CBD is taking the world by storm, and its popularity is only increasing. People are using it for everything from anxiety and pain relief to skincare and even pet health. And while the research on CBD is still in its early stages, there’s a growing body of evidence to suggest that it could be a powerful tool in veterinary medicine.
CBD is short for cannabidiol, a compound found in cannabis plants. Unlike THC, the other major compound in cannabis, CBD does not have any psychoactive effects. That means it won’t get your pet high, but it does have several potential health benefits.
CBD is effective in reducing anxiety and pain in both humans and animals. It can also help reduce inflammation, which is why it’s being investigated as a potential treatment for a wide range of conditions like arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.
Below is a rundown of some of the ways CBD might be able to help your pet.
Reducing Anxiety
CBD is effective in reducing anxiety in both humans and animals. A study in the Journal of Psychopharmacology found that CBD oil was effective in reducing anxiety and improving sleep in a group of children with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
And a recent review of the literature on CBD and anxiety found that it could be an effective treatment for a wide range of anxiety disorders, including social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and PTSD.
CBD is thought to work by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating mood and anxiety.
Reducing Pain
CBD for dogs has also been shown to be effective in reducing pain. A study in the European Journal of Pain found that CBD applied to the skin was effective in reducing arthritis pain.
And a recent review of the literature on CBD and pain found that it could be an effective treatment for a wide range of types of pain, including neuropathic pain, inflammatory pain, and chronic pain.
CBD is thought to work by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating pain.
Reducing Inflammation
CBD has also been shown to be effective in reducing inflammation. A study in the Journal of Experimental Medicine found that CBD suppressed inflammation and reduced joint damage in rats with arthritis.
And a recent review of the literature on CBD and inflammation found that it could be an effective treatment for a wide range of inflammatory diseases, including Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and rheumatoid arthritis.
CBD is thought to work by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating inflammation.
Reducing Nausea and Vomiting
CBD has also been shown to be effective in reducing nausea and vomiting. A study in the British Journal of Pharmacology found that CBD was effective in reducing vomiting and nausea in rats.
And a recent review of the literature on CBD and nausea found that it could be an effective treatment for chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, as well as postoperative nausea and vomiting.
CBD is thought to work by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating nausea and vomiting.
Promoting Heart Health
CBD has also been shown to promote heart health. A study in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that CBD oil improved heart function in people with heart failure.
And a recent review of the literature on CBD and heart health found that it could be an effective treatment for a wide range of cardiovascular diseases, including hypertension, arrhythmia, myocarditis, and ischemic heart disease.
CBD is thought to work by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating cardiovascular function.
Side Effects
CBD is generally well-tolerated, but it can cause some side effects. The most common side effects are fatigue, diarrhea, and changes in appetite.
If you’re considering giving your pet CBD, it’s important to talk to your veterinarian first. They can help you determine whether it’s safe for your pet and make sure you’re using the right dosage.
How Pets Can Consume CBD
Apart from oil, CBD is available in a variety of other forms, including treats, capsules, and topical products.
The form you choose will likely depend on your pet’s preferences and your veterinarian’s recommendations. For example, treats may be easier to give to some pets, while oils may be more appropriate for others.
Look for products that are specifically designed for pets and that have been tested for safety and efficacy. And always start with the lowest possible dose to see how your pet reacts.