Cannabis for Pets: A Guide to CBD Products for Animals

As CBD (cannabidiol) continues to make waves in the wellness world for humans, pet owners are naturally asking: "Could this work for my furry friend too?" Spoiler alert: It just might! CBD products for pets are quickly becoming a popular topic among veterinarians and pet owners alike, with potential benefits ranging from pain relief to easing anxiety. But before you dive into the CBD craze for your pet, there are a few things to know about its benefits, legalities, and how it all works.

What Exactly is CBD?

CBD is a naturally occurring compound found in the cannabis plant. Now, don't panic—this isn’t the psychoactive stuff that gets people "high." That’s THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), and it’s completely different. 

Most CBD products you see are derived from hemp, which contains little to no THC, so there’s no risk of your dog or cat becoming stoned!

In simple terms, CBD is all about relaxation and relief without the intoxication. This is why it’s being looked at more and more as a therapeutic option for pets. 

You’ll find CBD in various forms for pets: oils, tinctures, treats, and even infused peanut butter (because who doesn’t love peanut butter?).

Is CBD Safe for Pets?

In a word: Yes. Numerous vets have started recommending CBD for pain management, especially for dogs with chronic arthritis, as it seems to make their lives more comfortable. 

There’s also early research suggesting it could reduce the intensity and frequency of seizures in pets, among other benefits like easing anxiety or gastrointestinal issues.

That said, it’s important to keep your expectations in check. CBD is not a magic cure-all. While it may help manage your pet’s discomfort or stress, it won’t cure serious illnesses. 

Also, jumping straight to CBD for pain relief could mask underlying health problems, so always consult with your vet first.

Why Are Pet Owners Turning to CBD?

Most pet owners are drawn to CBD for the same reasons people use it: pain relief, relaxation, and anxiety reduction. If your pet struggles with anxiety (hello, fireworks!), chronic pain, or other health issues, CBD might be worth exploring.

CBD works by interacting with your pet’s endocannabinoid system, which helps regulate bodily functions like sleep, mood, and pain. Since it’s metabolised differently in pets than in humans, it’s critical to use the right dosage, which is where your vet comes in.

Legal Considerations: What’s the Deal with CBD for Pets?

Here’s where things get a little tricky. CBD for pets isn’t exactly a free-for-all. In the UK, the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) classifies CBD as a veterinary medicine, meaning it needs to be strictly regulated. 

That means, unfortunately, you won’t find CBD pet products legally sold in the UK. So, if you stumble across a “CBD for pets” product online or in stores, it’s likely being sold illegally.

But don’t worry! Vets can prescribe human-grade CBD products for pets, like oils, under certain conditions. Just make sure you’re following their recommendations to the letter to ensure your pet's safety.

Pet CBD vs. Human CBD: Is There a Difference?

Technically, not really. The CBD your vet might prescribe for your dog is probably the same CBD oil you’d take yourself. What’s important, though, is that it’s 0% THC, since even small amounts of THC can be harmful to pets. That’s why most prescribed products will be CBD isolate or broad-spectrum CBD, both of which contain no THC.

Things to Keep in Mind

While CBD has been found to have a pretty good safety profile in pets, it can interact with medications, just like it does in humans. CBD is metabolised by the same enzyme that breaks down many common drugs, which means if your pet is on medication, CBD could affect how it’s processed. Always chat with your vet before starting your pet on CBD to avoid any nasty surprises.