The CBD it is a cannabinoid present in the cannabis plant which, unlike THC, does not have psychoactive effects. Known for his therapeutic capabilities, is widely used in veterinary field for the care of four-legged patients and our trusted friends. Let's discover all the benefits, the right dosages and any contraindications.
How does CBD work in animals?
As with us humans, animals have a endocannabinoid system, composed of endogenous cannabinoids, similar to the phytocannabinoids of cannabis, CB1 and CB2 receptors and enzymes.
The main task of the endocannabinoid system is the maintenance ofhomeostasis, i.e. the internal balance which, if disturbed, can lead to various complications.
The CBD, by binding to the CB1 and CB2 receptors, supports and promotes correct functioning, promoting a higher quality of life and giving a daily feeling of well-being to our feline.
CBD: all the benefits in dogs and cats
Cannabis is one of the therapeutic substances used by man for the longest time. Now we know his benefits in animals, dogs, cats and more, are concrete and useful for the treatment of various pathologies.
Nowadays, thanks to the legislative recognition of cannabis as a therapy in the human and veterinary field, in Italy treatments can be prescribed based on cannabis to animals.
Although cannabis is not considered a first-line medicine, strange given its very low harmfulness, is a natural, effective and long-term alternative that is decidedly less harmful than traditional drugs. Below i main uses in the veterinary field.
- Used to reduce pain, particularly if chronic and/or neurogenic, CBD is useful for treatment of arthritis, arthrosis and rheumatism
- Soothes theanxiety and stress of the animal. It is ideal for a move, an arrival home after a long life in a kennel and other emotionally complex situations
- Improve the quality of sleep and calms insomnia
- Keep in good condition the hair and skin of felines
- Combined with chemotherapy, stimulates appetite and reduces pain
- It can treat theepilepsy in dogs
- For i age-related disorders
- Promotes the vitality and performance in old age
- Supports the immune system
- Optimize the effectiveness of veterinary care
CBD oil for animals: administration and dosage
There are various cannabis-based products for animals, but the most efficient, both in terms of practicality and effectiveness, is certainly theCBD oil.
Easy to administer, either directly orally using a practical bite-proof dropper dispenser, preferably on a full stomach to facilitate absorption or, even simpler, in the baby food favorite of our furry friends.
This is the result one has arrived at study conducted on 30 dogs and published in Canadian Journal of Veterinary Research. The aim of the research was to determine the pharmacokinetics, i.e absorption, CBD in dogs.
After administering the respective dose every 12 hours for six weeks, the scientists stated that the best absorption method it is the oral one. In this way, CBD oil is assimilated more directly and therefore more effectively through the oral and gastrointestinal mucosa.
Moving on to dosage, it is always recommended to start by administering small quantities of CBD oil. So that the animal can adapt and, possibly, regularly increase the doses up to the prescribed one and see how it responds.
If you are self-taught, however, and move without a veterinary consultation, but you want your puppy to enjoy the benefits of CBD, a good way to start would be:
- for i dogs, 4mg (3 drops) for every 5 kg of weight
- for i cats, 1.5 mg (1 drop) for every 5 kg of weight
But it is always better to ask for the advice of an expert and rremember of shake always remove the packaging before use and, once opened, keep it strictly in refrigerator.
CBD and veterinary use: are there any contraindications?
TheCBD oil it's an article healthy, which does not have doping effects, does not generate addiction and, consequently, is a generally good product safe that it has no side effects relevant.
Given that the use of products rich in cannabidiol in dogs and cats is growing significantly, a survey was conducted in 2019. research who wanted to investigate it safety and the long-term effects.
For 12 weeks, in both dogs and cats, a CBD concentration of 2mg/kg body weight was administered twice a day.
Despite the cats showed “much lower absorption kinetics or rapid elimination suggesting that the dosage may differ between the two species", it is noted that hemp products rich in CBD can be considered safe.
However, as anticipated, it is recommended to follow the quantities indicated on the package, start with low dosages and consult an expert veterinarian treatment with cannabinoids.
If you experience unwanted side effects, such as fatigue or diarrhea, which are often clear signs of a dosage too high, the number of drops should be reduced or administration discontinued.
