Paws and Claws CBD

CBD for Pet Skin Health: Does It Help Pets with Skin Issues?

Dr. Athena Gaffud

Pet parents cherish their furry companions’ soft fur and happy wagging tails. But sometimes, those joyful spirits are dampened by pesky skin troubles. Itchy patches, persistent scratching, and hair loss are signs of underlying issues like allergies, hot spots, or dermatitis. These conditions cause physical discomfort and lead to behavioral changes and a decline in overall well-being. That’s where CBD comes in, offering a potential natural remedy to soothe irritated skin, alleviate discomfort, and restore the pet’s happy demeanor.

Common Skin Woes in Pets: A Closer Look

Pets experience a range of skin issues that dampen their spirits and affect their overall well-being. “In dogs, otitis externa is the most common cutaneous infection, while pyoderma is prevalent in cats,” (Nocera, F., et al., 2021). From pesky allergies that make them itch and scratch incessantly to irritating dermatitis that causes redness and inflammation, these conditions significantly impact their quality of life.

The Unbearable Itch of Allergies

Allergies are a common culprit behind many pet skin problems. “Allergic skin diseases in dogs and cats are characterized by flea allergy, food allergy, and atopy, and can be managed through a multimodal approach with frequent communication with clients,” (Miller, J., S et al., 2023). Whether triggered by environmental factors like pollen or dust mites, or by certain ingredients in their food, allergies lead to intense itching, skin rashes, and even hair loss. The constant scratching and discomfort are distressing for both pets and their owners.

The Redness and Inflammation of Dermatitis

Dermatitis, another prevalent skin issue, manifests as red, inflamed patches on the skin. It is caused by various factors, including allergies, infections, or even stress. The constant itching and irritation associated with dermatitis are incredibly frustrating for pets and lead to secondary infections if left untreated. “Acral lick dermatitis in dogs is associated with underlying primary diseases, such as allergic disorders, and secondary infections drive the itch-lick cycle,” (Shumaker, A., 2019). 

The Painful Agony of Hot Spots

Hot spots, also known as acute moist dermatitis, are localized areas of inflamed, infected skin. They often appear suddenly and are extremely painful for pets. “acute moist dermatitis,” (Desiandura, K., et al., 2023). Constant licking and chewing at the affected area exacerbate the problem, making it crucial to address hot spots promptly to prevent further complications. “Canine pyotraumatic dermatitis (hot spot) is a rapidly developing, superficial, moist, exudative dermatitis caused by self-inflicted trauma, causing extreme pruritus and distraction, affecting its operational effectiveness and ability to stay on task,” (Palmer, L., 2018).

The Stubborn Persistence of Infections

Bacterial and fungal infections also wreak havoc on the pet’s skin. These infections cause a range of symptoms, including itching, redness, discharge, and even crusting of the skin. If left untreated, they spread and lead to more serious health issues. “Multi-drug-resistant bacteria are increasingly causing skin infections in dogs and cats, with Staphylococcus pseudintermedius being the most common bacterial cause,” (Nocera, F., et al., 2021).

The Silent Suffering of Hair Loss

Hair loss, or alopecia, is a symptom of underlying skin issues or a standalone problem. While it is not always painful, it is distressing for pets and their owners. Identifying the cause of hair loss is essential to determine the appropriate course of treatment. “Focal alopecia in dogs can be caused by inflammatory or non-inflammatory factors, and should be evaluated using a history, physical examination, and dermatological examination,” (Paterson, S., 2017).

The discomfort and distress caused by these skin conditions significantly impact a pet’s quality of life. But don’t lose hope! With proper care and treatment, including the potential benefits of CBD, pet parents help their furry friends find relief and restore their healthy, happy skin. Get a pet started with CBD here.

CBD and The Pet’s Skin

A young woman lovingly holding her cat in a cozy kitchen setting, showing affection and bonding with her pet.

So, how does CBD fit into the picture of a pet’s skin health? It’s all about a remarkable system within their body called the endocannabinoid system (ECS).

The Endocannabinoid System: The Pet’s Inner Balance

Picture the ECS as a vast network of receptors, like tiny messengers, spread throughout a pet’s body, including their skin. This intricate system plays a crucial role in maintaining balance and harmony, influencing everything from mood and sleep to appetite and immune response.  

CBD: The Gentle Nudge

CBD, or cannabidiol, is a natural compound found in hemp plants. It interacts with the ECS, essentially giving those tiny messengers a gentle nudge to keep things running smoothly. It’s like whispering words of encouragement to the body, helping it find its own natural equilibrium.  

CBD’s Potential Benefits for Skin Health: Beyond Inflammation

One of the most promising aspects of CBD is its potential anti-inflammatory properties. CBD helps calm the fiery inflammatory response when applied to the skin or taken orally, easing redness, swelling, and discomfort. “CBD, CBG, and CBD+THC combination exert a predominantly anti-inflammatory effect in vivo, reducing pro-inflammatory cytokine levels,” (Henshaw, F., et al., 2021). This is particularly beneficial for pets with conditions like allergies, dermatitis, and hot spots.

But CBD’s potential benefits for skin health extend beyond just inflammation. Some others are listed below as research suggests.

Promote Skin Healing

CBD encourages the growth of new, healthy skin cells, aiding in the repair of damaged areas. An in vitro study showed that “CBD increases cell growth and decreases senescence, improving wound healing in both healthy and stressed-induced senescent skin fibroblasts,” (Gerasymchuk, M., et al., 2022). This is particularly helpful for pets with wounds, scratches, or other skin injuries.

Reduce Itching and Scratching

By calming the nervous system, CBD helps decrease the urge to scratch, preventing further irritation and promoting healing. This is a game-changer for pets suffering from allergies or other itchy skin conditions. “Feeding dogs treats containing CBD does not negatively impact their daily activity levels, but may reduce scratching and may cause more running than control dogs,” (Morris, E., et al., 2020).

Support a Healthy Skin Barrier

A strong skin barrier is essential for keeping out irritants and maintaining moisture. CBD contributes to a healthier skin barrier, protecting a pet’s skin from environmental challenges like dry air or harsh chemicals. “CBD protects keratinocytes from UV damage by reducing lipid peroxidation and increasing endocannabinoids, counteracting oxidative stress and preventing cellular metabolic disturbances,” (Jastrząb, A., et al., 2021).

Additional Potential Benefits:

Antibacterial and antifungal properties: CBD helps combat bacterial and fungal infections contributing to skin problems.

Pain relief: CBD’s potential analgesic properties offer relief from pain associated with skin conditions.

Stress reduction: Stress worsens skin issues in pets. CBD’s calming effects help reduce stress and promote overall skin health.

The science behind CBD and skin health is still evolving, but the early evidence is promising. By interacting with the ECS and offering a range of potential benefits, CBD is a valuable tool in supporting a pet’s skin health and overall well-being.

Choosing the Right CBD Product for A Pet: A World of Possibilities

The world of CBD products for pets feels like a jungle, with countless options vying for attention. But don’t fret! We’re here to help navigate this exciting landscape and find the perfect product for a furry companion. Remember, the key is to choose a high-quality product with clear labeling and third-party lab testing, ensuring pet parents know exactly what they’re giving their beloved pets.

Oral Options: A Whole-Body Approach

For more systemic issues like anxiety, pain, or overall wellness support, oral CBD options are a popular choice. These include:

Oils and Tinctures: These liquid extracts are typically administered on the gums, under the tongue, or mixed with food. They offer fast-acting effects and allow for easy dosage adjustments.

Capsules and Softgels: Pre-measured and convenient, capsules and softgels are a great option for pets that don’t mind swallowing pills.

Treats: These tasty morsels make administering CBD a breeze, especially for picky eaters. They come in various flavors and textures to suit a pet’s preferences.

Topical Treatments: Targeted Relief

When a pet is dealing with localized skin issues like hot spots, itchy patches, or minor wounds, topical CBD treatments are a lifesaver. These come in various forms, including:

Balms and Salves: These thick, concentrated formulas are perfect for applying directly to problem areas. They offer localized relief from itching, inflammation, and discomfort.

Creams and Lotions: These lighter formulations are easily absorbed and used to cover larger areas of the skin. They’re ideal for managing dryness, flakiness, and general skin irritation.

Sprays: Convenient and easy to apply, CBD sprays are used to soothe irritated skin and provide quick relief from itching.

Shampoos and Conditioners: Bath Time Bliss

Bath time is a soothing and therapeutic experience for pets, especially when using CBD-infused shampoos and conditioners. These products help:

Cleanse and nourish the skin: CBD shampoos gently cleanse while providing essential nutrients and hydration to the skin.

Soothe irritation and itching: The anti-inflammatory properties of CBD help calm irritated skin and reduce itching during and after bath time.

Promote a healthy coat: CBD conditioners help detangle fur, reduce shedding, and leave the pet’s coat looking and feeling its best.

Remember, choosing the right CBD product involves considering a pet’s individual needs, preferences, and the specific skin condition being addressed. Don’t hesitate to consult the pet’s veterinarian for personalized recommendations and guidance. With the right product and dosage, pet owners harness the potential benefits of CBD to support their pet’s skin health and overall well-being.

Safety First: Talk to The Vet!

Before starting a pet on any new supplement, it’s vital to talk to a pet’s attending veterinarian. They offer guidance on appropriate dosage, and potential interactions with other medications, and monitor a pet’s progress. Remember, every pet is unique, and their CBD journey is ideally tailored to their individual needs.

Conclusion: CBD for Happy, Healthy Skin

CBD holds potential as a natural aid for various pet skin issues, offering a gentle and supportive approach. By understanding how it works, following proper dosage guidelines, and working with the pet’s veterinarian, pet owners safely and effectively incorporate CBD into a pet’s wellness routine.

Remember, a healthy pet is a happy pet. With love, attention, and perhaps a touch of CBD, pet parents help their furry friend feel their best from the inside out.

References

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