The CBD market continues to explode as increasing research shows its benefits from improved sleep to alleviating anxiety symptoms. Pet owners are also starting to use the compound in different kinds of oils, treats, and creams on their furry friends.
As a result, the pet CBD market is flourishing despite being relatively new. A report by Bloomberg shows that the current market value is a whopping $400 million and will reach the coveted billion-dollar mark this year. It doesn’t come as a surprise that numerous brands are responding by dabbling in different products and innovating new flavors to keep up with the fervent demand.
What Are The Benefits Of Using CBD For Your Pets?
Is it worth the hype? Several pet owners can pledge for the benefits of CBD for their dogs and cats based on their experiences. Much like humans, animals experience fear, anxiety, and other health conditions. Let’s take a look at how CBD helps relieve some.
1. CBD as Pain Relief
Studies show that CBD can be effective in alleviating all kinds of joint and nerve-related pain that result from inflammation or arthritis. It also has anticonvulsant properties that help controls its seizures, spasms, tics, and tremors.
2. CBD Mitigates Nausea and Stimulates Appetite
Noticed your pet isn’t eating as much they used to? Or perhaps they’re excessively vomiting. Regular doses of CBD, as agreed upon with the help of a vet, can help your pet feel better and lead a more comfortable life.
3. CBD Has Potential To Fight Cancer
Some preliminary studies show that CBD can either stop or drastically reduce the growth of cancerous cells and tumors. It can also help relieve other symptoms commonly experienced with cancer treatments, such as nausea and loss of appetite.
4. CBD Calms The Pets
Sometimes pets, mostly dogs, exhibit restless behavior, which causes mild destruction around the house.
This might be a result of separation anxiety or can also be general anxiety triggered by loud noises, thunder, fireworks, people, etc.
You may have noticed this behavior and are able to identify the trigger for your pet; CBD can help keep them calm and relax their nervous system.
However, there is still a considerable amount of mystery around the usage of cannabis for animals, given that it’s still illegal. An AVMA Council on Biologic and Therapeutic Agents document outlined the best practices for veterinarians is to use CBD to offer relief to pets, including dogs.
Dog owners that do want to experiment with using CBD as a treatment method should do so keeping the following things in mind:
Dosage
It’s important to keep in mind that each dog is different and will react differently to each ailment and treatment. CBD will not impact every dog in a similar way. Since we’re unaware of what the baseline reaction will be like, experts suggest starting with the smallest possible dose for your dog.
However, keep in mind that this will also vary depending on the size, age, breed and medical history of your dog. According to experienced vets, the smallest fraction of the dose is around 0.05 mg/kg/day, and the highest is 1 mg/kg/day. You can gradually increase the dosage with time after monitoring their reaction.
Tolerance Level
Each dog will have a unique tolerance level just like humans. You are advised to wait from 5 minutes to at least four days after the initial dose to check for any reactions. After waiting the recommended time, and if there are no side effects, you may continue to gradually increase the dosage after consulting your vet.
Stay Away From THC
Make sure you research the product carefully to ensure it doesn’t contain THC. This can be harmful to your pet because THC does not impact pets the same way as it impacts you. Dogs are a lot more sensitive to THC because they possess a larger number of cannabinoid receptors.
Avoid Mixing With Other Medications
If your pet is taking any other medication, make sure you talk to your vet before giving them CBD as well. Cannabinoids are processed in the liver, as are other medications, and you don’t want to mix the two because they may not react well. On the other hand, research shows that CBD can improve the effect of some medications, such as anti-seizure medicine.
Follow Proper Storage Procedure
CBD can degrade fairly quickly if you don’t store it properly. Keep CBD products such as oils and treats in cool and dry places and away from sunlight or bright places. Extreme temperatures and exposure to any kind of heat can alter the composition of the product and impact your pet as well.
Use High-Quality Products
It goes without saying, but no pet owner wants to compromise on the quality of care they extend to their pets. Research your CBD products thoroughly and opt for companies that are transparent about their practices. Only purchase products from companies that test them independently to check for unknown contaminants.
About The Author
The author, John Fern, is a leading expert on CBD products. He has also worked with Fur Babies Health to create natural and organic CBD products for pet’s health that are verified for potency through 3rd party lab testing.
DISCLAIMER:
The statements made regarding CBD or CBD-based products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The efficacy of CBD products for pets has not been conclusively confirmed by FDA-approved research. The products are not intended to prevent, diagnose, cure, or treat any disease. All information presented in this blog may contain errors or omissions and is not meant as a substitute for or alternative to information from authorized healthcare practitioners. The author of the blog cannot be held responsible and/or liable for any errors or omissions. Please consult your healthcare professional about potential interactions or other possible complications before using any CBD product for your pet. The Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act require this notice.
Daniel Alexander is a blogger that has a passion for writing. He publishes content on various topics ranging from tips for event planning and interior designing to technological advancements and financial tips.