Why Didn’t CBD Work for My Pet?

A pet parent heard the hype about CBD for pets, but after trying it, they’re left wondering, “Why didn’t CBD work for my dog or cat?”

CBD, or cannabidiol, is a natural compound found in cannabis plants. It’s been shown to have a variety of potential benefits for both humans and animals, including reducing anxiety, pain, and inflammation.

So, if CBD is so effective, why is it not working for a furry friend? There are a few possible reasons.

Why CBD Is Not Be Working

It is frustrating when trying something with good reviews turns out to be ineffective. CBD is often touted as a miracle solution for a variety of pet ailments, but it’s not a magic bullet. Some of the most common reasons why CBD is not as effective as expected for their furry friend are listed below.

Dosage: Finding the Sweet Spot

Just like with any medication or supplement, finding the right CBD dosage is crucial. Using too little does not yield noticeable effects, while using too much increases the risk of potential side effects, although CBD is generally considered very safe.

Just like people, pets react differently to CBD. What works for one does not necessarily work for another. It’s important to find the right amount for a furry friend, dosage for dogs and dosage for cats depend on several factors. 

Weight: A larger dog generally needs a higher dose than a smaller cat.

Breed: Some breeds have different sensitivities to CBD.

Individual Needs: Every pet is unique! Some require a higher dose due to the severity of their condition or individual metabolism.

It’s always best to start low and gradually increase the dosage. Begin with the lowest recommended dose on the product label, and observe the pet closely. If there is no evident improvement after a few days, gradually increase the amount until what works best for a furry friend is determined.  

Root Cause: Addressing the Underlying Issue

While CBD is fantastic for managing symptoms, it’s important to remember that it does not address the underlying cause of a pet’s problem.

For instance, if a dog suffers from anxiety due to separation anxiety, CBD helps calm them and reduce their stress response. However, it does not magically resolve the separation anxiety itself. There is more like a need to combine CBD with behavioral training and other strategies to address the root cause of the anxiety.

Similarly, if a cat has arthritis, CBD helps manage the pain and inflammation, but it does not cure the underlying joint condition.

Old Habits Die Hard

If a pet has deeply ingrained behavioral problems, it takes time for CBD to take effect, even at the correct dosage.

Imagine a dog who has been barking excessively during thunderstorms for years. While CBD helps reduce their anxiety and promote calmness, it does not instantly erase that ingrained habit. With consistent use of CBD and perhaps some behavioral modification techniques, pet parents help their dogs learn to relax during storms, but it requires patience and persistence.

Examples of habits that CBD helps are listed below.

• Separation anxiety
• Noise phobias (thunderstorms, fireworks)
• Excessive barking or meowing
• Compulsive behaviors

Product Quality: Not All CBD is Created Equal

The quality of the chosen CBD product significantly impacts its effectiveness. Unfortunately, the pet CBD market is still relatively new, and regulations are still catching up. This means not all products are created equal. Some brands contain less CBD than advertised, while others contain harmful contaminants. So, choosing the right CBD products from trusted CBD brands is the key to unlocking the pet’s overall wellness.

Time: Patience is Key

Just like with any new supplement or medication, it takes time for CBD to build up in a pet’s system and start working. Don’t be discouraged if there are no immediate results.

How Long Does it Take?

The onset time varies depending on the product type, a pet’s individual metabolism, and the condition being addressed. Some pets experience noticeable effects within minutes, while others take days or even weeks to show improvement.

Signs of Quality CBD Products To Look For

Third-Party Testing

Reputable brands have their products tested by an independent laboratory. This third-party testing verifies both the purity and potency of the product.

Accurate CBD Content: It confirms that the product actually contains the amount of CBD stated on the label.

Free from Contaminants: It ensures the product is free from potentially harmful substances like heavy metals, pesticides, and residual solvents.

Always look for a Certificate of Analysis (COA) from a reputable third-party lab. This COA is readily available on the company’s website or upon request.

Organic Hemp

Whenever possible, choose CBD products made with organically grown hemp. This helps minimize a pet’s exposure to potentially harmful chemicals like pesticides and herbicides that are used in conventional farming.

Clear Labeling

A high-quality CBD product has clear and easy-to-understand labeling.

What to look for on the label:

CBD Content: The amount of CBD per serving should be clearly stated (e.g., 25mg per milliliter of oil).

Dosing Instructions: Clear instructions on how to administer the product and recommended dosages based on the pet’s weight should be provided.

Ingredients: A full list of ingredients is declared, allowing pet parents to identify any potential allergens or unwanted additives.

Types of CBD: A Quick Breakdown

Not all CBD is created equal. When browsing for CBD products, pet parents likely come across these three main types:

Full-Spectrum CBD: The Entourage Effect

Full-spectrum CBD is like a bustling city – it contains a whole community of compounds extracted from the hemp plant including the substances below.

Cannabinoids: Not just CBD, but also other beneficial cannabinoids like CBG (cannabigerol), CBN (cannabinol), and ≤0.3% THC (tetrahydrocannabinol).

Terpenes: Aromatic compounds that contribute to the scent and flavor of hemp, but also have potential therapeutic effects of their own.

Flavonoids: Plant compounds with antioxidant properties.

This rich blend of compounds creates what’s known as the entourage effect (Simei, J., et al., 2023). Think of it like a team working together – the different compounds interact synergistically to enhance each other’s effects, potentially leading to greater overall benefits.

Broad-Spectrum CBD: THC-Free

Broad-spectrum CBD is like full-spectrum’s close cousin. It contains most of the same beneficial compounds but with one key difference: the THC has been removed.

This is a good option for pet owners who want to avoid THC altogether, while still benefiting from the entourage effect of other cannabinoids and terpenes.

Isolate CBD: Pure and Simple

Isolate CBD is like a solo artist – it contains only pure CBD, with all other cannabinoids, terpenes, and plant compounds removed.

This is a good choice for pets who are sensitive to other cannabinoids or terpenes, or for pet owners who want to start with the most basic form of CBD.

Which type is best?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The best type of CBD for a pet depends on their individual needs and preferences. Some pets respond better to full-spectrum CBD, while others do well with broad-spectrum or isolate. It requires some experimentation to find what works best for a furry friend.

Tips for Success with CBD: A Guide for Pet Parents

Navigating the world of pet CBD feels a bit overwhelming. But with the right approach, pet owners increase the chances of seeing positive results for a furry friend. Some tips to guide pet parents on their CBD journey are discussed below.

Choose Quality Products: Don’t Skimp on Standards

The quality of the chosen CBD product significantly impacts its effectiveness and the pet’s safety. Be a discerning consumer and select products that prioritize quality and transparency. Do research and choose reputable brands with a strong track record. Always opt for products that have undergone third-party testing by an independent laboratory. This verifies the purity and potency of the product, ensuring it contains the advertised amount of CBD and is free from contaminants like heavy metals or pesticides.

Whenever possible, choose products made with organically grown hemp. This helps minimize a pet’s exposure to potentially harmful chemicals like pesticides and herbicides used in conventional farming. Remember, the pet’s health and well-being depend on the quality of the chosen CBD product, so don’t hesitate to ask questions and seek out brands that prioritize a pet’s best interests.

Start Low and Go Slow: A Gradual Approach

When introducing CBD to a pet, start with a low dose and gradually increase it until the desired effects are seen.

Why this approach?

• Minimizes Side Effects: Starting low helps reduce the risk of any potential side effects, although CBD is generally very well-tolerated by pets.
• Finds the Optimal Dose: Every pet is unique, and gradually increasing the dosage allows pet owners to find the “sweet spot” that provides the most benefit for their furry friend.

Be Patient and Consistent: Time is of the Essence

CBD is not a magic wand. It takes time to build up in the pet’s system and start working. Be patient and consistent with the dosage, and don’t get discouraged if there are no results immediately.

Combine with Other Therapies: A Holistic Approach

CBD is valuable to a pet’s overall wellness plan, but it often works best when combined with other therapies.

For example, if a pet has anxiety, consider combining CBD with behavioral training and environmental modifications. If they have arthritis, combine CBD with physical therapy and other pain management strategies.

Consult The Pet’s Veterinarian: A Trusted Partner

Before starting a pet on CBD, it’s always wise to consult the pet’s veterinarian. They provide valuable insights and guidance to ensure a safe and effective experience for a furry friend. A vet helps determine a safe and effective starting dosage based on the pet’s individual needs, considering factors like their weight, breed, and any underlying health conditions.

They also assess potential interactions with any medications a pet is currently taking and ensure that CBD is a safe addition to their treatment regimen. Furthermore, a veterinarian helps monitor the pet’s progress on CBD and make any necessary adjustments to their dosage or product type to optimize their well-being.

Important Note: While many veterinarians are becoming more knowledgeable about CBD, not all are fully on board yet. If a vet is hesitant or unfamiliar with CBD, consider seeking out a holistic veterinarian who has experience with cannabis therapies for pets.

Monitor The Pet: Stay Observant

Once a pet is started on CBD, keep a close eye on them for any changes in behavior, appetite, or energy levels. While side effects are rare, it’s always best to be observant.

If there are any unusual symptoms, consult the pet’s veterinarian.

Frequently Answered Questions

Is CBD Safe for Pets?

Yes, CBD is generally safe for pets when used responsibly and as directed. However, it’s always best to consult the pet’s veterinarian before starting them on CBD, especially if they have any underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.  

What about THC? Will It Get My Pet High?

THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the psychoactive compound in marijuana that causes a “high.” CBD products for pets are derived from hemp, which contains very low levels of THC (less than 0.3%). This is not enough to cause any psychoactive effects on a pet.  

Do Pets Overdose on CBD?

CBD is not toxic to pets, and it’s very unlikely that they overdose on it. However, giving them too much CBD causes mild side effects like drowsiness, diarrhea, or vomiting. Always start with a low dose and gradually increase it as needed.

How Long Does It Take for CBD to Work?

The onset time varies depending on the product type, the pet’s individual metabolism, and the condition being addressed. Some pets experience noticeable effects within minutes, while others take days or even weeks to show improvement.  

Can I Give My Pet Human CBD Oil?

It’s generally not recommended to give a pet human CBD oil. Human CBD products contain ingredients that are not safe for pets, such as artificial sweeteners or flavorings. Always choose CBD products specifically formulated for animals.

Conclusion

If a pet parent has tried CBD for their pet and it hasn’t worked, don’t give up! There are a few reasons why it is not effective, and there are ways to increase the chances of success. Talk to the pet’s veterinarian, choose a high-quality product, and be patient and consistent with use. With the right approach, pet parents help their furry friends experience the potential benefits of CBD.