Skip to main content
thrive what studies say about giving cannabis to your pets

When it comes to giving CBD oil to your pets, there is a lot of information floating around online. The general thought is that if it is safe for human consumption, it should also be suitable to give CBD oil to your pets. Dr. Gary Richter, a vet based in Oakland, believes this statement holds some weight. Thanks to his online petition in 2017, there is now a compassionate care law for animals passed in California in January 2019.

If you are looking to find scientific studies to show the benefits and potentially harmful side effects of giving your pet CBD oil, the science is still in progress. Steps are being taken and studies are on the way, but there has been very little research conducted in this area so far.

The last thing you want to do is harm your pet by giving them something potentially harmful or even lethal. Doing what is best for your beloved pet should always be at the forefront of your mind, so it makes sense that when it comes to giving your dog or other pets CBD oil, you want to know that you are doing the right thing for them.

Bear in mind that in most states, the use of CBD oil for pets is still illegal. This means that anyone found giving their pet CBD oil or any vets prescribing it will violate the law in many states. It’s best to consult with your veterinarian first before looking into finding CBD for pets. 

What effect does CBD oil have on pets?

CBD is short for cannabidiol. It is an all-natural component that occurs in the cannabis plant. CBD is found in both cannabis and hemp plants. Cannabidiol is just one of approximately 100 phytocannabinoids found in cannabis. Concerning CBD specifically, it is found in higher concentrations in the cannabis crop than industrial hemp plants. This is why you will most likely find CBD oil extracts from marijuana rather than hemp. 

Cannabidiol is non-psychoactive. THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the component that contains these properties, meaning CBD oil will not cause any of the side effects you associate with marijuana.

Studies are ongoing when it comes to the effects on pets from CBD oil. One such investigation into the clinical Efficacy of Cannabidiol Treatment in Osteoarthritic Dogs showed that in a controlled study, the use of pharmacokinetics (CBD oil) in dogs showed a reduction in pain levels in association with their osteoarthritis pain in 80% of dogs.

Why should you give your pet CBD oil?

CBD oil works on the body’s endocannabinoid system. Dogs have a much more complex endocannabinoid system than humans meaning they may experience the effects of CBD oil differently than humans. Studies have shown that dogs may exhibit different effects upon the digestion of cannabis.

CBD has been used by some for many different reasons in humans and may be used for pain relief, anxiety, depression, and more. It is made in various forms, from tinctures to edibles to oils – all of which you can find at Thrive Cannabis Marketplace.

If your pet is in pain from conditions such as arthritis, suffers from anxiety, or needs help to relax, it may be worth looking into how CBD oil can help your pet. There are studies that show administering CBD oil to dogs may be effective, although there has not yet been any scientific study conducted to investigate the benefits of CBD oil in cats. That’s not to say there isn’t any potential benefit to giving your cat CBD oil.

It is vital to consult with your vet before giving your pet CBD oil. Do not medicate your pet before talking to your vet and finding out if you are able to give your pet CBD oil to help them, especially if they are already on a treatment plan and taking other medication.

Are there any side effects if you give your pet CBD oil?

Your pet can experience one or all of the following side effects of CBD oil:

  • Dry Mouth – CBD can lead to a decrease in the production of saliva. You would recognize this side effect from an increase in thirst in your dog.
  • Lower Blood Pressure – a drop in blood pressure in your pet could be a potential side effect from high doses of CBD oil.
  • Drowsiness – this side effect is especially noticeable if high dosages are used, an increase in sleepiness has been noted in dogs.

You know your pet best, so you should be on the lookout for a change in their behavior you could attribute to the ingestion of CBD oil. Keep in mind you and your vet should cease giving your pet CBD if any negative effects are exhibited to avoid doing more harm than good.

How Much CBD Oil should you give your pets?

Past studies and trials have looked at dosages between 1.5 mg and 2 mg per kilogram (2.20 lbs) of weight. Anything less can have negligible results, meaning there is no benefit to giving your pet CBD oil. The correct dosage of CBD oil for your pet depends on your pet, their tolerance, and most importantly – their initial reaction to adding CBD into their system. Just like each human can have a different reaction, the same applies to your pet! However, positive results have shown a 2mg per kilo dosage may provide some level of relief from pain and discomfort.

When it comes to the correct dosage of CBD oil for pets, it is worth remembering that The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has not approved CBD and has not issued a dosing chart. This means there is no way of knowing beforehand what amount of CBD oil could be toxic for your dog and you should be very cautious and consult your veterinarian.

Where can you buy CBD oil for pets?

Due to cannabis legalization in Nevada, CBD products for humans are readily available, but CBD products for your pet are still yet to have a legal framework in the state. It is best to visit your pet’s veterinarian if you notice any changes in their behavior first. If you are considering giving cannabis to your pet, ask the vet first for recommendations.