As cannabis legalization becomes more widespread, it stands to reason that cannabis products will become increasingly ubiquitous. Many people are aware of CBD and its growing popularity, but even some CBD enthusiasts aren’t aware of the fact that there are a variety of pet CBD products on the market now. These developments can be a concern for pet owners who don’t know whether or not pets should have access to cannabis products or what their effects are. If you want to learn more, keep reading to find out exactly how different cannabis products may affect pets.
How can different cannabis products affect pets?
You can find CBD products designed for cats, dogs, and even horses, though CBD for dogs is by far the most widely used of the three. Many pet owners see CBD as a great natural addition to their pet’s wellness routine. CBD oil and CBD chews are the two most popular formulations of pet CBD. It’s important to know that CBD products don’t produce the psychoactive high associated with the marijuana plant, as they’re prohibited from containing more than trace amounts of THC.
Most of the information we have to go off regarding how CBD can affect pets is anecdotal, as further research is needed to determine what precise effects or benefits it may provide. Clinical trials have been focused primarily on use in humans rather than pets, but there is some early research with promising results. One study indicated that the use of CBD in osteoarthritic dogs may provide benefits. In the study, dogs who were given CBD had less discomfort and improved mobility.
When it comes to marijuana products, they should be avoided at all costs, as they are toxic to pets. You might be wondering what to do if your dog or cat accidentally ingests marijuana. If you notice the issue within 15 minutes of consumption, try using hydrogen peroxide to induce vomiting. Otherwise, your best bet is to take your furry friend to the vet as soon as you can. You may want to visit the vet even if your dog does throw up at home, just to make sure there’s nothing wrong.
What is CBD, and what do we know about it?
CBD is short for cannabidiol, which is one of the many cannabinoids found in cannabis plants. Hemp and hemp plant derivatives like cannabidiol were legalized for sale on a federal level in the United States through the 2018 Farm Bill. Since then, the legal market has grown exponentially, and experts project that this growth will continue for the foreseeable future. Now, you can find CBD infused into products ranging from cosmetics to coffee. The additional competition will likely continue to drive innovation in the industry for years to come.
If you plan to use CBD products for your pet, consult your veterinarian before making any changes to their daily routine. Your vet can explain how CBD is likely to impact any health conditions your pet has or interact with prescription medications they’re currently taking. Your vet may be able to tell you more about products and proper dosage if they’re well informed about CBD products.
There’s still a lot more to learn about CBD, specifically with regard to its use in pets. However, every pet owner should know that marijuana products are toxic for their furry friends, and the safest thing to do if they’ve accidentally consumed marijuana is to take them straight to the vet. Inducing vomiting at home is another option, but it’s still a good idea to visit the vet just in case. When used responsibly, CBD can be beneficial, but it’s still smart to discuss it with your vet first.