CBD For Alopecia in Pets: A Natural Remedy

Alopecia is a common condition that causes hair loss in dogs and cats. If contracted, it is distressing for both pets and their owners. While traditional treatments exist, many pet parents are increasingly interested in natural remedies. That’s where CBD comes in, offering a potential solution for managing alopecia and improving a pet’s overall well-being (Wal, P., & Wal, A., 2023).

What is Alopecia?

Alopecia often involves distinct patches of hair loss, sometimes accompanied by changes in skin color, inflammation, or scaling. It is more than just shedding. Sometimes it is called “black skin disease” if accompanied by hyperpigmentation or skin darkening. Some cases involve the pet’s endocrine, lymphatic, and immune systems (Schmeitzel, L., 1990; Galeotti, F., et al., 2004; McElwee, K., et al., 1999). But don’t worry! Understanding the root cause paves the way to help a furry friend find relief.

Causes of Alopecia in Dogs and Cats

Figuring out what’s causing a pet’s alopecia is the first step to finding the right solution. It’s like detective work, and sometimes it takes a bit of digging to uncover the culprit. Some of the usual suspects are discussed below.

Parasites

Those pesky critters like fleas, ticks, mites, and lice cause intense itching and irritation, leading to hair loss. Think of it as a pet’s way of scratching away those unwanted guests. Unfortunately, excessive scratching damages the skin and hair follicles, making things worse. A study on canine scabies caused by burrowing mites concluded “Intense scratching and biting in dogs cause skin damage and hair loss due to the burrowing mites’ invasion of the skin,” (Diwakar, R., 2017).  

Allergies

Just like humans, pets have allergies too! These allergies are triggered by things in their food, like certain proteins or grains, or by things in their environment, such as pollen, dust mites, or even certain fabrics. A study on flea biology, allergy, and control concluded that “Flea-bite allergy in cats leads to clinical signs like pruritus, excoriations, self-induced alopecia, and miliary dermatitis,” (Noli, C., 2020). 

Stress

Stress causes hair loss in pets by exerting profound hair growth-inhibitory catagen-inducing and hair-damaging pro-inflammatory effects (Hadshiew, I., et al., 2004).  When a pet is anxious, fearful, or bored, they engage in excessive licking, chewing, or grooming behaviors. This damages their fur and leads to bald patches. It’s like they’re trying to soothe themselves, but unfortunately, it backfires and causes more problems.

Hormonal Imbalances

Hormones play a crucial role in hair growth (Grymowicz, M., et al., 2020).). When things are out of whack, it leads to hair loss. Conditions like Cushing’s disease (too much cortisol) or hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid) disrupt the delicate balance of hormones and affect hair growth.

The pet’s veterinarians are partners in this detective work, they help pinpoint the cause of a pet’s alopecia through a physical exam, laboratory tests, and history about a pet’s lifestyle and habits.

CBD Oil for Alopecia

CBD oil has been gaining popularity for its potential benefits in both humans and pets. But what exactly is it, and how does it help with alopecia? CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a natural compound found in hemp. It interacts with the pet’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex network of receptors that helps regulate various bodily functions. Think of the ECS as a pet’s internal balancing system, helping to keep everything in harmony.

How Does CBD Oil Help with Alopecia

CBD oil offers several potential benefits for pets experiencing hair loss.

Reduces Inflammation

Inflammation is often a key factor in alopecia, contributing to itching, irritation, and damage to hair follicles. A case study showed that “alopecia in a black Labrador retriever was caused by focal sub-follicular panniculitis and sebaceous adenitis, with partial hair regrowth in larger lesions and permanent alopecia in the center of larger lesions,” (Varjonen, K., et al., 2010). CBD is a potent anti-inflammatory, helping to soothe the skin and reduce those uncomfortable symptoms. An ex-vivo animal trial showed that “CBD demonstrated anti-inflammatory and immuno-modulating properties in dogs’ immune cells,” (Gugliandolo, E., et al., 2021). It’s like giving a pet’s skin a calming hug. A separate study showed that “CBD/CBDA as an adjunct therapy decreased pruritus in dogs with atopic dermatitis, but not skin lesions,” (Loewinger, M., et al., 2022).

Eases Anxiety

As discussed earlier, stress plays a significant role in alopecia. CBD helps ease anxiety and promote pet relaxation (Hunt, A., et al., 2023). This helps reduce those anxiety-driven behaviors like excessive licking and scratching that contribute to hair loss.

Supports Immune Function

A strong immune system is essential for healthy skin and coat. CBD helps support a pet’s immune system with its “anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, potentially benefiting chronic inflammation and acute inflammatory conditions,” (Martini, S., et al., 2023), making them less susceptible to infections that worsen alopecia. It’s like boosting their immune system to help fight off those pesky microbes that cause trouble.

Choosing the Right CBD Oil for Alopecia in Pets

Just like choosing the best ingredients for a healthy meal, selecting the right CBD oil for a pet involves knowledge and careful consideration. Make sure to get a high-quality product that provides the best possible support for a furry friend.

Look for Organic Hemp

Organic hemp is grown without the use of pesticides or herbicides, which are harmful to pets. Choosing organic means opting for a cleaner and safer product.

Third-Party Lab Testing

Reputable CBD companies have products tested by independent laboratories to verify their purity and potency. This testing ensures that the product contains the stated amount of CBD and is free from contaminants like heavy metals or pesticides. Think of it as a quality control check to ensure customers are getting what they pay for.

Consider the Extraction Method

The method used to extract CBD from hemp affects its quality and purity. CO2 extraction is generally considered the gold standard, as it produces a clean and potent extract without the use of harsh chemicals. “Supercritical CO2 extraction of industrial hemp inflorescences yields extracts with antiradical and antibacterial properties, with optimal conditions being 60°C and 320 bar pressure for cannabinoids and terpenes,” (Jokić, S., et al., 2022).

Choose a Reputable Brand

Do research and choose a CBD brand with a good reputation for quality and transparency. Look for companies that provide clear information about their products, sourcing, and manufacturing processes.

Types of CBD Oil

The different types of CBD oil are listed below.

• Full-spectrum CBD: Contains a range of cannabinoids found in hemp, including trace amounts of THC (less than 0.3%).
• Broad-spectrum CBD: Similar to full-spectrum, but with the THC removed.
• CBD isolate: Contains only pure CBD.

The pet’s veterinarian helps determine which type is most appropriate for the pet’s needs.

By taking the time to choose a high-quality CBD oil, pet parents are giving furry companions the best chance to experience its potential benefits for alopecia and overall well-being.

Natural Remedies for Alopecia

Once the cause of a pet’s alopecia has been uncovered, it’s time to explore natural remedies to help them heal and regrow that beautiful fur. Think of it as giving a pet’s body the tools it needs to restore balance and thrive.

Sometimes the simplest solutions make a world of difference. Some home remedies to consider are listed below.

Remove Allergens

If allergies are causing the pet’s hair loss, it’s like playing a game of hide-and-seek. Identify those sneaky allergens and remove them from the pet’s environment or system. This usually involves switching to a hypoallergenic diet, using bedding made with natural fibers, or even rinsing the pet’s paws after walks to remove pollen or other irritants.

Reduce Stress

Stress wreaks havoc on pets, just like it does on humans. Creating a calm and predictable environment works wonders for their overall well-being, including their skin and coat. Make sure they have a cozy and safe space to retreat to, provide plenty of engaging toys and playtime, and consider calming aids like pheromone diffusers or soothing music to help them relax.

Improve Diet

A healthy diet is the foundation of good health for all, including furry friends. Make sure a pet’s diet is balanced and provides all the essential nutrients they need for a healthy coat and skin. Look for high-quality protein sources, essential fatty acids like omega-3s and omega-6s, and a variety of vitamins and minerals. Think of it as providing their body with the building blocks for healthy fur growth.

Consulting A Veterinarian: A Crucial Step

Before starting a pet on any new treatment, including CBD oil, it’s essential to consult the pet’s veterinarian. Veterinarians play a crucial role in managing a pet’s alopecia.

Determine the underlying cause of alopecia: Veterinarians conduct a thorough examination and run tests to identify the specific cause of a pet’s hair loss.

Choose the right CBD product and dosage: Veterinarians advise on the appropriate type of CBD oil, dosage, and administration method for a pet’s individual needs. However, not all veterinarians welcome the idea of using CBD on pets as research is still ongoing. In this case, consult holistic veterinarians for proper clinical assessment of the pet’s needs. Open discussions with them provide answers to questions, address any concerns, and ensure the pet’s CBD journey is a safe and successful one.

Monitor for potential side effects: While CBD is generally safe, some pets experience mild side effects like drowsiness or changes in appetite. Veterinarians help monitor for these and adjust the dosage as needed.

Rule out other health conditions: Sometimes, hair loss is a symptom of an underlying health issue. Veterinarians help rule out any other potential causes.

By working closely with a veterinarian, pet parents ensure that they are making informed decisions about their pet’s health and choosing the best course of action to address their alopecia.

Conclusion

Alopecia is a frustrating condition, but natural remedies like CBD oil offer hope. By addressing the underlying cause and supporting the pet’s overall health, pet parents help them regain their healthy skin and coat. Always consult the pet’s veterinarian to ensure the best course of action for a furry friend.

References

• Diwakar, R. (2017). Canine Scabies: A Zoonotic Ectoparasitic Skin Disease. International Journal of Current Microbiology and Applied Sciences, 6, 1361-1365. https://doi.org/10.20546/IJCMAS.2017.604.166.
• Galeotti, F., Barzagli, F., Vercelli, A., Millanta, F., Poli, A., Jackson, D., & Abramo, F. (2004). Feline lymphangiosarcoma–definitive identification using a lymphatic vascular marker. Veterinary dermatology, 15 1, 13-8. https://doi.org/10.1111/J.1365-3164.2004.00354.X.
• Grymowicz, M., Rudnicka, E., Podfigurna, A., Napierała, P., Smolarczyk, R., Smolarczyk, K., & Męczekalski, B. (2020). Hormonal Effects on Hair Follicles. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 21. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms21155342.
• Gugliandolo, E., Licata, P., Peritore, A., Siracusa, R., D’amico, R., Cordaro, M., Fusco, R., Impellizzeri, D., Paola, R., Cuzzocrea, S., Crupi, R., & Interlandi, C. (2021). Effect of Cannabidiol (CBD) on Canine Inflammatory Response: An Ex Vivo Study on LPS Stimulated Whole Blood. Veterinary Sciences, 8. https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci8090185.
• Hadshiew, I., Foitzik, K., Arck, P., & Paus, R. (2004). Burden of hair loss: stress and the underestimated psychosocial impact of telogen effluvium and androgenetic alopecia.. The Journal of investigative dermatology, 123 3, 455-7 . https://doi.org/10.1111/J.0022-202X.2004.23237.X.
• Hunt, A., Flint, H., Logan, D., & King, T. (2023). A single dose of cannabidiol (CBD) positively influences measures of stress in dogs during separation and car travel. Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 10. https://doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2023.1112604.
• Jokić, S., Jerković, I., Pavić, V., Aladić, K., Molnar, M., Kovač, M., & Vladimir-Knežević, S. (2022). Terpenes and Cannabinoids in Supercritical CO2 Extracts of Industrial Hemp Inflorescences: Optimization of Extraction, Antiradical and Antibacterial Activity. Pharmaceuticals, 15. https://doi.org/10.3390/ph15091117.
• Loewinger, M., Wakshlag, J., Bowden, D., Peters-Kennedy, J., & Rosenberg, A. (2022). The effect of a mixed cannabidiol and cannabidiolic acid based oil on client‐owned dogs with atopic dermatitis. Veterinary Dermatology, 33, 329 – e77. https://doi.org/10.1111/vde.13077.
• Martini, S., Gemma, A., Ferrari, M., Cosentino, M., & Marino, F. (2023). Effects of Cannabidiol on Innate Immunity: Experimental Evidence and Clinical Relevance. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 24. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms24043125.
• McElwee, K., Tobin, D., Bystryn, J., King, L., & Sundberg, J. (1999). Alopecia areata: an autoimmune disease?. Experimental Dermatology, 8. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1600-0625.1999.tb00385.x.
• Noli, C. (2020). Flea Biology, Allergy and Control. , 437-449. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-29836-4_20.
• Schmeitzel, L. (1990). Sex hormone-related and growth hormone-related alopecias. The Veterinary clinics of North America. Small animal practice, 20 6, 1579-601. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0195-5616(90)50162-X.
• Varjonen, K., Rest, J., & Bond, R. (2010). Alopecia in a black Labrador retriever associated with focal sub-follicular panniculitis and sebaceous adenitis.. Veterinary dermatology, 21 4, 415-9. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-3164.2010.00868.x.
• Wal, P., & Wal, A. (2023). CBD: A Potential Lead against Hair Loss, Alopecia, and Its Potential Mechanisms. Current drug discovery technologies. https://doi.org/10.2174/1570163820666230720153607.