Is CBD Safe for Cats?

If pet owners personally experience the potential benefits of CBD, it’s only natural to wonder if their feline companion also reap the rewards. After all, we want the best for our furry friends, right? While CBD has taken the human wellness world by storm, its use in cats is still relatively new, leaving many pet owners feeling a bit overwhelmed by the sheer amount of information out there.

CBD products come in all shapes and sizes – from oils and treats to creams and capsules, there’s even a whole range specifically formulated for pets! So, is hemp plant safe for cats to enjoy the same potential benefits? Let’s embark on a journey to explore the world of CBD, address the safety concerns, and see if it is a purr-fect addition to a cat’s wellness routine.

What is CBD?

CBD, short for cannabidiol, is just one of the many natural compounds found in the cannabis plant. Now, before picturing a cat getting the munchies, let’s clear something up: CBD is not the part that makes humans feel “high.” That’s THC’s job. CBD is usually sourced from hemp, a cannabis variety with very low THC levels. It’s believed to interact with the cat’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in keeping various bodily functions in balance.

Is CBD Safe for Cats?

The short answer is: generally, yes. Most cats tolerate CBD well, but just like introducing any new treat or supplement, it’s important to proceed with caution and observe the cat closely. 

“Single orally administered CBD doses up to 80 mg/kg were safe and well-tolerated in cats, with dose-proportional pharmacokinetics across a broad concentration range,” according to the 2022 study by Rozental, A., Gustafson, D., Kusick, B., Bartner, L., Castro, S., & McGrath, S., titled “Pharmacokinetics of escalating single‐dose administration of cannabidiol to cats.”

Some cats experience mild side effects like drowsiness or an upset tummy, especially when starting with higher doses.

“Escalating doses of CBD and THC, alone and in combination, are safe and tolerable in healthy cats, with mild, transient adverse events,” according to the 2021 study by Kulpa, J., Paulionis, L., Eglit, G., & Vaughn, D., titled “Safety and tolerability of escalating cannabinoid doses in healthy cats.”

Remember, not all CBD products are created equal. The CBD market is a bit overwhelming, so it’s crucial to prioritize quality. Opt for products specifically formulated for pets from reputable companies that provide third-party lab testing results. This ensures owners are giving their cats a pure and potent product, free from harmful contaminants.

Here are a few more things to consider when using CBD for cats:

• THC Content: Make sure the product contains little to no THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis that is toxic to cats.
• Drug Interactions: CBD interacts with certain medications, so consult the cat’s veterinarian about any medications or supplements the cat is currently taking.
• Individual Sensitivity: Each cat is unique. Monitor the cat’s response to CBD closely and adjust the dosage as needed under the guidance of the cat’s veterinarian.
• Veterinary Consultation: It’s always best to discuss CBD use with the cat’s attending veterinarian. They provide personalized advice based on the cat’s specific needs and health conditions.

Remember, CBD is a supplement for holistic healing, not a substitute for proper veterinary care. If a cat has any underlying health issues, it’s essential to address them with a veterinarian to develop a comprehensive treatment plan.

Potential Benefits of CBD for Cats

So, why are some cat parents turning to CBD? Well, there’s some promising research and plenty of anecdotal evidence suggesting CBD helps with a few things:

• Pain Management: If a cat has arthritis or is recovering from an injury, CBD offers some relief.
• Anxiety Relief: If a cat gets stressed out by loud noises or vet visits, CBD helps take the edge off.
• Seizure Support: Some studies suggest CBD reduces the frequency and severity of seizures.
• Appetite Booster: Some studies suggest CBD helps spark appetite.

“CBD appears to have good bioavailability and safety profile with few side effects in cats at physiological doses,” according to the 2023 study by Alvarenga, I., Panickar, K., Hess, H., & McGrath, S., titled “Scientific Validation of Cannabidiol for Management of Dog and Cat Diseases.”

Adverse Reactions to CBD in Cats

While generally safe, CBD causes some side effects in cats. Don’t panic, they’re usually mild. Keep an eye out for:

• Drowsiness
• Upset tummy
• Changes in appetite

If owners notice anything out of the ordinary, stop giving a cat CBD and call the cat’s attending veterinarian.

Is CBD Approved by the FDA for Cats?

Here’s the thing: The US Food & Drug Administration (FDA) hasn’t given the green light to any CBD products for animals yet. This means there’s no official dosage guideline or guarantee of quality. That’s why it’s so important to talk to the cat’s veterinarian and choose reputable brands.

How Much CBD Should Be Given to Cats?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer here. The ideal dose depends on the cat’s weight, the issue being addressed, and the product’s concentration. The cat’s veterinarian helps figure out the purr-fect amount.

When to Avoid CBD for Cats

Even though CBD is generally safe, there are a few situations where it’s best to steer clear:

• Pregnant or nursing cats
• Cats with liver disease or other serious health conditions
• Cats on certain medications that interact with CBD

Conclusion: Should You Give Your Cat CBD?

CBD holds promise for supporting our feline friends’ health, but it’s important to proceed with caution. If considering CBD for a cat, always talk to the cat’s veterinarian first. They help owners weigh the potential benefits and risks and make the best decision for their furry companion. When it comes to the cat’s health, it’s always better to be safe than sorry!

References 

• Alvarenga, I., Panickar, K., Hess, H., & McGrath, S. (2023). Scientific Validation of Cannabidiol for Management of Dog and Cat Diseases.. Annual review of animal biosciences, 11, 227-246. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-animal-081122-070236.
• American Kennel Club (AKC) – CBD Oil for Dogs: What You Need to Know: https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/cbd-oil-dogs/
• FDA Consumer Updates – What You Need to Know (And What We’re Working to Find Out) About Products Containing Cannabis or Cannabis-derived Compounds, Including CBD:https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/what-you-need-know-and-what-were-working-find-out-about-products-containing-cannabis-or-cannabis 
• Kocis, Paul; Vrana, Kent E. (2023). Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (∆9-THC) and Cannabidiol (CBD) Drug-Drug Interactions [Data set]. Scholarsphere. https://doi.org/10.26207/1t9z-ep92
• 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.
• National Institutes of Health (NIH) – Cannabis (Marijuana) and Cannabinoids: What You Need To Know: https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/cannabis-marijuana-and-cannabinoids-what-you-need-to-know
• Pennsylvania State University, College of Medicine, Dept of Pharmacology. NTI Meds to be Closely Monitored when Co-Administered with Cannabinoids.
• 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.