As CBD continues to get more and more attention for its potential therapeutic and pain management effects for humans, it’s no surprise the trend has carried over to our feline friends. Meant to be part of a wellness routine along with plenty of exercise and play, CBD can help support a sense of calm in your frisky feline, and help relax many of your cat’s behavior problems and health issues.
As a cat owner, you care about your cat’s health but may be hesitant to give your kitty CBD. Here, we outline everything you need to know about CBD for cats, including what it is, how it works, and our top CBD oils your cat is sure to love.
What is CBD?
While cannabis plants (hemp) contain over 100 active compounds, both CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) are the most common. THC is considered to be a psychoactive substance, which means it’s a chemical compound that changes how the brain functions. It can alter one’s perception, mood, and behavior, and is extremely toxic to pets.
Is CBD safe for cats?
Yes, CBD oil is completely safe for cats, as long as the THC levels are non-existent. CBD products for cats come in both CBD oils and CBD treats, in various flavors from salmon to bacon. The main reason people use CBD oil for cats is to boost their quality of life and relieve ailments, as it can be an effective and natural solution to minimize anxiety and other problems for cats without harmful side effects. Widely known as the most popular natural pet supplement on the market, CBD can be used to treat a variety of issues, including epilepsy, pain related to joint and organ inflammation, chronic anxiety, arthritis, and more.
CBD oil can also help improve your cat’s mood by activating the serotonin receptors in their brain, reducing their anxiety, and making them feel happier. If your cat suffers from separation anxiety or any other type of anxiety disorder, CBD oil may be just what they need to help them find relief. While CBD in cats can help reduce anxiety, relieve pain, and promote overall well-being, it is not a cure and is meant to be used as part of a wellness routine. Your cat should still continue to exercise and get as much play time in as possible.
What are the benefits of CBD for cats?
CBD oil provides health benefits for all types of cats, whether your feline friend has a decreased appetite or severe anxiety from check-ups at the vet. Aside from relieving symptoms of joint inflammation, CBD oil is known to:
- Treat chronic pain and infections
- Ease anxiety and depression
- Inhibit the growth and survival of cancerous cells
- Offer a healthy, soft, and shiny coat
- Reduce swelling and discomfort
- Boost quality of life and overall health
While CBD for cats does have some great benefits, there can be some adverse effects of CBD oil, including gastrointestinal upset. When given high doses of CBD oil, cats may experience drowsiness or develop upset tummies, but these problems usually subside when the CBD dose is lowered.
Best CBD oil for cats
CBD oil for cats comes in both broad-spectrum CBD and full-spectrum CBD oils. Broad-spectrum CBD contains all the same compounds as full-spectrum CBD, minus the THC. The safest are those derived from hemp and free of THC, and should also be sourced from domestically grown hemp plants. When shopping online for CBD oil, be sure to read the list of ingredients to look for natural ingredients without fillers, including hemp oil and coconut oil. Find quality cbd products labeled with the Certified Seal of the U.S. Hemp Authority or the National Animal Supplements Council Quality Seal, as these have met industry standards and have passed third-party audits. You should also make sure the CBD products you’re purchasing have gone through rigorous lab testing (no third-party labs) for content and contaminants like bacteria, fungus, and heavy metals.
If you choose to try CBD for your cat, here are the highest quality brands that are popular among cat owners:
1. HolistaPet
This salmon-flavored CBD oil contains broad-spectrum CBD along with other cannabinoids in a convenient dropper bottle, so you can easily drop the oil into your cat’s mouth cat food/water bowl. With no THC and manufactured in the U.S., all the ingredients are natural and include both CBD oil and hemp seed oil. HolistaPet has dedicated its brand to providing pet owners with alternatives to traditional prescription drugs, which are known to cause uncomfortable side effects for cats. Your cat is sure to experience the benefits of CBD oil with wholesome ingredients and no artificial preservatives.
2. CBDfx
Made with broad-spectrum CBD oil, CBDfx is organic, human-grade, vegan, and even comes with a natural bacon flavor for those picky eaters. Also in a convenient dropper bottle, this CBD oil delivers tons of wellness benefits that can help instill a sense of calming and relaxation in your cat. CBDfx’s mission is to provide pet owners with the purest and most effective CBD products, derived from organically grown and pesticide-free environments.
3. Pet Hemp Company
Pet Hemp Company produces salmon-flavored CBD treats made from natural and organic ingredients that are pharmacists-formulated, grain-free, and dairy-free. A great way to keep your feline friend healthy with an immune system boost, Pet Hemp’s products have been proven to reduce pain and anxiety in pets. Since they are salmon-flavored, your cat is bound to eat these treats eagerly instead of the typical fuss when introducing a new food.
Before purchasing any CBD for cats online, be sure to speak to your veterinarian. The amount of CBD oil you give your cat depends on their size and weight, and they can recommend a dosage and brand, and answer any questions you have about integrating this into your furry friend’s wellness routine.
How can I help my cat get the best care possible?
We know getting your kitty the best care possible is top of mind, that’s why Pumpkin Pet Insurance plans pay back 90% of eligible vet bills. Check out how one of Pumpkin’s cat insurance plans can help.
