CBD For Animals ー What Is It? Is It Safe For Your Pet? [Infographic]

CBD for pets facts are still a relatively new and controversial topic of discussion.

But what should pet owners know about this natural compound?

Most importantly, it could alleviate a range of ailments and even stop you from using pet chemical treatments.

Here’s what we know so far.

Little Known Facts about CBD for Pets

Every mammal has an endocannabinoid system.
74% of CBD buyers are pet owners.
Women are 57% more likely to buy hemp-derived CBD dog products than men.
48% of pet owners purchase CBD for their pet’s back and joint pain.
65.5% of vets consider CBD somewhat helpful for pet anxiety.
Sales of CBD pet products quadrupled from $8 million in 2017 to $32 million in 2018.
Experts estimate that the pet CBD market will grow to $1.7 billion by 2025.

Pet CBD Facts in 2022

We all want our pets to stay healthy. That’s why it’s vital to catch up on the latest information that could help them.

1. Every Mammal Has an Endocannabinoid System

(Source: Holistic Hound)

CBD is a non-psychoactive phytocannabinoid derived from the resinous flower cannabis.
THC is closely related to CBD but holds the psychoactive components that are toxic to pets.
The endocannabinoid system in mammals regulates appetite, digestion, mood, sleep, temperature, memory, pain, and immune functions.

If you want to learn more about the plant’s effect on your pet, it’s essential to know more about it. Many owners avoid CBD due to a lack of scientific research on CBD for pets studies, but we’ll get to that a bit later.

2. CBD Helps Regulate the Endocannabinoid System and Aids Many Conditions

(Source: Medical News Today)

The system consists of three components: endocannabinoid receptors, endocannabinoids, and enzymes.
There are two types of cannabinoid receptors: CB1 influences cognitive functions like appetite and emotional processing. CB2 regulates symptoms like inflammation and pain.
A combination of the two creates a state of Homeostasis where the body regulates temperature and appetite.

Surprisingly, endocannabinoids regulate a lot in our bodies, yet we know so little about what they do or how they help us and our pets. Let’s find out more.

Facts Why CBD Is Good for Pets

What might CBD help your furry pals with?

3. The Number One Reason for Using CBD on Pets Is Back and Joint Pain

(Source: Animal Bliss)

Additionally, the top three medical reasons why owners try CBD for pets are anxiety, cancer symptoms, and seizures.
Plus, CBD can help with nausea, skin irritations, appetite, digestion, spasms, inflammatory arthritis, and glaucoma.
The big question is, does CBD get animals high? The short answer is no. The compound doesn’t have psychoactive properties.

CBD products for dogs come in a wide range of forms — from chews to topical treatments. But like everything in life, you should stay alert for potential harm.

Facts About CBD — Precautions and Side Effects

Now that you know more about the plant and its benefits, you should learn what to expect from a CBD product. Here’s what we know so far.

4. List of Potential Side Effects

(Source: Holista Pet)

Here’s what you can notice as adverse CBD effects:

Dry mouth
Lower blood pressure
Drowsiness
Increased Parkinson disease tremors
Inhibition of drug metabolism
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Hyperactivity
Nausea
Change in appetite
Disorientation

These are common side effects that can occur with any new products or medications. Besides, the benefits of CBD oil for dogs far outweigh the risks, which usually stop once your animal gets used to the product. If the effects persist, stop immediately.

(Source: Sit Stay)

Although the compound is entirely natural, CBD products may interact with certain medications, so make sure that your furry friend can use them. Most notably, CBD might make NSAIDs less effective or lower blood pressure significantly.
Ask your vet all questions that come to mind. For example, check if they’ve used this treatment in the past and the recommended dosage.
It’s important to get a specialist’s opinion on the signs to look out for regarding side effects and if the CBD is working.

Like with any medication, you should follow the CBD dosing recommendations strictly.

6. What Happens if You Give Your Dog Too Much CBD?

(Source: CBD Oil for Dogs)

Medically, your pup can’t overdose on CBD, so don’t panic about lethal dosages.
The World Health Organization’s study on large doses of CBD reports no significant effect on a wide range of physiological and biochemical parameters.
That said, your pup might look a bit sleepy, sluggish, and nauseous. We don’t recommend giving them anything more than the recommended dose.

Don’t panic if you go over the amount in the instructions, as pups tend to have a high tolerance for CBD.

CBD Oil for Pets — Dosage and Administration

It’s crucial to take note of the suggestions and discuss any concerns with your vet.

7. Types of Pet CBD Products

(Source: Proud Dog Mom)

Oral: In the form of capsules or chews, including the correct CBD dosage for dogs.
Topical: Great for joint pain and arthritis and applied directly to the skin.
Foods: Mostly for treats. You can also apply oil tinctures to regular pet food or treats.

CBD comes in different forms — full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, and CBD isolate. You want to use the latter since it’s the purest and has no traces of THC. Remember that CBD for cats with anxiety is different from dog products, so don’t interchange them.

8. Dosage to Achieve CBD Benefits for Pets

(Source: Source CBD)

The general rule of thumb is one to five mg of CBD for every 10 pounds of body weight. Each animal is different, so dosages may vary. We recommend you start very slowly to avoid the side effects as much as possible.
Follow the instructions on the label. It seems obvious, but accidents still happen. In 2018, the ASPCA reported that veterinary products accounted for 9.3% of their pet toxicity cases.
Other factors to consider: the size of your animal, their ailments, and the CBD manufacturer all matter.

The dosage of CBD for pets with cancer differs from the one for joint treatments or seizures, so it’s best to consult your vet.

Purchasing CBD for Cats and Dogs

You want the best for your furry companion, so what should you look out for when purchasing such products?

9. THC Potency Should Be Equal to or Less Than 0.3%

(Source: Marijuana Doctors)

Ask for the analysis certificate. All reputable manufacturers should have this available, and it should show the CBD amount per bottle, no contaminants, no residual solvents, or bacteria.
Purchase organic — it’s your best bet at finding products without chemical compounds. The good news is vets usually recommend them.
Beware of products with essential oils, and opt for those with a coconut or olive oil base.

There are many facts on CBD for pets to consider, but once you get started, you’ll become a fan in no time.

Facts About CBD Products for Pets

Here’s what other owners do to keep their furry pals happy and healthy.

10. 74% of CBD Buyers Have Pets

(Source: PR Newswire)

CBD for pets studies show that 48% of buyers stop using their pets’ prescriptions after trying the natural compound.
24% of pet owners use hemp-derived products on themselves, their pets, or both.
64% of CBD consumers buy the products to reduce their pets’ stress levels.

CBD oil for dogs with anxiety is one of the top trends in the market.

11. 83% of Pet Owners Feel Comfortable Discussing CBD With Their Vet

(Source: Frontiers in Veterinary Science)

Over 50% of pet owners said their immediate circle recommended them CBD products for pets.
91.8% of owners usually read the CBD product label before giving it to their furry pals.
Surprisingly, 8.2% said they don’t read the label very often. Always learn what you can about these products, or your animal companion might suffer the consequences.

With the boom of these products in the pet industry, it’s best to read as many facts about CBD as you can find before deciding about your pet.

Statistics on Pet CBD Products

Let’s take a look at the most popular CBD products.

12. In 2019, 48% of US Pet Owners Bought CBD Treats/Chews

(Source: Statista)

CBD oil was the second most popular choice at 27%.
14% of pet owners bought CBD capsules.
Last but not least, 9% got topical CBD products.

As it’s the most convenient way to administer CBD for pets, oil remains more popular.