Obviously, as a cat owner, you want the best for your feline friend and are dedicated to supporting their overall wellness. In your journey to aid in your cat’s nutrition, you may have heard about the rise in popularity of cat CBD, cannabidiol products derived from hemp plants that are known to alleviate feelings of bodily stress and encourage a calm mental state. While CBD products are incredibly common for humans, you might wonder how CBD can affect cats before giving some to your kitty companion. We’re here to break down the pros and cons of providing cats CBD, so you can feel confident in helping your cat live its healthiest, happiest life.
What is CBD?
CBD, AKA cannabidiol, is a compound produced by the hemp plant cannabis. While cannabis also contains THC, the psychoactive substance known for creating the mind-altering effects of marijuana, CBD does not trigger the same mental effects. As federal law requires, all CBD products must contain no more than 0.3% THC.
CBD works with the body’s existing endocannabinoid system, an essential facet of the central nervous system. CBD connects with the endocannabinoid system through cannabinoid receptors. There are two types of cannabinoid receptors:
C1: While present throughout the entirety of the body, most C1 receptors are centered in the brain. C1 receptors affect our mental processes, controlling things like emotion, movement, feelings, hunger cues, memory, and other cognitive functions.
C2: C2 receptors are vital to our immune system. They help control fluctuations in pain and inflammation, especially in the case of chronic conditions.
When CBD attaches to both types of cannabinoid receptors, it works to alleviate stress in the mind and pain and inflammation throughout the body. Believe it or not, CBD functions the same way in cats as in humans and can provide similar health benefits.
A Purr-fect Supplement
Just as it provides positive health benefits for humans, CBD can do a great deal for the wellness of cats. Cat CBD can aid in a variety of factors, including:
Behavioral Management
Have a kitty who has a bit of a temper around others? Or perhaps your furry friend gets nippy when you have pals over, infringing on their precious couch snuggle time with you? Like us, cats have a variety of emotions they feel compelled to express, and sometimes they can get overwhelmed. If you notice that your cat is acting out, adding a form of CBD to their daily routine could help alleviate the mental stress causing their bad behavior. CBD is also great for timid cats, who may be easily overwhelmed by external forms of stimuli. With the help of a bit of CBD, they’ll be able to make their way from constantly hiding under the couch to sitting on it with you while you binge your favorite reality tv shows.
Supports Healthy Joints
CBD oil is known to decrease inflammation and pain, particularly in the body’s joints. Like any healthy cats, their joints can be subject to wear and tear, just like us humans. So if you notice your cat is less spry than usual, try giving it a dose of CBD to reduce muscle aches.
Soothe Tummy Troubles
Is your cat prone to an upset stomach or often have accidents when stressed? CBD can help! Just as it soothes the joints, CBD works to calm the stomach lining and aid in better digestion in cats who may have trouble with food.
Other Factors to Consider
Like any supplement, CBD can induce side effects in rare cases. The most common adverse side effects include nausea, sleepiness, lethargy, and mood changes. If you notice your cat exhibiting these symptoms, CBD supplements may not be suitable for them.
Additionally, it’s essential to talk to your cat’s veterinarian before starting any supplement form and be aware of how it may interact with any medications they’re currently on. While supplements can aid your cat’s wellness, routine veterinary care is paramount to your furry friend’s continued health.
To Meow it All Up…
CBD is a great all-natural supplement that you can add to your cat’s routine to support their healthy lifestyle. From helping to manage stress and behavioral changes, soothing joint pain, and aiding in digestive distress, cat CBD can provide various benefits to your pet. So whether your cat is more a fan of edible treats or a few drops of CBD oil tincture before bed, there are various ways to help your furry friend enjoy CBD.
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