a network of numerous receptors that regulates body functions. Endocannabinoids are synthesized on demand by the body to maintain homeostasis – a stable internal environment. When injury or illness interferes with homeostasis, these internal mechanisms lag behind the body’s needs. Supplementing with the phytocannabinoids found abundantly in hemp can help restore balance and reduce pain.
CBD for cats with seizures
Observing your cat having a seizure can be a frightening experience. Seizures are basically caused by the abnormal firing of neurons in the brain. If your cat has seizures, you should visit your veterinarian to determine the cause and ask about offering CBD to reduce the severity and frequency of your cat’s seizures.
While there is not currently a large body of research about offering CBD to cats with seizures, the National Institute of Health has published CBD research demonstrating strong reductions in epileptic seizures in rodents and shows CBD to be an effective therapeutic anti-convulsant.
To support the health of a cat with seizures, relief will be typically best achieved by regularly dosing twice a day. Dosage amounts can vary quite a bit from one cat to the next, so it may be necessary to experiment to find the right amount and how often to give.
How do you choose the best CBD for cats?
There are two main considerations in choosing the best CBD for your cat. The first is finding a high-quality product, and the second is finding one that fits your cat’s particular needs.
For the former, you should make sure to find a product that clearly states the amount of CBD it contains. Make sure that it’s free of heavy metals and pesticides and that it’s been tested for potency. The manufacturer should have the lab test results readily available for review.
Secondly, the right product will depend heavily on your cat’s preferences. If you have a pickier cat, you can consider a flavorless isolate. Isolates are pure CBD in coconut oil that you can add to food or your cat’s favorite treat. The dropper makes it easy to measure out exactly the right dose. If your cat is not picky, a full-spectrum CBD oil that contains terpenes and other beneficial plant matter might be even more effective, though it should be noted that full-spectrum CBD does have a bit of a grassy taste. These CBD drops for cats are easy to add to food or treats as well.
Wisely solid Coconut Oil with CBD offers versatility in dosing. Because most cats like the coconut taste, it can be added to food or treats. If your cat doesn’t like it on food, you can dab the dose on the top of their paws. Most cats hate the untidy feeling and will lick it right off. It can also be rubbed on the bare skin inside the ears to be absorbed through the skin. Because it’s a high-potency product, your cat will need just a small amount, making this a cost-effective option.
My cat is on medication. Can I still give my cat CBD?
While contraindications are rare, you should be sure to check with your veterinarian before using CBD oil if you’re giving your cat prescription medications. Holistic and integrative vets usually know about the benefits of CBD and will be easily able to answer your questions.