The use of CBD in pets
CBD or cannabidiol is one of the main compounds in cannabis sativa, along with THC, tetrahydrocannabinol, but unlike the latter, it has no psychotropic effects.
Normally, new drugs and therapeutic products are first tested on laboratory animals, to evaluate their properties and possible side effects, but in this case the path has been reversedThe healing effects of CBD in humans have given rise to the possibility of using it in pets.
The CBD has become popular in the first decades of the 21st century for its therapeutic effects in humans, such as anticonvulsant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic and anti-stress, among other properties.
CBD for pets
Normally, new drugs and therapeutic products are first tested on laboratory animals, to evaluate their properties and possible side effects, but in this case the path has been reversedThe healing effects of CBD in humans have given rise to the possibility of using it in pets.
How does CBD work in humans?
This cannabis compound stimulates the endocannabinoid systema neurotransmitter system found in various organs of the body and linked to other systems, such as the immune, cardiovascular, neurological (pain and stress-related), gastrointestinal and liver functions.
Is CBD really good for pets?
The endocannabinoid system is not unique to humans, and is present in all mammals. In fact, all animals with a backbone have endocannabinoid systems: reptiles, birds, amphibians, fish and mammals.
So the answer is yes, the CBD can be beneficial for petsIt is recommended that a veterinary professional be consulted before use.
Benefits of CBD in pets
In general, veterinarians in Spain cannot prescribe the use of CBD for pets.because its sale as a veterinary medicinal product is not yet legal in Spain.
It is also true that more research and studies are still needed to better understand the positive and negative effects of CBD use in pets.
Benefits for dogs and cats
In the dogsCBD can be used to relieve pain and reduce anxiety. Apparently, dogs have a greater number of endocannabinoid receptors in the brain than other animals, so they may be more sensitive to doses of CBD.
It is advisable to start with very small doses of CBDThe liquid form of the product should be carefully raised until the desired effect is achieved.
In the case of our favourite felines, it is especially advisable to relieve stress caused by long journeys or hectic situations at home. In these cases, a small dose of CBD could act in the same way as an anxiolytic.
Benefits for other pets
For small mammals such as rabbits, guinea pigs and hamsters it can be used in minimal doses, after consultation with a veterinary professional, especially to determine the dosage.
For fish, birds, amphibians and reptiles there is virtually no information, and no evidence that it can be of any help to them.
Just as the same dose of CBD can affect every human being in different ways, it will be the same for your pets: not all dogs and cats react in the same way to CBD.
Finally, if you are going to use CBD in your pets, do it with certified and guaranteed products. Handmade products, produced without control, may have THCwhich may have harmful effects on dogs. And don't forget to always consult your vet.
In our cannabis association in BarcelonaSometimes we have CBD-type products from partner brands. Stay tuned to our social media and come and ask us or these CBD brands about their experience regarding the effects of CBD consumption in pets.
