There is a lot of information on CBD oil for dogs, cats, and other pets floating around the Internet. Therefore, it is difficult to determine what's exaggerated and what is accurate. We all want what is best for our pets, leading us to our blog topic. What is CBD oil, and is it beneficial for pets?
What is CBD Oil for Pets?
Cannabidiol (CBD) is perhaps the most popular medicinal compound found in the cannabis plant. It is extracted mainly from industrial hemp, a version of the cannabis Sativa plant that contains only 0.3% THC or less.
The Farm Bill of 2018 made the cultivation of hemp legal in the United States. Hence, any product derived from it is also legal. When CBD is extracted from hemp, other compounds are removed as well. These compounds can be subdivided into three: cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids.
There are over 400 compounds in the hemp plant, and more than a hundred of them are called cannabinoids. However, CBD and THC are the most researched among all of them. Based on preliminary studies and anecdotal evidence, CBD offers the most medicinal benefits.
For CBD to be consumable, it's usually infused in a carrier oil, which increases its bioavailability. CBD oil for dogs is no different from CBD oil for humans. The only difference is the concentration. The dosage for CBD depends on the body weight of the user.
CBD oil for dogs and other pets is more effective when combined with other cannabinoids and terpenes. When CBD is taken along with the other compounds in hemp, they create an entourage effect. This means that each compound helps strengthen the benefits of cannabis.
Hemp oil that contains all other compounds found in the hemp plant is called full-spectrum CBD oil. If all other compounds are present except THC, it is called broad-spectrum CBD oil. The full spectrum is the most beneficial because it provides a better entourage effect.
CBD is extracted to get rid of plant material and all other compounds. It is called CBD isolate, The purest form of CBD there is. It can be infused in oil or infused into food products. However, research indicates that full-spectrum hemp oil is at least five times more potent than any isolated cannabinoid.
CBD oil extracted from industrial hemp does not have any side effects. Although there are trace amounts of THC in hemp, it is not enough to cause psychoactive effects. The industry standard for cultivated hemp is 0.3% THC or less.
Studies confirm that cannabinoids interact with the endocannabinoid system in animals. This is what makes CBD oil for dogs and other pets effective. The compound can help animals. Achieve a positive physiological balance.
How CBD Oil Can Help Your Pets
CBD oil for dogs or cats is derived from all-natural and organic ingredients. CBD and terpenes work together to affect the central and peripheral nervous system receptors, especially those that control vital functions such as pain sensation, immune response, memory, mood, appetite, and the like.
Although we already have positive data from preliminary studies on CBD, there is still a need for further research before making medical claims. Leading research institutions and universities are actively researching the possible effects of CBD on humans and pets.
Even the FDA supports the research on the medicinal benefits of cannabis-derived products. Cannabis has potential uses in medical conditions such as seizures, nausea, vomiting, inflammation, loss of appetite, arthritis, bone pain, and anxiety.
With all the present research and anecdotal evidence, we can say that CBD oil may help supplement a pet's health by affecting the receptors in the endocannabinoid system.
How CBD Oil Works for Pets
Mammals have a system of receptors that allow chemical messages to be passed via the nerve cells. These receptors can be activated by endocannabinoids and phytocannabinoids. Although the mammalian body produces its cannabinoids (endocannabinoids), these compounds often degrade quickly.
Phytocannabinoids are produced by plants, specifically the cannabis plant. These external cannabinoids can assist in activating the receptors in the mammalian body, which control vital physiological functions such as pain sensation, immune response, appetite, and mood.
Hence, when a pet consumes CBD products, they can benefit from the wonders of the cannabis plant. Humans have been using cannabinoids for thousands of years to treat ailments such as chronic pain and anxiety. It turns out that even pets can enjoy these benefits as well.
The Hemp Plant and the Endocannabinoid System
All animals except insects have an endocannabinoid system. This system is responsible for the messaging between nerve cells and can be activated by certain chemicals produced by the body or assimilated by the body.
By targeting this system in animals, we can help create a balance within their bodies when they are in homeostasis. All other bodily systems, such as the respiratory system and the cardiovascular system, work more efficiently.
Although the bodies of mammals produce endocannabinoids, it may not be enough to create homeostasis. We mentioned earlier that endocannabinoids might degrade faster due to certain physical conditions. Hence, it is important to supplement with plant cannabinoids such as CBD.
Fortunately, the use of CBD is legal in all states. It is derived from legal hemp, which contains a significant amount of CBD. With cannabinoids derived from the hemp plant, we can help boost the health of our pets, especially in areas such as sleep, memory, immunity, appetite, mobility, and pleasure.
The Safety of CBD for Pets
Marijuana and hemp refer to the same species of plant but different concentrations of cannabinoids, specifically THC. Hemp contains 0.3% or less THC., while marijuana contains significantly more significant amounts of THC. THC is the psychotropic cannabinoid that causes the euphoric high.
With farming practices, cultivators can lower the concentration of THC in cannabis and make it legal. It is the low concentration of THC that makes CBD products safe for pets. When pets take too much THC, they may act erratically because of the psychoactive effects of the compound.
When it comes to CBD products, they may contain a bit of THC, but that is fine. A bit of the compound can help contribute to the benefits of the product. The entourage effect caused by the synergy of different cannabinoids and terpenes may be more beneficial than CBD alone.
The Legality of CBD Oil for Pets
In some states, THC and other psychoactive compounds are considered illegal. However, CBD doesn't cause any psychoactive effects. In addition, it is mainly derived from legal industrial hemp, which contains a trace amount of THC.
CBD is derived from legal hemp, and it is legal to sell, possess, and use. In all states, it is legal to use CBD oil for dogs and other pets as well.
CBD Oil Dosage
There is no standard dose for animals for CBD oil, but there are recommendations based on the pet's body weight. The concentration of CBD is measured in milligrams (mg), and the recommended dosage is usually expressed in milligrams of CBD per kilo of the dog's weight.
The recommended CBD dosage is as follows:
- Minimum Dose: 0.05 mg / kilo
- Average Dose: 0.45 mg / kilo
- Strong Dose: 1.25 mg / kilo
- Maximum Dose: 5 mg / kilo
Therefore, if your pet dog weighs 20 kilograms, the minimum dose would be 1 mg of CBD, and the maximum amount would be 100 mg.
Just like in humans, pets should start with a minimum dose to allow the body to adjust to the effects of the external source of cannabinoids. You should increase the amount gradually over time until you see a noticeable impact on the animal.
When your pet is taking any medication, then you should provide a lower dosage. You may also want to talk to a veterinarian for recommendations, especially if your pet has a medical condition or is under medication.
There is no perfect dose for every pet animal. You have to start with the minimum dose and experiment with higher doses gradually. Increase the dose depending on what ailments your pet is experiencing, too. If they are in chronic pain, you may want to add more CBD and monitor the effects of the dosage.
Side Effects of CBD Oil Products
Is CBD oil safe for pets? Worrying about the side effects of CBD is a valid point. As owners love their pets so much, it is understandable for them to worry. However, some owners' only common side effect is that CBD does not do much for the dog. It is a rare side effect, though, because in most cases, the cannabinoid provides some form of relief or help for the pet.
Low to medium doses may cause an increase in the energy of the animal. High doses may cause relaxation, tiredness, and loss of motivation to do physical activities. In some cases, owners find that high doses can help keep their pets calm and relaxed.
Be very careful when giving your pet full-spectrum CBD oils and products, though. Watch out for high THC content because it may not be safe for your pet to use. Make sure that the dog treats and other CBD pet products are made from legal hemp.
Factors to Consider When Looking for CBD Oil for Pets
As pet owners, we all want our pets to be happy and healthy. However, we do not want them to take products that are not safe for them to take. We want them to have safe and high-quality products as much as possible. Here are four things to consider when purchasing CBD oil:
Is it organic?
Organic CBD products should be derived from organically grown hemp plants. Some products claim to be organic but are not. If you want to make sure that a product is organic, look for USDA organic certification. This certification shows that the product came from hemp and has not been exposed to pesticides, heavy metals, and the like.
The cannabis plant tends to absorb every chemical it comes in contact with. Therefore it is critical to check if a product is USDA Certified Organic. If you have the product's name, you can search the USDA organic integrity database to learn more. High-quality CBD products should have this certification.
What extraction method was used?
There are many ways to extract CBD from hemp. Solvent extraction using butane or alcohol is common, but this is not the safest way to do it. The best way is through solvent-free extraction using CO2. Check whether the CBD extraction method uses CO2 extraction, and your pet will be fine.
Does the product have a Certificate of Analysis (COA)?
Is the product lab-tested? The certificate of analysis is awarded to companies that have CBD products tested for quality and safety at a third-party lab. Third-party testing is the industry standard for the quality and safety of cannabis products sold on the market.
If a company does not have a certificate of analysis, you may risk buying a low-quality product. Make sure that the products you purchase are lab-tested for quality and safety.
What other ingredients are used in the oil?
The best carrier oil for CBD is hemp seed oil. It may not be the most economical ingredient to use, but it is the most efficient. Some products may contain MCT oil and organic coconut oil as carrier oils. These oils are cheaper but are effective carriers for CBD. If you want better quality oil, use CBD in hemp seed oil, MCT Oil, or coconut oil.
Full-spectrum vs. Broad-spectrum vs. Isolate
Full-spectrum CBD contains a complete number of cannabinoids and terpenes. Hence it has the best entourage effect among the other two types of CBD. It contains trace amounts of THC as well. Although THC may not be safe for dogs, trace amounts are acceptable and maybe even beneficial.
Broad-spectrum CBD contains all other compounds except for THC. It might not be as effective as full-spectrum, but it still has an entourage effect because of the terpenes and other trace cannabinoids found in it.
CBD isolate has no other additives. It is pure CBD. Hence, it does not have the benefit of the entourage effect. When you are choosing a CBD product, consider these forms. Full-spectrum contains THC, but it is the most beneficial.
Will pets get high from pet CBD products?
Dog owners should be aware of the difference between marijuana and hemp. Although both belong to the same plant species, they contain different concentrations of THC. By federal law, both terms refer to other things.
On the one hand, marijuana refers to cannabis with high concentrations of THC. It is illegal in some states and many countries because of its psychoactive properties. However, it is legal in some states and some countries.
On the other hand, hemp refers to legal cannabis, which contains only 0.3% THC. It is from hemp that most CBD products are derived from. All products derived from hemp are legal in all states in the US.
The main difference between hemp and marijuana is the psychoactive effects. Marijuana products contain high levels of THC, which can get people and animals high. CBD from legal hemp does not have enough THC to make anyone high.
Hence, as long as the CBD product you are giving your dog or any other pet is derived from legal hemp, it is safe for consumption and will not cause a euphoric high. You. You must always check the products you are buying, though. Some cannabis products contain high concentrations of THC.
Full-spectrum CBD products do contain THC but only in trace amounts. It is not enough to trigger a psychoactive effect. If you are concerned about the effect of THC on your dogs, then you better stick to broad-spectrum products or isolates.
As pet owners, it is understandable to be concerned about what goes into your pet's mouth. A little bit of THC will not harm you, but what if you have a tiny pet? It is a valid reason for concern. Remember that the impact of a cannabinoid's effect depends on the dose pet's body weight. A smaller animal may experience a mild high from taking full spectrum products.
CBD is a popular compound because of its calming effect. It does not cause a high, but it may cause heavy sedation when taken in large doses. Hence, it is essential to control the dosage, even for pets.
The Best CBD Oil for Pets
If you are looking for the highest-quality CBD oil, you should make sure that it is organic. Hemp has fantastic benefits, and one of the many things it can do is clear out toxic spills. Therefore, you should make sure that the source of hemp is free from harmful chemicals, heavy metals, pesticides, and the like.
Second, the CBD should be extracted using a safe method such as CO2 extraction. Third, the product must be lab-tested for quality and safety. Fourth, the carrier oil should be of satisfactory quality, as well. As long as the product has these qualities, then it can be called a high-quality CBD oil.
If you are looking to purchase CBD for your pet, visit our store at Apotheca. Check out the CBD tincture for dogs, and CBD Calming dog treats and peanut butter.
Our CBD Pet Tincture is a full-spectrum hemp oil extract designed for dogs. It has a lower potency, which makes it a perfect starting oil for pets. It contains both hemp oil and MCT coconut oil as a carrier. Also, it is made from 100% federally legal hemp.
As a full-spectrum product, your pet can experience the full entourage effect of CBD extract. It contains hemp seed oil, which is an efficient carrier for CBD. CBD oil tinctures make the CBD more bioavailable and more potent. Lastly, it is made from legal hemp, which contains only trace amounts of THC. It will not intoxicate your pet.
Calming CBD Pet Tincture is a product of Lazarus Naturals. The hemp is produced in-house at Lazarus Farms. It is third-party tested to ensure that it is consistent, high quality, and safe for use. It is also gluten-free and vegan-friendly. It does not contain any artificial flavours, preservatives, and sweeteners.
Follow the recommended dosing on the packaging as much as possible. How much CBD oil you give to your dog depends on how it responds to the effects of CBD. However, you should start with a low dose as a rule of thumb.
The recommended dosage for this pet CBD oil is as follows:
- 1.5 mg for dogs less than 15 lbs
- 3 mg for dogs 15-30 lbs
- 5 mg for dogs 30-60 lbs
- 10 mg for dogs over 60 lbs
Substitute for CBD Oil for Dogs
Administering CBD oil for dogs may not be as easy as you think. Your furry friend may not like the grassy and nutty flavour of the oil or CBD tincture. The same is true with humans. Not everyone wants to taste pure oil.
Fortunately, if humans have edibles, dogs and other pets can have dog treats and dog food infused with CBD. A CBD dog treat is the perfect way to administer the cannabinoid without forcing it into your dog's mouth.
To support your dog's joints and muscles, you can also apply sooking CBD topicals on the affected area. The cannabinoid will penetrate the skin and provide soothing pain relief. Topicals are especially helpful for old dogs who are suffering from chronic pain and joint issues.
Last Words
As pet owners, we love our dogs, cats, and other pets so much. If conventional medicine does not work, try dog CBD oil or CBD treats. Continuing research and anecdotal evidence show that CBD can help deal with your pet's pain, anxiety, appetite, mood, and the like.
If you are looking for the best CBD oil taken from full-spectrum hemp extract, check out our store right now!
