How to Give CBD to Cats in Oil Form

Cat parents want their furry pets to be contented, healthy, and happy—purring. But sometimes, feline companions face challenges like anxiety, pain, or other health issues. CBD oil potentially assists in that regard.

CBD, or cannabidiol, is a natural compound found in hemp. It’s gaining popularity for its potential to support the well-being of both humans and their pets. But how exactly is CBD oil given to a cat, especially when they’re known for their picky nature? This article covers everything cat parents need to know about giving CBD to their cat in oil form, from understanding how it works to finding the right dosage and administration method.

Understanding How CBD Works on Cats

Cats, like all mammals, have an endocannabinoid system (ECS).  Consider the ECS to be a network of receptors that regulates a variety of bodily activities such as mood, sleep, hunger, and immunological response. CBD interacts with these receptors to promote balance and overall well-being. It’s similar to gently nudging a cat’s internal systems in the right way.

How to Give CBD Oil to A Cat

Now that the right CBD oil is chosen and the appropriate dosage is determined, it’s time to administer it to a cat. Some methods to try are listed below.

Direct Administering CBD Oil

Give CBD oil to a cat in a few different ways. Direct administration involves using a dropper to apply the oil directly into a cat’s mouth. Place the dropper in the corner of a cat’s mouth and slightly elevate their chin for optimal results. Give the oil gently, letting it spread over time. Rewarding a cat with a treat afterward helps create a positive association with the process. 

For uncooperative cats, mix CBD oil into their food. Mix the oil thoroughly into wet food to ensure even distribution. If using dry food, add a small amount of wet food or a tasty topper to help the oil adhere to the kibble.

CBD Treats

CBD cat treats are the ideal fix if a cat loves a delicious reward! These treats are essentially regular cat treats with the added benefit of CBD. They’re pre-measured, making dosing a breeze, and most cats gobble them up without a fuss. To achieve the greatest outcomes, select treats with high-quality ingredients and clear dose instructions.  As always, start with a small amount and gradually increase as needed to find the optimal dosage for a cat.

Other Methods of Administering CBD to Cats

If a cat is particularly resistant to having oil dropped in their mouth or mixed with their food, there are a couple of other methods to try.  Firstly, apply the oil to their paw. Cats are thorough groomers and will probably lick the oil off, unintentionally absorbing CBD.  Secondly, try mixing a small amount of CBD oil with tuna or fish oil. This helps mask the taste of the CBD, making it more palatable for a finicky feline.

Tips for Successful CBD Oil Administering

Although it takes some finesse, ensure a feline friend’s success when introducing CBD to their regimen. Some tips to keep in mind are listed below.

Patience and Consistency

Cats are creatures of habit, and they do not immediately embrace something new in their routine. Patience is key when introducing CBD. Be consistent with the administration, even if a cat is hesitant at first. Over time, they’ll likely become more accustomed to it.

Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement goes a long way in making CBD administration a positive experience for a cat. Offer treats and praise during and after administering the CBD oil. This helps create a positive association with the process, making a cat more likely to cooperate in the future.

Observe Cats 

Every cat is unique, and their response to CBD varies. It’s important to closely observe a cat’s behavior and overall well-being after administering CBD. Look for positive changes, such as reduced anxiety or improved mobility. Also, be mindful of any potential side effects, like drowsiness or changes in appetite.

Adjust as Needed

Based on observations, adjust the dosage as needed or administration method to find what works best for a cat. “Escalating doses of CBD and THC were safely achieved in healthy cats, with mild, transient adverse events resolving without medical intervention,”  (Kulpa, J., et al., 2021). If adverse reactions are noticed, discontinue use and consult the cat’s veterinarian.

Determining the Right CBD Dosage

Finding the right CBD dosage for a cat is crucial. It’s like finding the purr-fect balance – not too much, not too little, but just right!

Start Low and Go Slow

It’s always best to start with a low dosage and gradually increase it until the desired effects are observed. This allows cat parents to monitor their cat’s response and avoid any potential side effects.

Dosage Factors

The ideal dosage for a cat depends on several factors, including:

Weight: Larger cats generally require higher doses than smaller cats.

Condition severity: More severe conditions require higher doses.

Individual sensitivity: Every cat is different, and some are more sensitive to CBD than others.

General Dosage Guideline

A good starting point is 0.20 mg of CBD per pound of body weight. However, this is just a general guideline. A study concluded “Single orally administered CBD doses up to 80 mg/kg were safe and well tolerated in this cohort of cats, with no adverse effects observed,” (Rozental, A., et al., 2022).  Always consult the cat’s veterinarian for personalized recommendations.

Monitoring A Cat

As CBD is introduced to a cat, keep a close eye on their behavior and overall well-being. Look for positive changes, such as reduced anxiety or improved mobility. Also, watch for any potential side effects, such as drowsiness or changes in appetite. Stop giving CBD and consult the cat’s veterinarian if any adverse reactions are noticed. 

Benefits of CBD Oil for Cats

Research suggests that CBD offers a variety of benefits for cats, helping them live happier, healthier lives. Some of the potential ways CBD supports a feline friend are discussed below.

Anxiety Relief

Cats experience anxiety just like humans do. Whether it’s separation anxiety when the humans leave for work, fear of loud noises like thunderstorms, or those dreaded trips to the vet, anxiety significantly impacts a cat’s well-being. CBD helps by promoting a sense of calm and relaxation by promoting a sense of calm and relaxation in the central nervous system (Shannon, S., et al., 2019).

Pain Management

Just like humans, cats experience pain from various sources, including arthritis, injuries, and chronic diseases. CBD offers a natural way to manage this pain and improve a cat’s comfort through TRPV1 activation (Gregorio, D., et al., 2018).

Inflammation Reduction

Inflammation is a natural response to injury or illness, but chronic inflammation is detrimental to a cat’s health. “Cannabidiol (CBD) exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, offering potential therapeutic benefits for diseases associated with oxidative stress,” (Atalay, S., et al., 2019). 

Seizure Management

An in vivo study has shown that CBD helps reduce the frequency and severity of seizures concluding that “CBD shows potential as a novel antiepileptic drug, inhibiting epileptiform activity in vitro and reducing seizure severity in vivo, potentially without affecting CB1 receptors,” (Jones, N., et al., 2010). This significantly improves their quality of life and reduces the need for conventional anti-seizure medications, which often have side effects.

Appetite Stimulation

If a cat is a picky eater or has lost their appetite due to illness, CBD helps stimulate their desire to eat. A scientific experiment showed that “Anandamide stimulates appetite in rats by stimulating CB1 receptors, highlighting the involvement of hypothalamic endocannabinoids in appetite initiation,” (Jamshidi, N., & Taylor, D., 2001). CBD promotes appetite stimulation by interacting with ECS. This is particularly important for maintaining their health and ensuring they get the nutrients they need.

General Wellness

Even if cats don’t have specific health concerns, CBD supports their overall wellness and helps them thrive. It’s like giving their endocannabinoid system a little boost, promoting balance and harmony within their body.

It’s important to remember that every cat is unique, and their response to CBD varies. Always consult the cat’s veterinarian for personalized advice and to ensure CBD is a safe and appropriate option for a feline friend.

Is CBD Safe for Cats?

Generally, yes! Studies indicate that CBD is safe and well-tolerated in cats (Rozental, A., et al., 2022). However, it’s always best to consult the cat’s veterinarian before starting a cat on CBD, especially if they have any underlying health conditions or are taking other medications. They help assess a cat’s individual needs and ensure CBD is a good fit for them.

Consult A Veterinarian

The cat’s attending veterinarian is a partner in the cat’s wellness journey. Maintain open communication with them about the decision to use CBD. They offer personalized guidance, address any concerns, and help monitor the cat’s progress.

By following these tips, cat parents help a cat have a positive experience with CBD and potentially unlock the many benefits it offers.

FAQs about Giving CBD Oil to Cats

Is CBD Legal for Cats?

Yes, CBD oil derived from hemp (with less than 0.3% THC) is federally legal in the United States. However, laws vary by state, so it’s always a good idea to check the local regulations.

Can I Give My Cat Human CBD Oil?

No, it’s important to use CBD products specifically formulated for pets. Some human CBD products contain ingredients that are harmful to cats.

How Long Does It Take for CBD to Work in Cats?

The onset of effects varies depending on the cat, the administration method, and the condition being addressed. Some cats experience relief within minutes, while others take longer.

What if My Cat Doesn’t Like The Taste of CBD oil?

If a cat is finicky, try mixing the oil with their food or using CBD treats. Try applying the oil to their paw or using tuna or fish oil to mask the taste.

Where Can I Find Reputable CBD Products for My Cat?

Look for brands that prioritize transparency and provide third-party lab testing results. Consult the cat’s veterinarian for recommendations on reputable brands and products.

Conclusion

CBD oil has the potential to be a valuable tool in supporting a cat’s health and happiness. Cat parents safely and effectively incorporate CBD into their cat’s wellness routine by understanding how it works, choosing the right product, and following proper dosage guidelines. Remember to be patient, observe a cat’s response, and consult a veterinarian for personalized guidance. 

References

• Atalay, S., Jarocka-Karpowicz, I., & Skrzydlewska, E. (2019). Antioxidative and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Cannabidiol. Antioxidants, 9. https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox9010021.
• Gregorio, D., McLaughlin, R., Posa, L., Ochoa-Sanchez, R., Enns, J., López-Canul, M., Aboud, M., Maione, S., Comai, S., & Gobbi, G. (2018). Cannabidiol modulates serotonergic transmission and reverses both allodynia and anxiety-like behavior in a model of neuropathic pain. Pain, 160, 136 – 150. https://doi.org/10.1097/j.pain.0000000000001386.
• Jamshidi, N., & Taylor, D. (2001). Anandamide administration into the ventromedial hypothalamus stimulates appetite in rats. British Journal of Pharmacology, 134. https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.bjp.0704379.
• Jones, N., Hill, A., Smith, I., Bevan, S., Williams, C., Whalley, B., & Stephens, G. (2010). Cannabidiol Displays Antiepileptiform and Antiseizure Properties In Vitro and In Vivo. Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, 332, 569 – 577. https://doi.org/10.1124/jpet.109.159145.
• Kulpa, J., Paulionis, L., Eglit, G., & Vaughn, D. (2021). Safety and tolerability of escalating cannabinoid doses in healthy cats. Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, 23, 1162 – 1175. https://doi.org/10.1177/1098612X211004215.
• Rozental, A., Gustafson, D., Kusick, B., Bartner, L., Castro, S., & McGrath, S. (2022). Pharmacokinetics of escalating single‐dose administration of cannabidiol to cats. Journal of Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics, 46, 25 – 33. https://doi.org/10.1111/jvp.13100.
• Shannon, S., Lewis, N., Lee, H., & Hughes, S. (2019). Cannabidiol in Anxiety and Sleep: A Large Case Series.. The Permanente journal, 23, 18-041 . https://doi.org/10.7812/TPP/18-041.