Medical cannabis products are being used in many areas to treat disorders and to reduce chronic pain in humans and now many pet owners find themselves wondering, “How can CBD oil help my cat?” Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and CBD (cannabidiol) are among the best-known chemical compounds found in cannabis. THC is responsible for the feelings of euphoria and the characteristic high associated with recreational use. CBD, by contrast, does not produce a high but has been used to treat seizure disorders, anxiety and to provide relief to chronic pain sufferers. CBD oil treatments are now available for pets and can offer real help for cats suffering from arthritis, anxiety and other chronic disorders.
How CBD Oil Works
In humans, CBD acts as an anti-inflammatory and an analgesic; it can also reduce the symptoms of certain anxiety and neurological disorders. It works by attaching itself to receptor cells in the endocannabinoid system, a part of the central nervous system in mammals. This can reduce the perception of pain and can offer added stability for patients with neuropathic disorders. CBD oil treatments are believed to work in a similar way in dogs and cats, allowing them to experience less anxiety and pain from short-term injuries and chronic health conditions.
Related: How Can CBD Oil Help My Dog?
The Benefits of CBD Oil for Pets
CNBC published an article about the ways in which CBD treatments can improve the lives of pets. Cat owners have reported a definite reduction in pain symptoms for animals suffering from arthritis and other painful disorders. While more research is required, CBD oil appears to be a safe and effective way to address issues of pain and nervousness in domestic cats.
CBD vs. Traditional Veterinary Treatments
The prescription medications most often used to treat chronic pain in cats can often leave these companion animals lethargic and without the energy to move or play. Anecdotal evidence suggests that CBD oil treatments can enhance the quality of life for cats recovering from acute accidents and those experiencing chronic pain due to cancer, arthritis and other serious veterinary conditions. CBD does not appear to depress appetite as some pain medications can. According to many reports, CBD oil can help cats seem to feel better and engage with their owners in play once again. The apparent benefits of CBD oil for cats far outweigh the reported risks of these treatments.
Can Cats Use CBD Oil Safely?
A 2016 article published in the New York Times outlines some of the most important benefits and risks of medical cannabis for pets. Most animals can be sensitive to THC. Dogs, in particular, can develop respiratory symptoms when even a moderate amount is ingested. Cats have shown signs of lethargy, slowed heart rate and vomiting after eating something with THC in it. CBD oil generally contains 0.3 percent or less of THC. While more research is needed on the chemical interactions between CBD oil and cats, anecdotal and clinical reports have been overwhelmingly positive to date.
Legal Issues with Veterinary CBD Oil
According to the provisions of the 2014 Farm Act passed by the U.S. Congress and signed into law by President Obama, products that contain a concentration of 0.3 percent or less of THC should be legal throughout the country. The hardline stance of the Drug Enforcement Administration, however, sometimes results in a zero-tolerance situation in which any amount of THC contained in CBD oil products could lead to their confiscation. Additionally, many cat owners must travel to neighboring states to purchase these products in areas where medical cannabis is legal. This can represent a real burden on cat owners interested in the best care for their beloved companions.
CBD oil has already demonstrated real benefits for cats suffering from chronic pain, nervousness and anxiety and other serious issues. Consulting with your veterinarian is the best way to find out more about these advanced CBD treatments and whether they are the right solution for your pet and your needs. If you are wondering, “How can CBD oil help my cat?” your veterinarian can provide the best guidance for your situation and the needs of your beloved pet.
