The benefits of CBD oil go beyond just for humans. In fact, CBD oil for cats is a popular holistic option.
CBD oil has developed a reputation for being a natural healer for a range of ailments that affect humans. But did you know that CBD oil could also be a holistic option for kitties who are ill?
CBD (cannabidiol) is found in the cannabis plant, along with THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). While THC is capable of making you feel high, CBD is the opposite and won’t cause a high. Both CBD and THC are medicinal.
Related:Canine Cannabis: Medical Marijuana for Dogs
In the United States, any CBD oil products that contain less than 0.3% THC are considered legal in every state. Laws differ, however, depending upon where you live, so your vet may have access to different products.
The benefits of CBD oil have been studied in dogs, and researchers are conducting similar trials with felines. As more studies are completed, experts will continue to gain additional insight into how CBD oil could be used to treat a variety of conditions.
Related:Pet Owners Turn To Medical Marijuana To Treat Their Pets
In the meantime, some veterinarians are already prescribing CBD oil to help reduce inflammation and pain, as well as control symptoms that are associated with conditions that include pancreatitis, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD), feline idiopathic cystitis (FIC), asthma, chronic upper respiratory infections, seizures, and arthritis.
CBD oil may also benefit kitties who are suffering with the effects of chemotherapy while undergoing treatment for cancer. In addition to potentially helping animals fight cancer, CBD oil might help stimulate the appetite while decreasing nausea.
Because CBD oil could support the immune system, it may even help with immune-mediated diseases and food allergies as well. Plus, cats showing behavioral issues, such as anxiety, might also show improvement with the help of CBD oil. And even geriatric kitties that have dementia may exhibit signs of improvement, as CBD oil could benefit the health of the brain.
As with any other medical treatment option, one of the most important questions you can ask your veterinarian is whether or not CBD oil could cause side effects. The good news, though, is that CBD oil is considered generally safe for felines.
Some kitties may be more sensitive to CBD oil’s effects than others, but pet parents might notice that their cats are less anxious and more relaxed, and their kitties might even want to eat more. Excessive sedation, however, might indicate that you need to stop giving your cat CBD oil, so talk to your veterinarian. Beyond that, an allergic reaction might occur, particularly in kitties who are allergic to grass. Also, CBD oil might cause gastrointestinal upset.
The best way to avoid potential side effects is by working closely with your veterinarian to give your cat the appropriate dose. If side effects do occur, let your vet know. You might be told to stop use of the CBD oil in order to stop the side effects.
It’s also best to purchase CBD oil from your vet, if possible, or follow your vet’s recommendations regarding which particular product to purchase. There are a lot of CBD oils on the market, especially online, and they’re not all created equal.
If CBD oil sounds like something that your cat might benefit from, consult with your veterinarian (you might even choose to speak with a holistic veterinarian). After all, your vet knows your pet best, and he or she could help you determine if CBD oil would be the right choice.
