How CBD oil can benefit cats
As caring pet owners, we’re always searching for ways to improve the health and happiness of our furry friends. CBD is starting to emerge as a popular natural remedy for pets, often praised for its potential to alleviate anxiety, manage pain, and support overall wellbeing. While much of the focus is on dogs, many cat owners are asking: Can CBD oil benefit my cat?
The good news is CBD oil has shown significant promise in addressing a wide range of health conditions in cats. However, it’s vital to use it responsibly and under the guidance of your veterinarian to ensure your cat's safety and wellbeing.
Interestingly, CBD appears to be absorbed and processed differently in cats compared to dogs. In this article, we’ll explore the potential benefits of CBD for felines, supported by the latest research papers, and provide guidance on how to administer CBD oil to your cat.
What is CBD?
CBD is a compound which occurs naturally in the cannabis plant. Unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the intoxicating compound found in cannabis, CBD does not cause a “high.” Instead, it offers a range of beneficial medicinal properties by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which helps regulate key physiological functions, including mood, appetite, pain, and inflammation.
Safety and side effects of CBD in cats
CBD oil is a natural, plant-derived compound that is generally considered safe and well tolerated in cats. Most side effects that occur are mild, transient and do not require medical attention.
During CBD administration (at a dose of 2 mg/kg twice daily for 12 weeks) in this 2019 study, cats showed the following side effects: excessive licking, head-shaking, and less commonly, pacing, chomping, gagging and vomiting.
This 2024 blinded, randomised, placebo-controlled study tested how cats tolerate CBD long-term. The cats were given (THC-free) CBD, at a dose of 4 mg/kg once daily for six months. It was found that the CBD was well tolerated by the cats. However, there was an increase in the liver enzyme, ALT, in the CBD treatment group.
This 2021 study examined the safety and tolerability of CBD oils in 20 healthy cats. The oils tested were a CBD-predominant oil, a THC-predominant oil and a CBD/THC-predominant oil. The results highlighted that increasing doses of cannabis oils were generally well tolerated by the healthy cats, leading only to mild, short-lived adverse effects. No significant changes were observed in the cats’ blood tests, including liver enzymes. Interestingly, the study noted that gastrointestinal upset was more common with formulations containing MCT oil, which is the most commonly used carrier oil for CBD. At Kindred, we provide the option of alternative carrier oils which your cat may prefer.
In all pets, side effects are more common with cannabis products that contain THC. In this case report (2023), where a cat was given CBD and THC as pain relief for osteoarthritis, sedation and ataxia (loss of balance) was reported. When the dose was reduced these side effects resolved.
As seen above, CBD oil may sometimes increase liver enzymes—usually ALT (alanine aminotransferase) in cats. Therefore, it is important for your vet to monitor your cat’s bloods before and throughout CBD treatment. This also means that CBD may not be suitable for your pet if they have liver issues.
What the research says
When used under the guidance of a veterinarian, CBD oil may offer several health benefits for cats.
Anxiety relief
Cats are sensitive creatures, and they can suffer from anxiety or stress for various reasons, like changes in their environment, separation from their owner, or loud noises. CBD has an effect on serotonin receptors, reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation.This 2024 study tested how CBD helps cats suffering from separation anxiety. After the brief separation from their caregivers, the cats became distressed. With CBD administration, they became more secure upon separation. The results appear to be similar to anxiety-reducing effects of CBD that have been reported in humans.
Pain and inflammation management
Senior cats or those with inflammatory conditions like arthritis may benefit from the analgesic (pain-relieving) and anti-inflammatory properties of CBD oil. Research indicates that CBD can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation, which may enhance mobility and quality of life for cats suffering from chronic discomfort.This study (2023) reviewed the role of cannabinoids in pain modulation in pets. It concludes that according to some clinical trials, CBD has potential for use as an analgesic drug for chronic pain control in pets.
This study (2023) examined full spectrum CBD oil as analgesic therapy in a cat with chronic pain from osteoarthritis. It reported a satisfactory outcome for the cat and the pet owner, suggesting that CBD medications could be a therapeutic alternative for cats with osteoarthritis. However, further research is needed as there was only one cat monitored in this study.
This study (2021) examined how CBD can reduce pain and inflammation in feline chronic gingivostomatitis (FCGS), which involves a painful infection of the gums and oral cavity in cats. The results suggest that CBD shows potential as an effective aid in managing this condition.
Supporting appetite and digestive health
Cats can lose their appetite for various reasons, including illness, stress, or nausea from medications including chemotherapy. CBD oil may stimulate a cat’s appetite, reduce nausea, and support digestive health by interacting with receptors in the endocannabinoid system.Promoting general wellness
CBD oil may help support a cat’s overall health and wellness as CBD has strong antioxidant properties that can boost the immune system. Additionally, many pet owners report improvements in their cat’s coat and skin when using CBD oil.
How CBD oil is prescribed
If appropriate for your cat, your vet should prescribe a high quality, pet-specific CBD oil that meets strict safety standards. A reliable CBD product will be tested by an independent laboratory to verify the potency of the active ingredients, and to confirm that it contains no harmful additives, pesticides, or heavy metals. You can rest assured that Kindred CBD products meet these rigorous standards—we take quality seriously.
Your veterinarian will provide instructions on how much CBD oil to give your cat and how often. The dosage will depend on your cat’s weight, age, and the condition being treated. In most cases, vets will prescribe a low dose to start, then gradually increase it, while monitoring your cat for any adverse reactions.
How to give your cat CBD oil
CBD oil is given by mouth and can be mixed into your cat’s food or given directly into their mouth using a syringe. Since cats are notorious for spitting up medications, mixing the oil with their food is usually the best approach. Not only does this make it easier for your cat to ingest, but it also enhances the absorption.
At Kindred, we offer flavouring as an option to enhance the taste of the CBD oil. Always give the dose that was prescribed by your vet, monitor your cat’s progress, and keep your vet informed.
Conclusion
CBD oil holds promise as a natural therapy to improve the health and wellbeing of cats. Whether it’s for anxiety, pain management, or general wellness, working closely with your vet ensures that your cat receives the right product, dose, and care.
Why not explore how CBD oil could help your feline friend live a happier, healthier life?
