CBD for pets: When and how to use it?
More and more pet owners are interested in natural alternatives to support their animals' health. One substance that has gained increasing importance in recent years is CBD (cannabidiol) . Originally developed for humans, it is now also used in dogs, cats, and other pets . But when is CBD beneficial, how exactly does it work, and what should you consider when using it?
In this article, we will cover all the important aspects of CBD for pets – with a special focus on CBD for dogs , CBD for cats and natural pet health .
What is CBD?
CBD (cannabidiol) is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid derived from the hemp plant (Cannabis sativa). Unlike THC, CBD doesn't get you high, but it has proven calming, anti-inflammatory, and pain-relieving properties. CBD is already widely used in humans – now pet owners are also discovering its benefits for their pets.
Why CBD for pets?
Animals—just like humans—have what's known as an endocannabinoid system (ECS) . This system regulates many physiological processes, such as:
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Mood
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Pain sensation
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appetite
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immune system
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Sleep
CBD interacts with this system and can thus contribute to the natural regulation and support of various bodily functions.
🐶 CBD for dogs: When is it useful?
Dogs can benefit from CBD in many ways. Common uses include:
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Anxiety and stress (e.g. during thunderstorms, fireworks, separation)
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Osteoarthritis and joint pain
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epilepsy
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Skin problems and allergies
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Inflammations
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Loss of appetite
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Digestive problems
📝 Example:
An older dog with arthritis can experience noticeable relief from pain and become more mobile again through CBD oil .
🐱 CBD for cats: Particularly sensitive, but effective
Cats are somewhat more sensitive to CBD than dogs. However, there are many situations in which CBD can be very helpful for cats :
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Fear and anxiety (e.g. when moving or visiting the vet)
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Chronic pain
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Urinary tract problems
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epilepsy
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Loss of appetite
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Behavioral disorders
Important: CBD products containing terpenes should not be used on cats, as certain terpenes can be toxic to them. There are special CBD oils for cats that are free of these substances.
✅ How is CBD used in animals?
1. Dosage
The correct dosage is crucial. As a rule of thumb,
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Small animals (under 10 kg) : 1–2 mg CBD per day
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Medium animals (10–25 kg) : 2–5 mg CBD per day
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Large animals (25 kg and more) : 5–10 mg CBD per day
It is best to start with a low dose and increase it slowly, depending on the animal's response.
2. Dosage form
CBD for animals is available as:
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Oil (drops) – usually directly into the mouth or into the food
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Treats – especially useful for dogs
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Capsules – good for precise dosing
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Balm – for skin problems
3. Quality of the product
Always choose:
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Products with certified quality
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THC-free products (less than 0.2%)
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CBD products specially developed for animals
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Organically certified and laboratory tested
⚠️ Are there any side effects?
CBD is generally considered very safe for animals. Possible side effects may occur if the dosage is too high, such as:
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fatigue
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Diarrhea
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Change in appetite
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Mild dizziness
Therefore: Always start slowly and observe the animal’s reaction.
🌿 Natural animal health with CBD: Conclusion
CBD can be a valuable component of natural animal health , especially in cases of chronic conditions, behavioral problems, or stressful situations. The prerequisite is the use of high-quality, animal-friendly products and individualized dosage.
Whether CBD for dogs with joint pain or CBD for cats with anxiety—the options are diverse. More and more veterinarians are recognizing the benefits of CBD and recommending it alongside conventional veterinary medicine.
🐾 Final tips for pet owners
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If in doubt, always consult a veterinary expert before giving CBD.
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Keep a CBD diary (dosage, effects, side effects).
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Combine CBD with species-appropriate nutrition , exercise and love – for an all-round healthy animal life.
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