As a veterinarian, I’m often asked about the use of CBD oil for pets. With its growing popularity, it’s important to address this topic from a clinical standpoint, focusing on safety, efficacy, and best practices.

What is CBD Oil?

CBD (cannabidiol) is one of over 100 cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. It’s extracted from hemp and has gained attention for its potential therapeutic effects without the psychoactive properties associated with THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). This makes it appealing for use in animals, as pet owners seek natural alternatives for health management.

Cats are great companion animals. They are small, require much less space and care than a dog as they are good at taking care of themselves. They regularly clean and groom themselves and therefore are not messy pets. They can be fun to look at while they play which can be a mood enhancer for many cat parents and lovers. These pets can help to relieve stress and have been found to be therapeutic too for patients suffering from depression or loss of a close relative as they show their affection by welcoming their owners after a long day at work. Due to their role in reducing anxiety, cat owners are found to have a more sound sleep.

To one’s surprise, a 10-yearlong study comparing cat owners and non- owners revealed that cat owners are 30% less prone to cardiac ailments such as stroke or heart attack. Having pets makes owners more likely to follow a routine as they require everything from food to play time at the same time every day.