CBD Oil for Pets? What, How and Why Leave a comment

With cannabis now legal in the Australia Capital Territory in small does, plus the gradual legalisation of medicinal cannabis, CBD oil is slowly making its way into the mainstream. But what exactly is it and why give it to your pet?

First up, what is CBD?

CBD is short for cannabidiol and is a compound that is found in the cannabis plant. CBD is not psychoactive, so will not give you a high. The psychoactive component of cannabis is delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC. This is what gives you the high you get from smoking weed.

There are some studies which have found benefits in THC, but most studies are using the benefits of CBD in medicinal products. CBD has anti inflammatory properties and is known to help with a variety of medical disorders, without getting you stoned.

Hemp is also from the same cannabis plant but contains very little to no traces of THC or CBD, so will not get you high, even when consuming a lot of it. Hemp has traditionally been used in the industrial and textile industries but is now also being used in food and beauty products.

How are pets affected by CBD?

There is actually very little research on the effects of CBD in pets. Some studies on dogs, carried out in the 1970’s discovered that they are particularly sensitive to cannabis products which contain THC. This is due to the fact that dogs have more THC receptor brain cells than we do. This can cause them adverse reactions, or even death, if consumed too high amount of THC.

As there is little research on the matter, it is advised that you are very careful when giving CBD to your pet, and always should check with your vet to discuss whether it is actually necessary.

Why are people using CBD for their pets?

Many people, who live in areas where CBD is legal, have turned to giving it to their pets. The reasons are really much the same as why humans take the substance. CBD oil for pets, according to some owners is said to reduce anxiety in nervous animals, it might help with pain or to reduce seizures in an animal.

While there is no scientific research on the matter, pet owners are saying they are seeing positive results. If you are considering using CBD oil for your pets, you should always check with a veterinary professional beforehand.

CBD oil for pets in Australia

Currently, in the majority of Australia states CBD oil is not legal for recreational use but may be if prescribed as medical cannabis from your doctor. Vets in Australia do have the option to prescribe human medications for pets for off label use, only if they deem it beneficial. However, this should always be with some degree of caution, particularly with the risks of too much THC in pets.

So, if CBD oil is off the menu, are there any other cannabis related products for your pets? Well, yes, you can always look at hemp pet treats for your animals. As hemp has little THC or CBD, it is generally safe to be consumed. Hemp can provide your pet with essential fatty acids for brain development, as well as EPA, which can improve mood and behaviour! Look for hemp oils and edible treats.

More on medicinal news for cannabis.