The Truth About CBD for Animals (and What Vets Say)
Cannabidiol (CBD) is quickly resting as a supplement for companion animals. Owner’s movement toward natural alternatives is often to address conditions that are difficult to manage such as anxiety and arthritis.
Current veterinary literature indicates that CBD has some potential use in managing pain, inflammation, seizures, and anxiety and it has biological plausibility related to the endocannabinoid system (which is expressed in mammals including dogs, cats, and horses). The endocannabinoid system is a complex cell-signaling system that is involved in the control of many biological systems including pain, the immune system, and mood.
Studies in the area of veterinary medicine concerning the use of CBD
One of the most rigorous scientific studies was conducted at Cornell University, researchers investigated the use of CBD oil in dogs suffering from osteoarthritis. The researchers found CBD oil to reduce pain and improve activity levels in dogs with osteoarthritis.
The researchers at Colorado State University recently published research on the use of CBD in both dogs and cats consciously looked at seizure frequency in epileptic dogs. Their findings about dogs found exciting outcomes based on the use of CBD to reduce seizure frequency. Scientists do need more time to formally study CBD in animal populations but the findings of these studies makes them interested in what can be discovered.
Risks and benefits of using CBD
Inconsistent CBD products is a concern when CBD products either contain little to no CBD or a THC (the psychoactive component of cannabis) concentration that can harm animals. Dogs in particular have more cannabinoid receptors than humans, making them more sensitive to the effects of THC. The possible drug interactions represent a second area of concern. CBD can affect the liver enzymes that metabolize many medications used, potentially making concurrent treatments less effective or even less safe. Pets would be at higher risk for this with pre-existing liver problems or when taking multiple medications.
The legal ambiguity adds complications for veterinarians. While the 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp-derived CBD federally, state veterinary medical boards are also able to regulate the profession with varying degrees of ability to permit veterinarians to prescribe or recommend CBD products. Quality control is the most important, as quality products should have independent labs provide certificates of analysis validating CBD content and contaminants (pesticides, heavy metals, and harmful microorganisms) that are absent from the product.
Existing products formulated specifically for veterinary patients will generally have more relevant dosing than those made for human use. The safest way to begin treatment would be with the least amount of CBD and then carefully titrate up to response while keeping track of adverse effects. Typical adverse effects of CBD in dogs after administration include sleepiness, dry mouth (this is usually noted by increased thirst), decreased blood pressure, and sometimes gastrointestinal upset (typically diarrhea). More concerning effects can happen; however, they are not common for the most part, requiring attention from a veterinary professional as soon as possible.
Some species of animals have more risks associated with using CBD. For example, animals with liver disease may not metabolize CBD. There are no studies that can substantiate the safety of CBD for pregnant or nursing claims. Puppies and kittens whose nervous systems are still developing represent another situation where caution may be warranted.
The future of veterinary CBD
With the increasing research into CBD, veterinary organizations are continuing to push for a clear regulatory path that will make it safer and easier to incorporate cannabis-derived products into veterinary medicine.