Pets are family. We love to see them happy and healthy, enjoying their favorite activities and feeling their best. But just like us, pets can experience anxiety, pain, and various health issues that affect their quality of life. As a pet owner, watching your beloved pet struggle and not knowing how to help can be challenging.

In recent years, CBD, short for cannabidiol, has gained a lot of attention within humans. Folks use CBD to help with anxiety, pain relief, sleep issues, and more. Unlike THC, CBD doesn’t make you feel high. It’s often used for various health benefits. Given its popularity and success in human health, many pet owners are curious if it can help their furry friends, too.

If you’re starting with CBD for your pet, one of the first things you’ll learn is that the amount you give matters a lot. Giving your pet excessive CBD can lead to side effects from minor to more severe. It’s important to understand how much is too much and how to provide them with the right amount.

In this guide, we will dig into how CBD might help your pet. We’ll cover;

• How Does CBD Work?
• Is CBD Safe for Dogs/Cats?
• What Pet Health Problems Can CBD Solve?
• What forms of CBD are available for Pets?
• What CBD dosage should be given for Pets?
• How to Know a CBD Product is Right for Your Pet?

And much more.

By the end of this guide, you’ll understand whether CBD might be a good option for your pet and how to use it responsibly.

How Does CBD Work?

Plants produce many chemicals called phytochemicals, which often have positive medical benefits. Cannabis sativa, aka marijuana, produces over 500 phytochemicals. The most well-known of these is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).

THC is a psychoactive substance, meaning it affects the mind. This is one reason why marijuana is used recreationally by humans and is categorized as a Schedule I controlled substance in the US and many other countries.

Cannabidiol (CBD) is another important cannabinoid produced by the Cannabis sativa plant. Unlike THC, CBD is not psychoactive.

The body has an endocannabinoid system, which helps maintain health by regulating various physiological processes. This system includes receptors on different cells, particularly in the nervous system. Phytocannabinoids, like those found in cannabis, can interact with these receptors similarly to the body’s naturally produced endocannabinoids.

A common endocannabinoid, anandamide (AEA), helps relieve stress and is sometimes called the bliss endocannabinoid. THC interacts with cannabinoid receptors in a similar way to AEA, causing psychoactive effects. CBD also interacts with the endocannabinoid system but at different sites, which is why it does not produce a high.

What Pet Health Problems Can CBD Treat?

While CBD products that do not contain THC appear safe for dogs, it is important to choose products designed specifically for pets and verify their quality through a Certificate of Analysis. CBD is believed to help pets with several health problems. Here are some of the main issues it can address;

Pain and Inflammation

CBD may help control pain, especially chronic pain, by enhancing the effects of other pain-relieving drugs. Studies have shown that CBD can manage osteoarthritis pain in dogs when used alongside nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Epilepsy

CBD may also help reduce the frequency of seizures in dogs with epilepsy that do not respond well to traditional anti-seizure medications.

Anxiety

Pets can experience anxiety, leading to excessive barking, destructive chewing, and indoor peeing. CBD is believed to help ease nervousness and promote calmness by activating areas of the brain similar to serotonin, a mood-regulating hormone.

CBD is being analyzed for its potential to treat itchy skin (pruritus) and other nervous system disorders in pets. Research is also underway to explore its effects on cancer. CBD’s potential to treat these conditions makes it a valuable addition to pet care. However, always consult  veterinarians before starting any new treatment.

What Forms of CBD are Available for Pets?

CBD comes in many forms, including oils, treats, capsules, and topicals. The way CBD is delivered to your pet can affect absorption. Different oils or carriers can change how your pet’s body absorbs it. Choose a form that suits your pet’s presence and needs;

• Oils and Tinctures: Versatile and easy to mix with food or give directly.
• Treats: Convenient and enjoyable for pets who like snacks.
• Capsules: Good for pets who are comfortable taking pills.
• Topicals: Ideal for localized issues like skin irritations or joint pain.

CBD could be a valuable addition to your pet’s pet’s routine. With proper research, guidance from your vet, and careful product selection, you can help your pet enjoy a happier, healthier life.

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What CBD Dosage Should be Given to Pets?

Determining the correct dosage depends on your pet’s size, the treated condition, and the CBD product used.

CBD pet products usually guide how many milligrams of CBD to give based on your pet’s weight. Start with a low dose and gradually increase until you see the desired effects. It’s easier to increase the dose if needed than to deal with the consequences of giving too much.

Once you start seeing the benefits of CBD, like reduced anxiety or improved mobility, stick with the current dose. There’s no need to increase the amount if your pet is already doing well. Pets don’t build up a tolerance to CBD, so the initial effective dose should remain adequate.

CBD needs time to build up in your pet’s system. Stick with the same dose for at least 30 days before changing.

You can split your pet’s daily CBD amount between different products, like treats and oils. Just ensure the total daily milligrams remain consistent. For example, if your pet needs 5 mg daily, you could give 2.5 mg of CBD oil for dogs in the morning and a 2.5 mg CBD treats in the evening.

Every pet is unique. What works for one pet may not work for another, even if they are the same size. Base your decisions on your pet’s behavior and response to CBD, not on what others report.

To ensure your pet has a safe and beneficial CBD routine, knowing how much is too much is crucial.

Here are some tips for identifying the right amount;

• Begin with the smallest recommended dose for your pet’s weight.
• Once you notice the benefits, don’t increase the dose further.
• If using different CBD products, ensure the total daily amount remains appropriate.

Remember that every pet is different, so what works for one might not work for another.

Possible Side Effects of CBD in Pets

Giving your pet too much CBD can lead to side effects such as;

• Reduced saliva production can cause bad breath and dental issues.
• Excessive relaxation might make your pet overly sleepy.
• This can cause dizziness and is not healthy for your pet.
• Vomiting, diarrhea, or other digestive problems might occur.

CBD pet products should be hemp-derived and free of THC. THC can cause more severe effects in pets. Stop giving CBD and consult your vet if you detect any unusual behavior or side effects.

How to Know a CBD Product is Right for Your Pet?

Selecting the right product for your pet can feel overwhelming with many options. Here are some key factors to consider to ensure you choose the best product for your furry friend;

Consult your vet before making your pet start CBD. Your vet can advise based on your pet’s health condition and current medications. They can also recommend particular products or brands that are safe and effective.

Choose products specifically formulated for pets. Human CBD products may contain ingredients that are unsafe for animals, such as certain flavorings or additives. Pet-specific CBD products are designed with their safety and well-being in mind.

Ensure the product provides clear dosage instructions based on your pet’s weight.

Research the brand’s reputation by reading reviews and testimonials from other pet owners. A well-known and trusted brand will likely provide high-quality, effective products.

Some of the CBD Products in the Market!

With the growing popularity of CBD for dogs/cats, there are numerous products available that cater to different needs and preferences. You can find CBD in various forms, making it easier to administer to your furry friend. For those looking for high-quality options, Elyxr provides top-class, pet-safe CBD products that are both effective and reliable.

It’s important to remember that every pet is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Consulting with your veterinarian can help you determine the best type and dosage of CBD for your pet’s specific needs. By doing so, you can ensure that your pet receives the maximum benefits from their CBD regimen. The right CBD product can make a significant difference in your pet’s overall well-being.

For more details, visit the Elyxr for Pets collection.