It’s no secret that Pet’s CBD is becoming increasingly popular. Pet owners are utilizing CBD to treat anxiety in their pets or as a pain relief for specific conditions, and CBD and hemp products have begun to appear in pet retailers. But, before you go on the CBD bandwagon, keep in mind that all of this does not always imply that CBD is safe for pets.
CBD has been federally legal in both the United States and Canada since 2018, but you should still check your local laws for any restrictions. Even more importantly, before administering any new therapy to your pet, including CBD Pet Tinctures, sprays, or treats, always consult with your veterinarian.
Nonetheless, current views on CBD Pet Tinctures differ greatly. To make the best decision for your pet, you must first understand what CBD pet products are and what scientific research has revealed.
What Exactly Is CBD?
CBD, also known as cannabidiol, is one of more than 100 chemical compounds known as “cannabinoids” discovered in the cannabis plant. While CBD is widely regarded as non-psychoactive (that is, it will not make you “high”), it has been shown to have various physiological effects in humans. CBD supporters claim it can assist with everything from sleep and anxiety disorders to more complex health ailments including diabetes, epilepsy, and multiple sclerosis. It is also thought to help with nausea and pain alleviation.
Pet CBD Tinctures are lawful in both the United States and Canada as long as they contain less than 0.3% THC. Other local restrictions may apply. However, veterinarians are not legally permitted to prescribe CBD and other laws govern its usage in animals.
Understanding The Difference Between CBD And THC
You’ve definitely heard of THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, as the principal psychoactive chemical found in cannabis plants. THC and CBD are the two most common cannabinoids, and they even have a molecular structure. However, it is critical to recognize that the cannabis plant comes in two varieties: hemp and marijuana. Both plants contain CBD, however, marijuana contains a lot of THC whereas hemp has little to none.
Can CBD Be Safely Given To Pets?
Pet owners should be aware that, while CBD is widely regarded as harmless, the truth is more ambiguous. Other herbal supplements, are mainly unregulated and have not been approved as medical therapies.
Furthermore, anyone thinking about administering CBD Pet Tinctures should be aware that THC is hazardous to pets. As a result, all CBD Pet Tinctures and supplements should include as little THC as possible (ideally 0%), however due to a lack of regulation, it is difficult to determine the real quantity of THC or CBD in any individual product.
Scientific Research On CBD Pet Tinctures
CBD Pet Tinctures have been demonstrated in numerous studies to lessen nervous behaviors in rodents and humans, but what about Pets? Though anxiety is the most prevalent cause for providing CBD Pet Tinctures, this is primarily based on anecdotal data.
According to a study published in September 2020, CBD may have minimal effect on lowering a dog’s nervous behavior. The controlled study, carried out by experts from the University of Kentucky and the College of Veterinary Medicine at Lincoln Memorial University, observed a group of dogs (of various breeds) and their reactions to firework noises before and after taking CBD. While the CBD-treated group had much lower stress hormone levels than the control group, there was minimal behavioral effect when the firework noises were introduced.
Pets owners should be aware that their pets may react differently to CBD. Another veterinary study, released in October 2019, found that dogs absorb and metabolize CBD more quickly than cats. While there were few behavioral changes seen and the CBD-laced snacks were judged to be quite safe for both groups, some of the cats participating experienced unpleasant effects such as vomiting and head shaking. Few more studies on the efficacy or impact of CBD use in dogs had been conducted as of January 2022. More research is needed to identify definitively how CBD affects both Pets, particularly when used long-term.
How To Be Safe When Using CBD Pet Tinctures?
The decision to administer CBD to your pet is ultimately up to you and your veterinarian. While doctors cannot prescribe CBD, it’s a good idea to discuss any CBD Pet Tinctures you’re interested in with your pet’s veterinarian to confirm the contents are safe.
Keep in mind that perspectives on CBD vary significantly, even within the veterinary care field. As a precaution, you should seek a second opinion. And, as a reminder, always check with your local authorities before administering any CBD Pet Tinctures, or CBD treats. As an added precaution, make a note of the location of the nearest emergency animal hospitals.
If you do decide to give CBD to your pet (with prior veterinary approval, of course), always start with the lowest advised dosage and monitor your pet’s reaction for the next several hours. Never offer CBD to animals that are designed for human use, and keep all THC-containing items away from your pet.
Conclusion
Many pet owners administer CBD Pet Tinctures in the belief that it would help relieve anxiety in Pets. While pet CBD may aid by reducing stress hormones, current research has not established that it will truly help your pet feel calm or lessen nervous behavior. It’s also crucial to understand that determining the true quantity of THC or CBD in any oral supplement, oil, or other CBD pet product can be difficult, if not impossible.
