As many pet-owners face the challenge of increasing vet costs, the demand for natural remedies and alternative medicine is skyrocketing. People are beginning to turn to CBD to seek help for their discomforted animals, and some are finding solutions. Let’s delve into what to know before you give your pet CBD.
What Is CBD?
Let’s first discuss what CBD is and how it works. CBD is a chemical compound that interacts with the endocannabinoid system in both animals and humans. It’s non-psychoactive, which means it cannot deliver the “high” effect that THC is responsible for. The cannabis plant undergoes a rigorous and extensive extraction process, during which these compounds separate, to produce the final product: CBD. Many people turn to CBD products to aid their pain, inflammation, chronic illnesses, and mood disorders.
Benefits for Animals
So how does CBD benefit your pet? CBD has several health benefits for pets due to the uniquely designed endocannabinoid system. The endocannabinoid system houses cannabinoids receptors, which bind with the CBD to produce balance within the body (also known as homeostasis). Any mammal with vertebrae has a endocannabinoid system and may therefore benefit from regular, proper use of CBD. Therefore, as in humans, CBD usage in pets can range from reducing nausea, improving coat texture and joint health, and soothing arthritis.
Tips for Administering CBD Products to Pets
Never Use Hemp Oil
You’ll find one critical thing to know before you give your pet CBD right on the label. The label will identify all the product’s ingredients and the proper dosage guidelines. If the label lists hemp oil, avoid administering this to your pet. Hemp oil does not contain any CBD properties, and it adds almost no value to the product. However, hemp seed oil is acceptable with a CBD additive.
Verify the Dosage
Always verify a CBD product’s COA (certificate of analysis) before giving the product to your pet; this will help you understand dosage rates and proper use. More than likely, you’re in communication with your vet about the reasons for wanting to give your pet CBD; they should also be aware of the proper usage and dosing.
Most times, the animal’s weight determines the correct dosage. But the COA combined with your vet’s expertise should help you get the dosage exactly right.
Choose a Broad-Spectrum CBD
The best CBD products for animals are broad-spectrum CBD and CBD isolates. Broad-spectrum products contain not only the CBD you desire but also other natural components such as terpenes. These elements are responsible for delivering some of the effects of the product to your pet, including muscle relaxation, anti-inflammation properties, and mood enhancement. Terpenes occur naturally in plants and some spices, and they’re safe for pets. To learn more about the effects of terpenes, here’s a list of the five most common ones.
Be sure to consult your vet for any severe or life-threatening symptoms your pet may be experiencing. But for common ailments such as arthritic joints and mood fluctuations, it’s safe to seek an alternative route to provide comfort to your four-legged friend.
