Why is CBD oil good for pets?

Cannabidiol (CBD) is becoming increasingly popular as a natural supplement for humans and is also being used in the animal kingdom. But why and how can CBD be beneficial for pets? In this blog post, we will review why CBD can be beneficial for animals, how it works, and the latest research that confirms its effectiveness and safety.

What is CBD?

CBD is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid derived from the hemp plant. CBD does not cause a "high" effect, unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which is psychoactive. Therefore, CBD can be safely used in animals without causing any adverse effects.

CBD is available in various forms, such as oil, tablets, treats, or even topical creams. For animals, oil or refined CBD supplements are generally the most popular.

How does CBD work in animals?

CBD interacts with cannabinoid receptors in the body, which are found in the central nervous system and immune system. These receptors are part of the endocannabinoid system, which helps maintain balance in the body and affects functions such as pain perception, appetite, mood, and sleep.

Through this system, CBD can relieve inflammation, reduce anxiety and pain, and promote more restful sleep, which can be especially beneficial for animals that are stressed, anxious, or suffering from chronic pain.

Why can we give CBD to our dog?

1. Pain relief and inflammation reduction: Animals such as dogs can suffer from joint pain or inflammatory diseases. CBD is beneficial for joints as it helps reduce inflammation and relieve pain. Research shows that CBD can reduce pain and inflammation, especially in dogs suffering from osteoarthritis (wear and tear of cartilage).
2. Anxiety Relief: Anxiety is a common problem among pets, especially dogs. CBD can help treat anxiety because it has a calming effect on the central nervous system. It can help reduce anxiety related to storms, fireworks, or travel.
3. Anti-cancer effects: CBD is also being researched for its anti-cancer properties. Some research suggests that CBD may inhibit the growth of cancer cells and support the immune system in fighting the disease. Although research in animals is limited, some veterinarians use CBD in the treatment of their cancer patients.
4. Epilepsy treatment: CBD is increasingly seen as a promising treatment option for epileptic seizures. Some research suggests that CBD may reduce the frequency and intensity of seizures in animals, especially dogs.

What does the research say?

Research on CBD is increasingly providing data in animal studies. One of the most important studies conducted on dogs was a 2018 study conducted by researchers at Colorado State University. The aim of the research was to determine whether CBD oil could reduce epileptic seizures, pain caused by cartilage wear, and improve mobility in the animals.

The results showed that CBD oil had a significant analgesic effect and improved the activity of the animals. In the case of dogs participating in the study, the animals' activity increased by 30% with the use of CBD, while signs of pain decreased by 20%.

The research also confirmed that CBD can help treat epileptic seizures in dogs, as it reduced the frequency of seizures when used at the appropriate dosage.

What are the possible side effects?

Although CBD appears to be relatively safe, some side effects may occur, such as dry mouth, drowsiness, or mild diarrhea. However, these effects are rare and usually mild.

It is important to consult your veterinarian before giving CBD to your pet, especially if they are taking other medications. Your veterinarian can help determine the appropriate dosage and consider potential interactions.

How to choose a CBD product for dogs?

When looking for CBD for your pet, it’s a good idea to choose a product that’s specifically formulated for animals. It’s best to look for pure, organic CBD oil that’s free of THC and artificial additives. Also, make sure the product has undergone third-party testing to ensure its purity and effectiveness. The products available in our webshop are all international brands that have been independently tested in laboratories and are registered veterinary medicinal products with a NÉBIH ÁTI number.

Summary

CBD is increasingly being recognized as a therapeutic option for animals, especially for pain relief, anxiety management, and epilepsy. Research shows that CBD can be safe and effective when used appropriately. As with any supplement, it is important to consult with your veterinarian before using CBD to ensure that the product is safe and appropriate for your pet.