The Potential of CBD for Pets After Surgery: A Comprehensive Guide for Pet Parents

Surgical procedures for beloved furry friends—whether a routine spay or a complex orthopedic surgery—are stressful for both pet parents and pets alike. Surgery often involves pain, inflammation, and a challenging recovery period, making pet parents want to do within their power to help their pets heal comfortably and quickly. That’s where CBD steps in as a promising natural remedy to support pets recovering from surgery.

CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a non-psychoactive compound extracted from hemp. It works by interacting with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex cell-signaling system present in all mammals, including dogs and cats! (Iannotti, F., Marzo, V., & Petrosino, S., 2016). The ECS helps regulate various physiological processes such as pain, inflammation, anxiety, and immune response—key elements in the healing process. Using CBD, pet parents are finding a natural alternative to support their furry friend’s recovery.

Time to dive into how CBD supports pets post-surgery, from reducing pain and inflammation to promoting restful sleep and even aiding in bone healing. The importance of proper dosage, safety considerations, and the benefits of consulting with a veterinarian before starting any CBD regimen.

Managing Pain and Reducing Inflammation with CBD

One of the top priorities after any surgery is managing pain and keeping inflammation under control. Traditional pain medications, while effective, sometimes have unwanted side effects like drowsiness, stomach upset, or dependency. A systematic review from the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine concluded that “NSAID-induced adverse effects in dogs are common, with high strength of evidence for carprofen, firocoxib, and meloxicam, moderate for deracoxib, ketoprofen, and robenacoxib, and low for etodolac,” (Monteiro-Steagall, B., Steagall, P., & Lascelles, B., 2013). That’s why many pet owners are seeking alternatives like CBD to manage post-surgery pain.

Why CBD for Pain Relief?

CBD has both anti-inflammatory and analgesic (pain-relieving) properties, which help minimize discomfort and support a smoother recovery. Studies suggest that CBD exerts its anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects primarily through modulation of cytokine production, interaction with CB2 and 5-HT1A receptors, and inhibition of specific signaling pathways like MAPK and NF-κB (Henshaw, F., et al., 2021; Rock, E., Limebeer, C., & Parker, L., 2018; Wang, Y., et al., 2022; Thapa, D., et al., 2018). When administered at an appropriate dosage, CBD helps pets experience a higher pain threshold, allowing them to rest and heal comfortably as explained below.

• Reducing Inflammation: CBD interacts with the immune system, helping to moderate excessive inflammation (Henshaw, F., et al., 2021). While inflammation is a natural part of healing, too much of it delays recovery and leads to pain.
• Alleviating Pain: CBD raises a pet’s pain tolerance, which means they feel less sensitive to pain. This makes it easier for pets to move around post-surgery without feeling severe discomfort. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of daily cannabidiol for the treatment of canine osteoarthritis pain showed that “CBD significantly decreased pain and increased mobility in a dose-dependent manner among animals with an affirmative diagnosis of osteoarthritis,” (Verrico, C., et al., 2020). 

For pet parents of larger dogs or pets with higher pain levels, starting with a veterinarian-recommended dose and increasing gradually make CBD a valuable addition to their recovery toolkit.

Easing Anxiety and Promoting Restful Sleep

For some pets, surgery is a traumatic experience. Between anesthesia, unfamiliar environments, and the discomfort that follows, it’s no wonder some pets experience anxiety and restlessness post-surgery (Siracusa, C., 2016; Hernández-Ávalos, I., et al., 2021). Anxiety leads to whining, pacing, and even difficulty sleeping—all of which slow down the healing process (Cole-King, A., & Harding, K., 2001; Broadbent, E., et al, 2003).).

CBD’s natural calming properties through modulation of serotonin and glutamate neurotransmission, endocannabinoid signaling, and activity in limbic and paralimbic brain areas, make it a great option to reduce anxiety and help pets relax (Crippa, J., et al., 2011).

How CBD Supports Relaxation and Sleep

CBD encourages relaxation by interacting with nervous system receptors, promoting a sense of calm. This is especially helpful for pets with post-operative anxiety or separation issues. Better yet, improved relaxation often leads to more restful sleep—a crucial component in recovery, as sleep enables the body to focus on repairing tissues and strengthening the immune system.

By reducing stress and encouraging sleep, CBD allows a furry friend’s body to focus more energy on recovery. Appropriate dosage is key here; start small and monitor how it affects a pet’s comfort and behavior.

Get started with CBD today!

Supporting Bone Healing and Immune System Function

Certain surgeries, like orthopedic procedures, involve bone manipulation or even bone breaks that need to heal. Other surgeries, such as spaying and neutering, temporarily suppress the immune system, making pets more vulnerable to infections (Greenfeld, K., et al., 2007). CBD offers support here as well.

CBD’s Role in Bone Healing and Immune Support

Research suggests that CBD promotes bone healing by stimulating cell response, potentially speeding up recovery for pets who have undergone bone-related surgeries (Kamali, A., et al., 2019). Additionally, CBD’s impact on the immune system helps in reducing infection risks, as it modulates immune responses.

While studies are still ongoing, early evidence shows promise in how CBD assists pets who need an extra immune boost post-surgery. This is particularly helpful for pets with chronic conditions or those on certain medications that compromise immunity.

Soothing the Incision Site with Topical CBD

An often-overlooked aspect of post-surgery recovery is taking care of the incision site. Licking, biting, or scratching disrupts healing, increases the risk of infection, and slows down the entire recovery process. CBD helps here, too.

Using Topical CBD for Incision Care

CBD products, like topical CBD salves, are directly applied to the incision area to provide localized relief. The anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties of CBD help promote healing while reducing itching, which deters pets from excessive licking or biting. An animal trial showed that “Topical application of CBD-VEGF promotes diabetic wound healing in a rat model, potentially offering a better therapeutic option for diabetic wounds,” (Yan, X., et al., 2010). 

For a full-spectrum approach, combining a topical CBD product with oral CBD administration provides comprehensive support by addressing both external and internal healing needs.

Safety First: Important Considerations When Using CBD for Pets

While CBD has great potential benefits, it’s essential to use it responsibly. Ensuring a pet’s safety means consulting with a veterinarian before starting CBD, especially if a pet is on certain medications or has a specific health condition.

Potential Risks and How to Avoid Them

Some points to keep in mind are listed below.

1. Interactions with Medications: CBD alters the effectiveness of certain drugs (Rong, C., et al., 2018). If a pet is on anti-inflammatory or pain medications, consult the pet’s veterinarian to prevent any interactions.
2. Blood-Thinning Properties: In some cases, CBD acts as a mild blood thinner, which is a concern post-surgery (Grinspoon, P., 2024). Be cautious if a pet has a history of bleeding disorders, and always discuss this with the pet’s veterinarian.
3. Finding the Right Dosage: Start with a low dose and adjust as needed based on the pet’s response. This is especially important for small pets or cats, as their tolerance differs from larger dogs.
4. Choose Quality Products: Not all CBD products are created equal. Look for organic, third-party-tested products designed specifically for pets to ensure the highest quality and safety. Check the product’s Certificate of Analysis (COA).

By being mindful of these considerations, pet parents help their pets enjoy the benefits of CBD safely.

Additional Holistic Tools to Support Post-Surgical Recovery

CBD works well as part of a larger, holistic recovery plan. Adding complementary therapies enhances CBD’s effects and creates a more comfortable recovery environment for a pet. Here are a few holistic therapies to consider.

Cold Laser Therapy: This is a non-invasive treatment that uses low-level light to reduce pain and inflammation. Combined with CBD, it is particularly effective for pets recovering from joint or bone surgeries.

Medicinal Mushrooms: Mushrooms like reishi and turkey tail are known to boost immune system function, reducing inflammation and promoting healing.

Acupuncture: This ancient practice involves inserting tiny needles into specific body points to relieve pain and promote healing. Acupuncture, combined with CBD, is a calming and pain-relieving option for pets recovering from surgery.

Massage Therapy: Gentle massage improves circulation, reduces stiffness, and promotes relaxation—all helpful in speeding up recovery when used alongside CBD.

By using a mix of these therapies, pet parents help their pets feel supported on all fronts during recovery.

Developing a Post-Surgery Recovery Plan with CBD

Creating a comprehensive recovery plan is key to making sure a pet’s post-surgical experience is as comfortable and efficient as possible. 

1. Consult the Pet’s Vet: Follow all post-operative instructions and ask for guidance on CBD dosage and safe use, especially if a pet is on medications.
2. Incorporate CBD Wisely: Use CBD to address pain, anxiety, and inflammation. Monitor the pet’s response and adjust dosage accordingly.
3. Add Holistic Therapies: Combine CBD with complementary therapies like acupuncture, massage, or cold laser therapy for a well-rounded recovery.
4. Provide Proper Nutrition: A balanced diet high in protein, vitamins, and minerals is essential for tissue repair and immune support.
5. Prioritize Rest and Comfort: Create a quiet, cozy space for a pet to relax in, minimizing any stressors and allowing them to focus on healing.

Conclusion

The use of CBD for pets recovering from surgery presents several potential benefits, including pain and inflammation reduction, improved sleep quality, enhanced bone healing, and boosted immune support. CBD serves as a source of relief and comfort for pets during their recovery periods, making it a compelling natural alternative for those exploring recovery solutions.

However, to ensure safe and effective use, responsible administration and professional oversight are crucial. Consulting the pet’s veterinarian is essential to determine whether CBD is appropriate for a pet’s specific needs. By integrating CBD with holistic therapies and a comprehensive recovery plan, pet parents create an environment that facilitates a smoother, quicker, and more comfortable recovery for their pets.

For those interested in understanding more about how CBD aids in a pet’s recovery or looking for high-quality, pet-safe CBD products, consider Paws & Claw CBD. Our team is dedicated to guiding pet owners through the safe use of CBD, ensuring their beloved companions return to health and happiness.

References

• Cole-King, A., & Harding, K. (2001). Psychological Factors and Delayed Healing in Chronic Wounds. Psychosomatic Medicine, 63, 216-220. https://doi.org/10.1097/00006842-200103000-00004.
• Crippa, J., Derenusson, G., Ferrari, T., Wichert-Ana, L., Duran, F., Martín-Santos, R., Simões, M., Bhattacharyya, S., Fusar-Poli, P., Atakan, Z., Filho, A., Freitas-Ferrari, M., McGuire, P., Zuardi, A., Busatto, G., & Hallak, J. (2011). Neural basis of anxiolytic effects of cannabidiol (CBD) in generalized social anxiety disorder: a preliminary report. Journal of Psychopharmacology, 25, 121 – 130. https://doi.org/10.1177/0269881110379283.
• Greenfeld, K., Avraham, R., Benish, M., Goldfarb, Y., Rosenne, E., Shapira, Y., Rudich, T., & Ben-Eliyahu, S. (2007). Immune suppression while awaiting surgery and following it: Dissociations between plasma cytokine levels, their induced production, and NK cell cytotoxicity. Brain, Behavior, and Immunity, 21, 503-513. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bbi.2006.12.006.
• Grinspoon, P. (2024, April 4). Cannabidiol (CBD): What we know and what we don’t. Harvard Health Publishing. Retrieved November 7, 2024, from https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/cannabidiol-cbd-what-we-know-and-what-we-dont-2018082414476
• Henshaw, F., Dewsbury, L., Lim, C., & Steiner, G. (2021). The Effects of Cannabinoids on Pro- and Anti-Inflammatory Cytokines: A Systematic Review of In Vivo Studies. Cannabis and cannabinoid research. https://doi.org/10.1089/can.2020.0105.
• Hernández-Ávalos, I., Flores-Gasca, E., Mota-Rojas, D., Casas-Alvarado, A., Miranda-Cortés, A., & Domínguez-Oliva, A. (2021). Neurobiology of anesthetic-surgical stress and induced behavioral changes in dogs and cats: A review. Veterinary World, 14, 393 – 404. https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2021.393-404.
• Iannotti, F., Marzo, V., & Petrosino, S. (2016). Endocannabinoids and endocannabinoid-related mediators: Targets, metabolism and role in neurological disorders. Progress in lipid research, 62, 107-28. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.plipres.2016.02.002.
• Kamali, A., Oryan, A., Hosseini, S., Ghanian, M., Alizadeh, M., Eslaminejad, M., & Baharvand, H. (2019). Cannabidiol-loaded microspheres incorporated into osteoconductive scaffold enhance mesenchymal stem cell recruitment and regeneration of critical-sized bone defects. Materials science & engineering. C, Materials for biological applications, 101, 64-75. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.msec.2019.03.070.
• Monteiro-Steagall, B., Steagall, P., & Lascelles, B. (2013). Systematic review of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug-induced adverse effects in dogs. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 27 5, 1011-9. https://doi.org/10.1111/jvim.12127.
• Rock, E., Limebeer, C., & Parker, L. (2018). Effect of cannabidiolic acid and ∆9-tetrahydrocannabinol on carrageenan-induced hyperalgesia and edema in a rodent model of inflammatory pain. Psychopharmacology, 235, 3259 – 3271. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00213-018-5034-1.
• Rong, C., Carmona, N., Lee, Y., Ragguett, R., Pan, Z., Rosenblat, J., Subramaniapillai, M., Shekotikhina, M., Almatham, F., Alageel, A., Mansur, R., Ho, R., & McIntyre, R. (2018). Drug-drug interactions as a result of co-administering Δ9-THC and CBD with other psychotropic agents. Expert Opinion on Drug Safety, 17, 51 – 54. https://doi.org/10.1080/14740338.2017.1397128.
• Siracusa, C. (2016). Treatments affecting dog behaviour: something to be aware of. Veterinary Record, 179, 460 – 461. https://doi.org/10.1136/vr.i5904.
• Thapa, D., Cairns, E., Szcześniak, A., Toguri, J., Caldwell, M., & Kelly, M. (2018). The Cannabinoids Δ8THC, CBD, and HU-308 Act via Distinct Receptors to Reduce Corneal Pain and Inflammation. Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, 3, 11 – 20. https://doi.org/10.1089/can.2017.0041.
• Verrico, C., Wesson, S., Konduri, V., Hofferek, C., Vazquez-Perez, J., Blair, E., Dunner, K., Salimpour, P., Decker, W., & Halpert, M. (2020). A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of daily cannabidiol for the treatment of canine osteoarthritis pain.. Pain. https://doi.org/10.1097/j.pain.0000000000001896.
• Wang, Y., Wang, X., Yang, Y., Quan, Q., Huo, T., Yang, S., Ju, R., & An, Q. (2022). Comparison of the in vitro Anti-Inflammatory Effect of Cannabidiol to Dexamethasone. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 15, 1959 – 1967. https://doi.org/10.2147/CCID.S378798.
• Yan, X., Chen, B., Lin, Y., Li, Y., Xiao, Z., Hou, X., Tan, Q., & Dai, J. (2010). Acceleration of diabetic wound healing by collagen-binding vascular endothelial growth factor in diabetic rat model. Diabetes research and clinical practice, 90 1, 66-72. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.diabres.2010.07.001.