CBD for pets: everything you need to know

CBD is a very popular supplement for human well-being, although we are not the only ones who can benefit from its balanced effect. Read on to find out how it affects cats and dogs, and how to find the best product for your beloved companion.

What is CBD for pets?

The name says it all, but if you’re new to the world of CBD, you may be surprised to learn that CBD for pets also exists. In a nutshell, CBD for Pets is a range of pet products with a specially formulated CBD extract. This selection is growing, but the most popular items are CBD oil, CBD pills and CBD snacks.

Although CBD products for pets also contain CBD as the main ingredient, they are formulated slightly differently than CBD products for humans. We’ll look at these differences in more detail shortly, but it’s important to note that unless a CBD product says it’s for pets only, it’s not suitable for your dog or cat.

How does CBD for pets work?

To understand how CBD works in pets, it is critical to know how cannabinoids (the group of molecules to which CBD belongs) interact with their overall biological systems. Fortunately, there are several similarities between our physiology and that of our furry friends.

Your pet also has an endocannabinoid system (ECS), a vast network of receptors that control well-being. When consumed in oil or snack form, CBD is processed in your pet’s digestive system and liver, before being distributed throughout the body.

The ECS reacts to the presence of CBD and other cannabinoids, triggering a wide variety of possible outcomes, just as it does in humans. Researchers are still analyzing the extent of the ECS in cats and dogs.^[1]but so far, they have discovered the following:

• Cats and dogs have CB1 and CB2 receptors.
• CB1 receptors are found in salivary glands, hair follicles, skin, and parts of the brain.
• Most CB2 receptors are on your pet’s skin.
• Some CB receptors appear to have a function similar to those in humans and rodents.

Are the effects of CBD the same for humans and pets?

The last point of the previous section is very important. Some CB receptors in pets have a similar function to those in our bodies. This means that there are likely similarities between how we feel when we take CBD, and the effect experienced by our canine and feline companions.

Researchers believe that stimulating the ECS in dogs could suppress pro-inflammatory cells while promoting overall skin and joint health^[2]. There is also evidence indicating a relationship between CBD intake and neurological conditions^[3].

These studies have obtained similar results in cats. Joint and skin health seem to be affected by CBD, as well as certain oral conditions^[4]. Interestingly, research on CB1 receptors shows that CBD could affect muscle function; a different result from previous studies with dogs.

Terpenes and pets

We have already mentioned that CBD products for pets are different from those intended for humans. Although the extract is still packed with gold-grade CBD and quality cannabinoids, the main difference is the absence of terpenes.

Although terpenes play a key role in the entourage effect (a phenomenon that enhances the efficacy of full-spectrum CBD extracts), they could be too strong for animals. With senses 10,000 times more acute than ours, what to us is a mild taste or smell is sensory overload to our pets.

Animals might find the taste and smell of these substances unpleasant, so to provide them with a seamless experience, we have removed terpenes from all Cibdol CBD products for pets.

How do I administer CBD to my pet?

With the basics of CBD for pets covered, let’s move on to the most critical part: adding CBD to your daily routine. We know that each pet is different, and that is why we offer several forms of administration. From CBD oil to CBD snacks, you’re sure to find an option they’ll love, regardless of your pet’s age and tolerance.

CBD Oil for Pets

Just like humans, cats and dogs like the most popular CBD formula: CBD oil.

CBD oil for pets is usually administered with food or mixed with water. There is no reason not to administer the drops directly to them, but we know that this is often easier said than done.

CBD oil for pets has two strengths. Both are much gentler than the human alternatives, but don’t worry, they’re just as effective. Don’t forget that our canine and feline companions are much smaller than we are, and weight greatly influences the effect of CBD.

What is the ideal dose of CBD oil for my pet?

The most appropriate dosage will depend on your pet’s age, susceptibility, and welfare needs. But, given the lack of toxicity of CBD for pets, it is best to start with a low dose and increase it until the desired effect is achieved. Start with a few drops or a single snack with each meal. Keep the same dose for about two weeks, before increasing it as needed.

Pills and snacks with CBD for pets

CBD snacks and lozenges provide a standard dose of CBD that, depending on the pet, may be easier to administer than CBD oil. All snacks contain the same specially formulated CBD extract, but with additional ingredients (for flavor). Dog owners often add CBD tablets to their pets’ meals, but they can also be taken on their own.

CBD and pets: is it safe?

Animal safety is at the top of any pet owner’s priority list, and the evidence appears to be positive when it comes to the effect of CBD on cats and dogs. However, we must remember that just like humans, every pet is different. Even pets of the same breed and age may have slightly different endocannabinoid systems.

The way in which your cat or dog reacts to CBD will be unique, so it is essential to start small. Studies on the interaction of CBD with animals are still in the early stages, and much more testing is needed to confirm what we have learned so far. In the meantime, choose CBD products for pets from reputable companies like Cibdol and avoid the risks associated with poor quality CBD. Like our traditional ranges, all of our CBD pet products are independently tested to ensure they deliver the best possible quality.

To see our full range of CBD products for cats and dogs, check out the Cibdol store. Or if you have more questions about CBD, terpenes and independent analysis, find the answers in our comprehensive CBD Encyclopedia.