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FR Effect and Benefits of CBD Products for Dogs and Cats
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By
Dr. med. vet. Sabina Büttner - Jun 9, 2020
Hemp products are touted as miracle remedies for all sorts of illnesses and ailments. How do they work, and what are their true Benefits?
What is CBD?
CBD is the abbreviation for Cannabidiol – a plant compound extracted from the hemp plant. Unlike Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), another active compound in hemp, it has no psychoactive or intoxicating effect.
How does CBD work?
Cannabidiol primarily acts through the so-called endocannabinoid system. This is a complex network of receptors in the body of mammals, linked to the most important organs, the immune system, and the nervous system. Its main task is to maintain the body's internal balance.
Among other things, it is involved in the regulation of:
- Pain sensations
- Immune responses
- Moods and emotions
- Memory and cognition
- Reproduction and growth
- Inflammation
- Protection of the nervous system
- Appetite
- Sleep
- Anxiety
CBD also interacts with other receptors and enzymes in the body, which makes its use possible for many different issues.
When are CBD products used for pets?
Numerous studies have shown a positive effect of CBD products on various problems. For animals, they are used particularly for anxiety, pain relief, or to reduce inflammation. CBD products can also help pets become calmer and more balanced in cases of age-related confusion.
What side effects does CBD have?
CBD products are very well tolerated and show no side effects when correctly dosed. If excessively high doses are administered, it can lead to drowsiness and diarrhea.
What is the Entourage Effect?
In connection with CBD products, the so-called Entourage Effect is often discussed. In addition to CBD and THC, the hemp plant contains other cannabinoids and plant compounds, such as terpenes or flavonoids. Each hemp strain contains a unique composition of plant compounds that mutually influence each other's effects. Overall, the effect of CBD can be enhanced by other plant compounds, which is generally referred to as the 'Entourage Effect'.
What distinguishes CBD hemp from drug hemp?
In CBD hemp, the intoxicating THC is only present in small amounts. THC differs significantly from CBD in its effect and also acts through different receptors. Dogs have a very large number of 'THC receptors' and are therefore very sensitive to THC, which is why it is important that they only receive CBD hemp products with less than 0.2% THC.
How can CBD be used?
Depending on the purpose for which the CBD product is to be used, there are various forms of administration.
CBD Oils are often used when it comes to strengthening the general well-being of animals, reducing anxiety or confusion, or alleviating pain. The oils are available in various CBD concentrations and flavors. Administration is usually simple (directly into the mouth or over food), and the dosage can be easily adjusted to the animal's size and the desired effect.
Granules: Hemp extracts are also available in granule form. The granules are absorbed very quickly by the oral mucous membrane, ensuring higher and faster bioavailability.
Hemp Powder: Ground hemp in powder form contains valuable fatty acids and natural Dietary fibres. It is ideal for BARF feeding. Mixed with other medicinal plants, such powders can contribute to supporting the gastrointestinal tract or joint health.
Snacks/Chews: Various CBD snacks and chews are available, which are combined with various other active ingredients depending on the indication. Depending on the product, they can have a calming effect or support joint health. To avoid over- or under-dosing, the feeding recommendation for snacks must also be strictly followed, and it must be prevented that animals accidentally consume too much of them.
Ointment: Hemp oil is offered as a balm for external use, combined with various fats and oils. It has a calming effect and moisturizes the treated areas and is particularly suitable for small-area inflammations or irritations.
How long should CBD products be used?
Every animal reacts differently quickly to cannabinoids. It can take up to a week for the first effects to become noticeable. It can take up to 5 weeks for the full effect to set in. The treatment should therefore last at least 5 weeks and can be continued as long as the desired effect is to be maintained.
Useful information at a glance
What is CBD and how does it work for dogs and cats?
CBD stands for Cannabidiol, an active ingredient from the hemp plant that has no psychoactive effect. It works via the endocannabinoid system, a network of receptors in the body of mammals that is involved in regulating pain sensations, immune responses, and moods, among other things. In animals, CBD can be used to alleviate anxiety, pain, and inflammation.
What side effects can occur when using CBD products?
CBD products are generally well-tolerated. However, if the dosage is too high, drowsiness and diarrhea may occur. It is important to follow the dosage recommendations precisely to avoid side effects.
How does CBD hemp differ from drug hemp?
CBD hemp contains only small amounts of THC, the psychoactive ingredient of the hemp plant. Dogs are very sensitive to THC, which is why they should only receive CBD products with less than 0.2% THC to avoid undesirable effects.
What forms of CBD are available for animals and how are they administered?
CBD products for animals come in various forms: oils, granules, powders, snacks, and ointments. Oils are often administered directly into the mouth or over food. Granules offer rapid absorption through the oral mucosa. Powders can be used to support the gastrointestinal tract or joint health. Snacks are practical for daily administration, while ointments are used for external application in cases of inflammation.
How long should CBD products be used in animals?
The effect of CBD can vary individually. Initial effects may be visible after one week, while the full effect can take up to 5 weeks. Treatment should last at least 5 weeks and can be continued as long as the desired effect persists.
