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    CBD oil for cats – When and how does it work?

    Author: Lucie Garabasova

    Cats are a popular pet around the world, and their health is very important to every owner. CBD is widely used today not only among humans and dogs but also among other animals. Find out how CBD works for cats.

    How does CBD work for cats?

    Due to its ability to influence the endocannabinoid system of mammals, CBD also works in the bodies of cats and can help address a variety of diseases and health problems. Just like in humans, CBD can help cats with epilepsy, reduce stress, improve coat and skin conditions, and more. Let’s take a look at the effects of CBD on cats:

    CBD may help cats with these health conditions:

    • Cancer
    • Inflammation
    • Chronic pain
    • Panic attacks
    • Arthritis
    • Increased stress
    • Sleep disorders
    • Epilepsy
    • Nausea
    • Diabetes
    • Allergies

    When can CBD be used for cats:

    Cancer

    What does CBD do, and how can it be helpful for cats with cancer? CBD can help cats minimize the side effects of treatment and also alleviate pain. Radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgery are the three most common treatments for cancer in cats. Below is a list of benefits that CBD can bring to cats undergoing oncology treatments:

    • Reducing inflammation
    • Relief from bone pain
    • Improved digestion
    • Relief from nausea
    • Pain reduction
    • Stress reduction
    • Relaxation for restless cats
    • Assistance with depression symptoms

    There are many studies that confirm that CBD can slow the growth of cancer cells. For example, in 2011, researchers at the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston, Massachusetts, studied the effects of CBD on breast cancer cells. In another 2011 study, scientists found that CBD reduces metastasis of cancer cells. The authors of the study stated that this is evidence of the anti-cancer effects of CBD products.

    Researchers also found that when the endocannabinoid system was activated through receptors in the skin, compounds caused cell death and slowed the growth of aggressive skin cancer. Other studies show that CBD may interfere with a process known as angiogenesis, which allows tumors to develop new blood vessels and supply nutrients to the tumor site.

    However, it should be noted that CBD does not act as a cancer treatment for cats. CBD will help your cat feel better during treatment and reduce the undesirable effects caused by the treatment.

    Epilepsy

    We already know that CBD is very effective for epilepsy in humans and dogs. This is mainly because cannabinoids are substances that can influence brain cells.

    Can CBD help with epilepsy in cats?

    Researchers found that 89% of nine dogs receiving CBD in a small study had a reduced frequency of seizures. According to Dr. Stephanie McGrath, who led the study, the results for future use of CBD in treating epilepsy in dogs and cats are promising. A correlation between CBD intake and reduced seizures in dogs was confirmed.

    Other studies showed that the endocannabinoid system is involved in regulating neurological activity in the brain and body by blocking the activity of certain neuronal channels. This suggests that CBD may help restore order in cases of disrupted electrical activity in the brain that causes seizures.

    Recent clinical studies on cannabidiol (CBD) for Dravet syndrome (DS) have proven its clinical efficacy in reducing the frequency of seizures and call for further exploration of its benefits for treating DS in animals.

    This makes CBD effective for the health of cats with epilepsy and holds great potential as an anticonvulsant.

    Inflammation – Arthritis

    Does your cat suffer from chronic pain or inflammation? We have good news for you! CBD oil reduces pain and inflammation in cats by blocking the vanilloid receptor, which regulates pain in cats and humans. This receptor stops sending pain signals through the body when inactive, and the pain begins to subside.

    CBD has been shown to be effective in reducing chronic pain. Some of the chronic painful issues that CBD oil can treat in cats and humans include arthritis and pancreatitis.

    CBD has become very popular in recent years, especially among patients with pain and inflammation. But how exactly?

    The main characteristic of pain is usually inflammation, which is where CBD can help. When cartilage in a joint wears down, it becomes affected, leading to chronic pain.

    CBD can help eliminate the inflammation that causes arthritis. When CBD enters the body, it interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), as mentioned above. The ECS is actively involved in many different bodily processes and plays a key role in triggering anti-inflammatory responses. Scientists currently believe that CBD triggers the body's natural anti-inflammatory responses by stimulating cannabinoid receptors that form the ECS. Studies also show that CBD can reduce inflammation in various parts of the body, including the intestines, stomach, and even the brain.

    Studies also show that CBD can actively fight the progression of arthritis. In 2000, scientists tested CBD on rodents suffering from arthritis and concluded that CBD blocked the progression of arthritis and protected joints from severe damage and chronic inflammation.

    Chronic Pain

    In addition to its anti-inflammatory properties, CBD is also known as an excellent pain reliever. According to studies, CBD and other cannabinoids can alleviate both physical and neuropathic pain. This is good news for cats with arthritis or other joint problems that significantly impact their overall quality of life.

    This makes CBD an interesting natural alternative for pain treatment. Therefore, if your cat suffers from arthritis or chronic joint pain, we recommend trying CBD drops.

    Diabetes

    At its core, diabetes is often caused by inflammatory problems that CBD effectively combats. A recent study states:

    “Oxidative stress and inflammation play a key role in the development of diabetes and its complications… Studies have provided compelling evidence that the newly discovered lipid signaling system (i.e., the endocannabinoid system) significantly increases reactive oxygen species production, inflammation, and subsequent tissue damage, which can affect its known metabolic effects and functions.”

    Another study found that using CBD in the form of oil reduces the risk of developing diabetes in mice with non-obese diabetes. Another study showed that CBD can also improve blood circulation and overall health in diabetic rats.

    Panic and Anxiety

    Many studies have been conducted on the calming effects of CBD. Some scientists believe that using CBD can cause a temporary increase in serotonin in the cat's brain. Serotonin is the main hormone that regulates mood, well-being, and happiness. An increase in serotonin levels may help improve a cat's mood.

    Currently, the potential use of CBD for feline anxiety is being researched.

    What Is CBD – Cannabidiol and How Can It Help Your Cat?

    To understand how cannabis works in the cat’s body, we first need to understand its active ingredients.

    Cannabidiol – CBD is one of more than 110 cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. It is non-psychoactive, so you don't have to worry about any intoxicating effects. Most cannabis plants contain both CBD and THC – the "brother" of cannabidiol. However, CBD products legally available contain less than 0.2% THC (the legally permitted amount) – such low levels are considered trace amounts, do not cause intoxication, and are well tolerated. This applies to humans, but THC is toxic to cats.

    Did you know that we are not the first human civilization to recognize and use cannabis for therapeutic purposes? In fact, it has been used for relief from various ailments for nearly 1000 years. Holistic doctors and veterinarians continue to explore many different ways cannabis oil with CBD can benefit both humans and animals. While most research has focused on humans, studies on CBD use in dogs and laboratory animals are expanding, and several organizations are beginning to study clinical evaluations for cats.

    The Endocannabinoid System in Cats

    CBD in cats acts on the endocannabinoid system. We have already analyzed in detail the human endocannabinoid system and its importance. Your furry friend also has this system, and unlike ours, it is more sensitive, but in general, it works similarly in humans, cats, and other animals. In fact, all mammals have an endocannabinoid system. So how does it work, and how does the cat’s body process CBD and cannabis?

    The endocannabinoid system in cats regulates an incredibly wide range of bodily functions:

    • Balance and coordination
    • Muscle movements
    • Reproductive systems
    • Activation and suppression of appetite
    • Digestive tract
    • Memory and cognitive abilities
    • Heart rate and blood pressure
    • The ability to feel pain and pleasure
    • Mood and mood stability
    • Reproductive processes
    • Brain development

    The endocannabinoid system (ECS) also consists of several other systems, namely the nervous system, gastrointestinal tract, and immune system. It helps maintain natural balance inside, despite external factors. The ECS contains cannabinoid receptors, which are activated by the body’s own cannabinoids—endocannabinoids that the body naturally produces. The ECS can also be modulated by phytocannabinoids—cannabinoids from plants.

    What are cannabinoid receptors?

    Cannabinoid receptors are located on the surface of cells and control conditions outside the cell. They transmit what they detect into the cell, which then triggers a corresponding cellular response.

    There are different types of cannabinoid receptors in the endocannabinoid system in cats, but two main ones are known as CB1 and CB2.

    1. CB1 Cannabinoid Receptors
      CB1 receptors are mainly located in the central nervous system. CB1 receptors are found in the spine and brain of your pets and around them. They play a large role in supporting regulation. From storing memories, suppressing hunger, to expressing mood and registering appetite. CB1 receptors are crucial for the overall functioning of cats.

    2. CB2 Cannabinoid Receptors
      CB2 receptors are mainly found in the immune system, although some are also located in the nervous system. Compared to CB1 receptors, CB2 receptors are the endocannabinoid receptors that are more involved in processing CBD oils. When your cat consumes food that contains even small amounts of CBD, CB2 receptors are activated, acting to immediately improve your cat’s immune system.

    Does CBD affect cats psychoactively?

    Simply put, NO. Cannabidiol itself is non-psychoactive and does not cause any changes in consciousness in humans or animals.

    Not only does CBD not affect your pet psychoactively, but it is also completely legal—there are approved veterinary products containing CBD.

    How to choose the best CBD oil for cats?

    Safe forms of CBD oil are those that do not contain THC. The ideal ones are so-called broad-spectrum oils containing a wide range of cannabinoids, including CBD.

    Most products come in a bottle with a dropper, allowing you to control the dosage, even down to one drop, which contains approximately 0.04 ml. The advantage is that you can introduce cannabidiol into your cat’s diet as slowly or quickly as you want.

    You can administer the oil to your cat orally directly into the mouth, or by adding a small amount to their favorite food or treats.

    Side Effects of using CBD in cats

    One of the advantages of CBD is that it has very few side effects. This is also why its use is so popular not only for humans but also for animals! :-)

    The side effects your cat may experience include:

    • Increased fatigue
    • Drowsiness
    • Reduced coordination of eyes and paws
    • Thirst and dry mouth
    • Diarrhea

    Side effects typically occur with a high dosage. It is recommended that both humans and cats always start with a small dose and gradually increase it. It is also essential to carefully monitor your cat's condition to ensure that no undesirable effects appear.

    In addition to dosage, it is also important to choose the right product. This is because there are many products on the market and in our range with different concentrations of CBD.

    Using CBD oil and dosage

    Dosage is highly individualized, as it may depend on many factors, such as weight, age, metabolism, genetics, etc. Therefore, as I have already mentioned, it is important to start with a small dose and gradually increase it.

    Overdosing on CBD is very unlikely because your cat’s body will simply excrete any unused CBD. However, when giving cannabis oil to your cat for the first time, it is best to start with smaller doses. This will allow you to find the ideal dose for your pet without "shocking" its body and without causing side effects.

     

    The key to dosing is finding a balance where the cat gets all the benefits without any side effects. If you observe any adverse effects after using CBD on your cat, stop using it and consult a veterinarian before continuing.

    ! You may need to gradually increase the dose over time to achieve the desired effects. Make any dosage changes slowly and gradually to allow the cat’s body to adapt. Keep in mind that you can always contact our specialists who will be happy to assist you. If you are unsure about the appropriate dosage, you can continue to the article: How to dose CBD for animals?

    An alternative is CBD drops intended for humans.

    Studies on CBD and administration to cats

    Most research focuses on the harmful effects of THC on animals rather than the positive effects of CBD. Recently, several studies have been conducted on the use of cannabis in dogs and cats, and all confirmed the mild toxicity of THC. The authors of a 2013 study from the Veterinary Hospital in Denver stated: "Although the drug itself is very safe, deaths have been recorded after ingestion of food with concentrated THC (medicinal extract)."

    However, a study by the Cornell University team on cannabidiol and arthritis in dogs helped deepen the understanding of cannabis effects on animals, and thus also on humans, especially regarding dosing and absorption. It seems that new studies, including ongoing research by ElleVet Sciences and Dr. Wakshlag, as well as researchers from Colorado State University, will continue to build on this trend of new discoveries.

    ElleVet is the only company that has conducted a long-term clinical and pharmacological study on cats. Other studies have primarily focused on the toxicity of cannabis that cats have accidentally ingested.

    ElleVet found that their cannabis blend helps cats, but Howland emphasizes that cats respond very differently to cannabis than dogs.

    "Cats are not small dogs," she says. "They have a significantly different metabolism. You cannot give them any pain medications used for dogs. Their livers simply can't handle it." If someone tries to help a sick cat with dog painkillers, "it can make them really sick. There are very few safe painkillers for cats. So we did a long safety study to confirm that cannabis products are safe for cats."

    They also found that when treating anxiety, cats respond better to cannabis medications than dogs. As with dogs, cats also showed reduced pain from arthritis and other diseases. However, reducing cannabis oil levels by half only takes two hours, meaning they require a much higher dose and more frequent administration than dogs of the same size.

    Although research on cats lags behind dogs, leading cannabis researchers are now seriously planning studies on cats. For example, ElleVet has an ongoing cat study on pain and another one testing whether cannabis helps reduce anxiety in cats with chronic urinary infections.

    However, although there are fewer studies so far, we do know that research into the correct dosage of CBD has primarily focused on humans rather than pets.

    The latest research on administering CBD to pets:

    • Wakshlag study with Cornell University: Pharmacokinetics, Safety, and Clinical Efficacy of Cannabidiol Treatment in Osteoarthritic Dogs
    • 2013 study on dog cannabis poisoning: Marijuana Poisoning
    • Samara E, Bialer M, Mechoulam R. Pharmacokinetics of cannabidiol in dogs. Drug Metab Dispos. (1988) 16:469–72. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2900742
    • Harvey DJ, Samara E, Mechoulam R. Comparative metabolism of cannabidiol in dog, rat and man. Pharmacol Biochem Behav. (1991) 40:523–32.

    Cannadorra offers an amazing variety of products

    Whether you want to give your cat CBD oil, CBD coconut oil to harmonize natural processes in the body, or just solve a small issue with classic cannabis oil, you can be sure that at Cannadorra, you won’t go wrong. If you choose the classic organic hemp oil, it can be flavored by adding fish oil, which cats really like. Also worth trying are CBG products, especially CBG drops.

    Cannadorra products are regularly tested, certified, and come from a local supplier.

    Discussion on CBD oil for cats

    Question – CBD dosing for cats:

    "Hello. I would like to get CBD oil for my cats. Can you please advise which one? Two of them are adults weighing around 5-6 kg. The third is 10 months old and weighs about 3.5 kg. Thank you very much and have a nice day."

    Answer – CBD dosing for cats:

    "Hello, and what do you want to use the CBD oil for? Is it to improve immunity, or do you have a specific health problem? If it's just for immunity, a 2% CBD oil would suffice, dosing 1-2 drops under the tongue twice a day. If you are dealing with a specific health issue, please contact us, and we can help you choose the right product."

     Question – Epilepsy in cats and CBD:
    "I would like to try CBD drops for my cat, who has epileptic seizures due to brain inflammation, where we have not been able to determine the cause despite all tests and cerebrospinal fluid sampling. She is a Maine Coon kitten, and I would like to ask which product I should give her. Currently, she is unfortunately on corticosteroids, and now antibiotics, as last week she had inflammation somewhere in her body and had 5 seizures in 3 hours. We also have anti-epileptic medication. I would like to try adding CBD drops and gradually reduce the corticosteroids. Thank you very much for your time and help. Gamorka is my breeding, I am a registered MCO breeder. She was a healthy kitten and then, out of nowhere, developed this condition, so we assume it's some autoimmune disorder since we can't find a cause."

    Answer – Epilepsy in cats and CBD:
    "Hello, thank you for the message. For your cat, I would recommend a 2% CBD oil, dosing 1 drop twice a day to start with... After 5 days, I would increase it to 2 drops twice a day, and we would monitor how your cat’s condition develops, adjusting the dosage accordingly."

     Question – Mental well-being of a cat:
    "Hello, I would like to order CBD drops for my 3-year-old male breeding cat. He is not eating much and would rather just mate. When separated from the female cats, he does not cope well. Could you advise which strength oil to buy? Could you send me a link? Thank you very much."

    Answer – Mental well-being of a cat:
    "Hello, I would recommend using a 2% CBD oil for animals – ideally, at least 1 drop a day. If there is no improvement within a few days, you can give 2 drops twice a day."

     Question – CBD for a cat after surgery:
    "Hello, I have a 1-year-old male cat (3.5 kg) after knee surgery. I wanted to ask if I can give him 10% CBD drops that I have for my dog."

    Answer – CBD for a cat after surgery:
    "Hello, you can definitely give the drops for animals, and I would recommend a 5% CBD oil. Start with 2 drops twice a day under the tongue or rubbed on the gums. The more you dose (3 drops or more), the stronger the analgesic effect will be. It will relieve pain but also calm the cat."

     Question – Difference between drops for dogs vs. cats:
    "Hello, I would like to ask about the composition of the drops, is it the same for cats and dogs? Which percentage would you recommend for a 11 kg cat and a 30 kg dog? And does the composition change depending on the diagnosis? Thank you very much."

    Answer – Difference between drops for dogs vs. cats:
    "Hello, it’s important that the product is approved as a veterinary preparation, so without THC. After that, there’s no difference for dogs and cats. For your cat, I would recommend a 5% CBD oil. For your 30 kg dog, it would be a 10% CBD oil. The dosage depends on whether you are looking to improve immunity or address a specific health problem."

     Question – Drops for an aggressive cat:
    "Good evening, I was advised to contact you about CBD drops for my cat, who has become aggressive towards a new incoming cat in certain situations. Until recently, they were friends, with minor disagreements, they could still play together with toys. But now, the younger one has a different idea of play, and the older one likes his routine and peace. He’s quite stressed, and we’re not sure what to do."

    Answer – Drops for an aggressive cat:
    "Hello, I would recommend trying 5% CBD oil for animals. It can calm the cat and reduce aggression. The dosage is quite individual, but I would suggest 2 drops twice a day under the tongue or rubbed on the gums. The more you dose, the more it will help with calming. It would be good if you could get back to us in 4 days to let us know how the cat is reacting, so we can adjust the dosage if needed."

     Question – Cat with atopic eczema:
    "Hello, I would like to buy CBD oil for my 3-year-old cat with atopic eczema, likely sensitivity to dust, causing itchy skin and subsequent skin irritation. What percentage oil would be best for this case? Thank you very much."

    Answer – Cat with atopic eczema:
    "Hello, I would need to know how much your cat weighs. Generally, I would recommend a 2% CBD oil for this type of issue. If your cat weighs over 4 kg, you can start with 1 drop twice a day. For cats with more severe conditions, I recommend using 5% CBD oil. In this case, I suggest starting with 2 drops twice a day."

    Question – Cat with arthritis:
    Hello, my cat is 15 years old. According to the vet, it seems to be arthritis in the hind legs. She has stopped walking and eating, probably due to pain. An injection helps for a few weeks, then the situation repeats. Blood test is normal. What oil would you recommend and what dosage? Thank you very much.

    Answer – Cat with arthritis:
    Hello, thank you for your question. I would definitely recommend a 5% CBD oil for animals, with a dosage of 1–2 drops 3 times a day. I would also recommend physiotherapy, as it is very beneficial for joint problems.

    Question – CBD for a cat with a psychological issue:
    Hello, we have a cat who had a tooth extraction, and her mouth has healed beautifully. However, she still won’t eat. The doctor thinks it’s because, even though there is no longer any pain, she had to live with the pain for a long time (the tooth was basically decayed in the gum), and now it’s more of a psychological issue. Can CBD help us? Do you have experience with this? Thank you.

    Answer – CBD for a cat with a psychological issue:
    Hello, I would definitely recommend CBD. I don’t have direct experience with this exact case, but CBD helps with both pain and psychological well-being, so I would 100% give it a try! Specifically, 2% or 5% CBD oil for animals. Besides dropping it directly into her mouth, I would also recommend rubbing it on her gums, as this is also done for small children when they are teething.

    Question – Cat and moving:
    Hello, I have a cat who gets very stressed, and it has affected his health. We are moving, and I would like to find a way to calm him down. What dosage would you recommend? He is a mixed breed and weighs 5 kg. Thank you!

    Answer – Cat and moving:
    Hello, I would recommend a 2% CBD oil and try dosing 2 drops twice a day. The best method is to put the drops directly in his mouth. If that doesn’t work, you can rub it on the tip of his ear and spread it out.

    Question – Traveling with CBD for a cat:
    Hello, we have a long car trip ahead with our 8-year-old cat. She doesn’t handle travel very well and gets stressed. I would like to try one of your products. Which one would you recommend, and what is the best dosage?

    Answer – Traveling with CBD for a cat:
    Hello, CBD also helps with motion sickness, so I would definitely recommend trying it—5% CBD oil would be a good choice. Ideally, give about 2 drops daily, and I would increase the dosage to 3 or 4 drops a day if you're preparing for the car trip. Alternatively, you can give 2 drops about 30 minutes before the trip, regardless of the daily dosage. You can either put the drops directly in her mouth or rub them on the tip of her ear.