CBD oil is becoming a popular treatment for humans with anxiety disorders, and there is some evidence that it might help cats, too. CBD oil is made from cannabis plants and contains high levels of cannabidiol (CBD), a compound that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and anti-anxiety effects. Some pet owners report that their cats feel less anxious after taking CBD oil, but more research is needed to confirm this. If you’re considering using CBD oil to treat your cat’s anxiety, talk to your veterinarian first. Let’s take a closer look!
What Is CBD?
CBD is a compound found in cannabis plants. It is one of more than 100 compounds known as cannabinoids. CBD oil is made by extracting CBD from the cannabis plant and then adding it to an oil, such as coconut oil. Unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), another cannabinoid found in cannabis, CBD does not have any psychoactive effects. This means that it will not make your cat high if they consume it.
How Does CBD Work?
The exact mechanisms by which CBD works are not fully understood, but it is thought to interact with receptors in the brain and body to produce its effects. These receptors are part of the endocannabinoid system, which helps to regulate various functions in the body, including mood, appetite, and pain.
Does CBD Help with Anxiety?
CBD oil has been shown to have anti-anxiety effects in humans. A small study found that CBD oil was effective in reducing anxiety in people with social anxiety disorder. Another study found that CBD oil reduced anxiety and improved sleep in people with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). There is also some evidence that CBD oil might help to reduce anxiety in cats. A study of 16 dogs found that CBD oil was effective in reducing anxiety and improving sleep quality. More research is needed, but most experts agree that CBD is safe enough to try on your pet at home with very little risk.
How to Give CBD Oil to Your Cat
If you’re considering using CBD oil to treat your cat’s anxiety, it’s important to talk to your veterinarian first. They can help you to determine the best dosage and delivery method for your cat. CBD oil is available in a variety of forms, including tinctures, capsules, and treats. It can be given orally or applied topically to your cat’s skin. The most important thing is to start with a low dose and increase gradually until you see the desired effect.
Does CBD Have Any Side Effects?
CBD is generally considered to be safe, but it can cause side effects in some people. These side effects include drowsiness, dry mouth, and diarrhea. CBD can also interact with other medications your cat is taking. Be sure to talk to your veterinarian before giving your cat CBD oil.
Is CBD Safe?
CBD is generally considered to be safe, but it’s important to talk to your veterinarian before giving it to your cat. CBD oil can interact with other medications your cat is taking and may cause side effects. Be sure to start with a low dose and increase gradually until you see the desired effect.
What Do I Look for in a CBD Oil?
When choosing a CBD oil for your cat, it’s important to look for a product that is made specifically for pets. You should also look for an oil that has been tested by a third-party lab to ensure quality and safety.
Cats and CBD FAQs
Can CBD oil help my cat with anxiety?
It is thought that CBD oil might help to reduce anxiety in cats, but more research is needed to confirm this. If you’re considering using CBD oil to treat your cat’s anxiety, talk to your veterinarian first.
Does CBD work the same as catnip?
CBD and catnip work in different ways. Catnip works by stimulating a cat’s sense of smell, while CBD is thought to interact with receptors in the brain and body to produce its effects.
Can I grow it in my garden?
CBD is not a plant that you can grow in your garden. CBD is derived from the hemp plant, which is a type of cannabis plant. To get CBD, the hemp plants must be processed in a lab.
What are terpenes?
Terpenes are a type of compound found in plants. They are responsible for the characteristic smell of many plants, including cannabis. Terpenes might also have some health benefits.
Are there terpenes in CBD oil?
CBD oil typically contains terpenes, but the amount can vary depending on the product. Some CBD oils are made with essential oils that contain terpenes.
What is full-spectrum CBD oil?
Full-spectrum CBD oil contains all of the compounds found in the hemp plant, including THC. Broad-spectrum CBD oil contains most of the compounds found in the hemp plant, but it has all of the THC removed.
What is CBD isolate?
CBD isolate is a type of CBD that has been isolated from all other compounds in the hemp plant. It is pure CBD and does not contain any other cannabinoids, terpenes, or other compounds.
How much CBD oil should I give my cat?
The amount of CBD oil you give your cat will depend on a variety of factors, including their weight and the severity of their anxiety. It’s important to start with a low dose and increase gradually until you see the desired effect. Talk to your veterinarian for more information.
Is there a difference between human and pet CBD oil?
Pet CBD oil is formulated to be safe for animals. It might contain different ingredients than human CBD oil, and the dosage will be different. Always follow the dosage instructions on the product label.
What are some of the most common uses for pet CBD oil?
Pet CBD oil is commonly used to treat anxiety, pain, and seizures in animals. It is also sometimes used to help with gastrointestinal issues.
Do I need a prescription for pet CBD oil?
No, you do not need a prescription for pet CBD oil. However, it’s always best to talk to your veterinarian before giving your animal any type of supplement.
Can I give my cat CBD oil if they’re on medication?
You should always talk to your veterinarian before giving your cat any type of supplement, including CBD oil. CBD oil can interact with other medications your cat is taking and may cause side effects.
Is pet CBD oil legal?
CBD derived from the hemp plant is legal in most countries. However, the laws surrounding CBD are constantly changing, so it’s important to check your local laws before giving your pet CBD oil.
What are some common signs of anxiety in cats?
Common signs of anxiety in cats include hiding, increased vocalization, aggression, urinating outside of the litter box, and decreased appetite. If you notice any of these changes in your cat’s behavior, talk to your veterinarian.
What can I do to help my cat with anxiety?
There are a few things you can do to help your cat with anxiety. You can try giving them a pheromone diffuser, which releases calming chemicals into the air. You can also give them a calming supplement, such as CBD oil. Finally, make sure to provide them with a safe, quiet place to hide if they need it.
What shouldn’t I do if my cat is anxious?
There are a few things you should avoid doing if your cat is anxious. First, don’t punish them for exhibiting signs of anxiety. This will only make the problem worse. Second, don’t try to force them to interact with you if they’re not ready. Let them approach you on their own terms. Finally, avoid using products that contain synthetic pheromones, as these can actually make anxiety worse.
Conclusion
CBD oil is a promising treatment for anxiety in both humans and animals, but more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness. If you’re considering using CBD oil to treat your cat’s anxiety, talk to your veterinarian first. They can help you determine the best dosage and delivery method for your cat.
Featured Image Credit: Lightcube, Shutterstock
