If you’re like most pet parents, you do everything you can to ensure the health and happiness of your beloved pet.  You love your pet and consider them a part of the family, so it makes sense you want to give them the best life possible. So, if your pet deals with issues like anxiety, pain, or other health issues, you’re probably looking for ways to provide relief.  One option is CBD. You’ve likely heard of CBD products for humans, but did you know there are also CBD products for your furry friends? If you’re looking for help with issues like pain and insomnia, CBD could be the answer.  Learn about the validity of CBD for pets and some options in this guide. 

Is CBD Safe For Pets? 

The answer to this question is complex. While there do not seem to be any significant side effects, there also haven’t been many studies done on the impacts of CBD on dogs or cats. This means there isn’t much information on dosing, so when you use CBD products for your pets, do so with a grain of salt.  While CBD in small amounts is unlikely to cause harm, you’ll want to look for products that don’t contain many other ingredients, especially ones that could be harmful to pets. It’s likely unwise to use CBD for small animals. If you are going to use CBD products for a pet, most products are explicitly meant for cats and dogs – not for rodents, reptiles, or other pets. Generally, these pets are more sensitive, and finding a vet who specializes in their care can also be harder. 

The Importance Of Consulting Your Vet

If your dog or cat is having health problems, the best thing to do is schedule a visit with an experienced veterinarian. Most likely, you already have a vet or have taken your pet to one before. So, if you have questions about CBD products, ask your vet for advice.  Depending on the state, CBD products might be less available, and products derived from hemp are likely easier to find and less regulated.

What Can CBD Do For Pets?

The benefits of CBD are still being studied in humans, so it’s hard to give definitive answers on what CBD can do for pets. So, while research is still in the early stages, some pet owners have anecdotal evidence that CBD has helped their dog or cat with problems such as pain, inflammation, insomnia, and anxiety. 

How To Find The Right CBD Products For Your Pet

When trying to find CBD products for your pet, you might be overwhelmed by the number of options out there. Overall, it’s best to be cautious about what you use for your pet.  While most CBD products are reasonably safe, you should watch for potential side effects, such as drowsiness and dry mouth. If you notice more severe symptoms, call your vet right away.  When looking for products, look at the entire ingredient list, and do some research to be sure these other additives are safe for your pet. Some vets recommend choosing CBD products that come in oil or tincture form, as these can be easier to dose than treats with CBD.