CBD for Pets: The Pros and Cons
Did you know that about half of pet owners use CBD for pets? Pet owners have many reasons for doing so, especially if they are owners of older pets. Some pet owners give their pets CBD every day, while others give their pets CBD for specific reasons.
If you’re thinking about using CBD on your pets, your research probably led you here. This means that you’re in just the right place.
We’ll tell you the potential pros and cons of using CBD for pets so that you can make an informed decision. All you need to do is read on.
Is Using CBD on Pets Safe?
If you’re leery about using cannabis products on your pets, that’s completely understandable. However, the first thing you should know is that CBD is safe for pets, as long as you make sure you’re using products marked for pets.
CBD used in pet products is derived from hemp, a plant that has very low concentrations of THC. THC is the main compound that causes a high in marijuana. As it is not present in pet CBD, it will not make your pets high, making CBD entirely safe for pets.
Using CBD products meant for people on pets is a different story. Up to forty percent of CBD products for people can contain THC. You can read the labels to protect yourself from this, but you should not give your pets your CBD just to be safe.
Apart from using CBD, that’s marked for pets; you should also be aware of dosage guidelines. Follow them to the letter so that you don’t give your dog an overdose by mistake. If you notice any of the side effects mentioned in the cons section, lower or stop your pet’s dose right away.
Pros of CBD for Pets
There are many benefits to using CBD products for your pets. If your pet struggles with any of the things CBD can help, you should consider giving them CBD daily.
As a pet owner, you’d like to help your pet when they’re struggling. CBD products are an easy way to potentially manage that.
Reduces Pain and Inflammation
When CBD interacts with the system responsible for regulating a pet’s mood and behavior, it can mimic the effects of cannabinoids and reduce pain in the pet’s body.
Part of how it does this is by lowering inflammation, which benefits pets with arthritis. It also helps with muscle pain, as it can act as a muscle relaxer.
Reduces Anxiety
Whether your dog’s anxiety is caused by specific situations or is simply present, CBD will help.
The effects vary from pet to pet, exactly as they would with people. However, many people report a marked improvement in their pet’s mood after receiving CBD.
Reduces Seizures
Recent studies have shown that CBD can reduce the chance of seizures or the frequency of seizures in pets with epilepsy or other neurological disorders. This has been especially effective in dogs – around eighty-nine percent haven’t had seizures as frequently as they did before!
This isn’t to say that you should use it instead of any drugs the veterinarian may have given you. Speak to your pet’s vet before you use CBD to medicate for seizures. They may already be on medicine that would interact badly with CBD, or it may disrupt the vet’s treatment plan for your pet.
Cons of Using CBD for Pets
As many benefits as CBD has, CBD use also has its drawbacks. As a pet owner, you should be aware of these before you make a decision.
Most of these drawbacks are easily managed by lowering your pet’s dose, but it’s still something you should be aware of.
Potential for Overdose
The biggest downside of CBD is how easy it can be to accidentally give your pets too high of a dose. Overdoses of CBD can cause things such as excessive drooling, shaking, and vomiting. Keep an eye on your pet’s behavior to be sure you aren’t giving them too much CBD.
The best way to avoid overdosing your pets is to be sure you only give them a few drops three times a day. If you only need to give it to them once, you can also follow the dosing instructions on the bottle.
If you do either of these and are still concerned, consult with your pet’s vet to see how much CBD they should get.
Lowered Energy Levels
Overusing CBD can cause lethargy in pets, or make them appear as if they are depressed. They may not have as much energy or enthusiasm to run and play as they would otherwise.
Keep an eye on your pet if you notice drowsiness. Too much CBD can also lead to low blood pressure, which lethargy could be a symptom of.
Digestive Issues
Humans and pets alike can both have digestive issues resulting from CBD usage. These may present as diarrhea or loss of appetite. If you notice either one of these in your pet, keep an eye out – but don’t panic.
Digestive issues are a common side effect and aren’t always an indicator that your pet is receiving too high of a dosage.
Buy CBD Products Today
Now that you’ve heard all about the pros and cons of CBD for pets, you’re ready to make a decision. If you’ve chosen to purchase safe CBD products for your pets, congrats! You’re just a couple of clicks away from following through with that decision.
We have an entire section of CBD products devoted to pet use. You can head over to our online shop to purchase some CBD products today. Your pets will thank you for it!
