CBD or Cannabidiol oil is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid derived from hemp plants. Anecdotal evidence suggests that CBD oil may be beneficial in the management of a variety of health problems in humans and pets. However, to date, there is limited scientific data on the efficacy and safety of CBD oil administration in cats.

CBD oil is becoming increasingly popular among pet owners seeking alternatives to traditional medications. How quickly CBD takes effect—and how long it lasts—depends on several factors, including the specific product, the dosage given, and your cat’s individual metabolism. In general, CBD may start to produce noticeable effects about one hour after ingestion. In this article, we’ll explore the use of CBD in cats and explain what you can expect from this product.

Please Note: The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not yet approved the use of any CBD or hemp-based products in pets. The lack of regulations can be a safety concern for cat owners interested in using natural products like this. If you plan to administer CBD oil to your pet, you should always consult with your veterinarian before doing so.

What Is CBD Oil & How Does It Work?

In cannabis plants, there are more than 100 active compounds, but cannabidiol (CBD), is the most commonly used for medical purposes. CBD does not have the psychoactive effects of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), meaning it does not make a person feel “high.”

CBD oil should contain no more than 0.3% of THC to be considered safe for cats. CBD affects the body by interacting with receptors in the brain and immune system, helping to balance the endocannabinoid system. By interfacing with the endocannabinoid system, CBD helps to regulate mood, pain, and memory. In humans, the only FDA-approved CBD product can be prescribed to treat a specific form of epilepsy. Other potential uses, such as managing anxiety, stress, pain, inflammation, and sleep disorders, are still under investigation and have not yet been fully proven.

CBD Oil & Cats

In recent years, CBD oil has become increasingly popular among pet owners as an alternative way to help with certain ailments. With the scientific information we currently have, it appears that CBD oil is well absorbed and has few side effects in healthy cats; however, more scientific evidence is needed to establish a safe dose and a therapeutic frame for CBD. Although there is a rush of eager pet parents to the marketplace, we advise you to exercise caution when administering CBD to your cat and to only do so when using a product and dosage recommended and monitored by your veterinarian.

When Will You See the Results?

When it comes to CBD for cats, many pet owners are curious about how long it will take for the cannabinoid to work. Different products claim to work at different speeds. After ingestion, it takes approximately 1 to 2 hours for CBD to produce noticeable effects, and these may last several hours. However, this will depend on the dose administered, the cat’s metabolism, and the actual concentration of CBD in the product given.

What Conditions Can CBD Be Used to Treat in Cats?

CBD oil’s benefits have mainly been studied in humans, but there is no scientific evidence on how exactly it can help cats. However, numerous studies are underway, and it’s likely we will have clearer answers in the future. CBD oil is expected to potentially help with several conditions in cats, such as anxiety, stress, seizure disorders, and chronic pain. Whenever you consider giving your pet any CBD product, we strongly recommend speaking with your veterinarian first.

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How to Administer CBD to Cats

CBD products for cats can be found to be administered to cats in a variety of ways. In addition to liquid form and capsules, CBD oil is available in treats. Cats can be given CBD oil as a snack, or it can be added to their food. Usually, it is administered once or twice a day. There are some cats who don’t like the taste of CBD oils, which can make them reluctant to consume them. If your cat is picky, you may have more success with CBD treats.

You should start slowly and work your way up to the full dosage recommended on the package and approved by your veterinarian. You should always give it based on the pet’s weight.

Side Effects of CBD Oil in Cats

Adverse effects in cats following CBD administration include lethargy, licking, head shaking, pacing, drooling, low blood pressure, vomiting, and/or diarrhea. Generally speaking, side effects appear to be mild and tend to last a few hours until the product disappears from your cat’s body. However, if you notice any of the signs mentioned, make sure you contact your veterinarian or pet poison helpline for advice.

Adverse effects can happen if the owner has given the cat a product without veterinary supervision or if the product contains THC, which is toxic to cats. Your cat can overdose on CBD oil if you give your cat a very high dosage, if the product’s label has the wrong information, or if your cat absorbs the product differently due to taking other meds or having a health condition.

How Does CBD Oil Interact With Other Medications?

CBD oil is known to interact with other medications. When taken together, these can cause side effects. CBD oil can also reduce the effectiveness of some medications. If your pet is taking any medication, it is essential that you consult with your vet before giving your cat CBD products. Never make changes to your cat’s medications without discussing it with your vet. In some safety studies, CBD has also been shown to elevate liver enzymes. 

Is CBD Oil Safe for Cats?

There is currently a lack of scientific evidence to support the claim that CBD oil is safe for cats. Since the FDA does not regulate CBD products on the market, owners cannot be sure that they’re giving their cats the correct dosage. Given the total lack of regulatory control, consumers should exercise caution in the marketplace.  Cat owners need to be certain that the products they buy have been tested for both content and contaminants such as bacteria, fungi, and heavy metals.

Furthermore, when you consider that the potential side effects of CBD oil include gastrointestinal upset, drowsiness, and changes in appetite, it’s easy to see why it is important to consult with a veterinarian before giving CBD oil to a cat.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it is important to remember that every cat is different and will, therefore, react to CBD in different ways. Most cats will have noticeable effects 1 to 2 hours after ingesting CBD products. However, each product has a different dosage, and each cat has a different weight, metabolism, and needs. If you are considering giving your cat CBD, it’s essential to speak with your veterinarian first to ensure that it’s the right decision for your pet.

See also:

• Can Cats Have CBD Treats? Vet-Verified Safety & Benefits Explained
• 7 Best CBD Cat Treats – Reviews & Top Picks

Featured Image Credit: New Africa, Shutterstock