Cat CBD Dosage Chart

Cats have smaller bodies than dogs and humans, making it very important to give them a size-appropriate dose of CBD.

The Waltham Petcare Science Institute conducted a 6-month study into the tolerability of CBD in cats.

The study found that "healthy cats tolerate long-term daily feeding of cannabidiol [CBD]." One of their key takeaways was that long-term daily CBD dosing at 4mg/kg of a cat's body weight is safe for healthy cats.

In terms of a cat's body weight in pounds, that means that 1.81 mg CBD per pound of body weight, per day, is technically safe.

As an example, if your cat weighs 10 pounds:

• The maximum amount of CBD you can give them safely in one day is 18mg.

• You should not start with that dosage.

• Start with a small dosage and work your way up.

Start by Giving your cat 1mg of CBD per 5 pounds of body weight, twice daily.

Start Small, Work Your Way Up

This small dosage is a perfect place to begin because it allows you to assess the effect that CBD has on your cat. Some cats might not respond as well to CBD oil, so starting small is the safest bet.

If your cat shows negative side effects from the oil, stop giving your cat CBD and consult with your veterinarian on the next steps. It could be that the oil you're using isn't formulated for cats, or it was crafted with additional ingredients that don't agree with your cat's system.

When Should You Increase Your Cat's Dosage?

CBD oil can take a little time to take effect.

You might not notice results within the first few days. If you haven't seen results after 10 days of regular dosing, add 1mg to each daily dose of CBD oil. Only do this if your cat responds well to the oil and hasn't had any negative side effects.

Complete another 10-day cycle, and increase again by 1mg per dose.

Always ensure that you're not giving your cat more than 1.8mg per pound of body weight per day. After the third cycle, you can continue giving your cat the same dosage and wait for results to show.

If you finish your first bottle of oil without results, there's a chance your cat won't see any benefits from CBD. It can take a period of 6 months or more for CBD to reach peak levels in the blood and contribute to the most beneficial results, although early signs of improvement should show before then.

Does Cat CBD Oil Work?

CBD oil works for many cats experiencing issues that CBD can support. Just because a cat is experiencing related issues, however, doesn't mean that they'll benefit from CBD oil.

Some cats have issues that are more significant than others, and regular CBD doses may not be able to provide any measurable results in these cases. This is the case for most medications, supplements, and natural options for people and pets.

It will work for some but not for others. Fortunately, the majority of cats who have used Lolahemp products have seen a result in the first few weeks. Lolahemp has a 90-day money back guarantee, giving pet owners a long enough period of time to try the product and get their money back if it doesn't work.

Shop Lolahemp CBD Oil for Cats Here.

Cat CBD Oil vs. Human CBD Oil - What's The Difference?

CBD formulated for cats contains ingredients that are safe for cats, whereas products made for humans might have additional ingredients that could be toxic to your pet.

Further, the concentration of CBD in products for humans is much higher than products formulated for cats. Your cat's body may not be able to tolerate the high concentration of CBD and other products in these oils, and this could result in serious health concerns.

Never give your cat CBD products made for humans.

Many pet owners in the past have tried to give their cats the right CBD dose from a bottle of human products, only to find that their pets respond very poorly. Don't make this mistake, stick to products formulated for cats.

The Difference Between CBD for Cats and CBD for Dogs

Many products, such as Lolahemp's Full-Spectrum CBD Oil for Pets, can be used for cats and dogs alike.

These products are usually marketed "for pets" rather than for dogs or cats, specifically. Products made for dogs, specifically, should be carefully examined before you give them to your cat. Dogs are able to metabolize substances differently than cats due to a difference in liver enzymes between the two animals.

Further, dogs are generally larger than cats so these products tend to have a higher concentration of CBD. CBD oil for cats is formulated with cats in mind, so you know that all of the ingredients are inserted at the appropriate dosage for your feline friend.

What is Full-Spectrum CBD Oil?

CBD is derived from the hemp plant. Hemp grows naturally with CBD as well as a variety of other cannabinoids. THC is present in full-spectrum CBD oil, but only at levels of 0.3% or less, and these levels are tolerable to pets without any psychoactive effects.

The full spectrum CBD dosage for cats, then, would not have significant amounts of THC. This is part of the reason why it's so important to find a reputable manufacturer that features third-party lab tests and certificates of analysis because those things give you confidence that the product has a low THC content.

Full-spectrum hemp oil & full-spectrum CBD oil are almost always the same thing.

One of the main full-spectrum health concerns that pet parents have is the presence of THC. By law, hemp contains only 0.3% THC. THC is toxic to pets in large amounts.

Full-spectrum hemp extract contains cannabinoids, flavanoids, terpenes, and other compounds that can support the therapeutic effects of the CBD product. The synergy between all of these ingredients is known as the "Entourage Effect," which suggests that all of these compounds produce a result that's greater than they could if they were given to a pet individually.

The idea is that they form something that's greater than the sum of their parts, resulting in a superior result for our furry feline friends.

The Alternative: CBD Isolates

The alternative to full-spectrum CBD is CBD isolate oil.

This is a form of CBD that's extracted from all other compounds in hemp oil. Cat parents opt for this option if they're worried about the adverse effects possible from the presence of THC. CBD isolate oils are THC free.

That said, small levels of THC are tolerable for pets and contribute to the overall entourage effect believed to be responsible for some of the therapeutic effects of full-spectrum oils for cats.

Potential Benefits of Cat CBD Oils

There are a handful of benefits possible for cats, depending on the issues that your pet is experiencing.

CBD can be used regularly to support cat health in general, helping to maintain a balanced endocannabinoid system. The endocannabinoid system in cats (and all mammals) supports things like a healthy inflammatory response, emotional wellbeing, pain response, and more.

A healthy & functioning endocannabinoid system typically contributes to an overall wellness in our furry friends. Imbalances to this system are caused by aging, chronic pain, chronic stress, immune disorders, and more.

CBD doesn't modify or act upon the endocannabinoid system, but rather engages with it to support the role that it's already built to do. The results you see in videos and reviews from other pet owners can be largely attributed to this supportive role.

Here are some of the key benefits that cat parents report.

1. Hip & Joint Health

A quick browse of any cat CBD oil reviews will prove this one to you. Owners of senior cats with mobility challenges, primarily in the hips and joints, often say that CBD oil for cats has helped their senior kitties lead more comfortable and mobile lives.

The hip & joint help of CBD oil is mainly due to CBD's support for a healthy inflammatory response. If your cat happens to respond positively to CBD oil, it could take a period of weeks or more to see significant results when it comes to hip and joint support.

2. Emotional Health

CBD is also used for its calming properties. The advantage CBD has over other natural calming options is that it can ease distress without sedating or "zombifying" pets.

With appropriate dosages, cats may benefit from CBD oil taken in anticipation of stressful events. If you see that there's a thunderstorm coming, for example, you could try CBD oil as a potential buffer for your cat's nerves.

For cats with longer-lasting, deep-seated emotional distress, CBD may be able to chip away at some of that tension over time in appropriate dosages. CBD oil for cats can take months to reach optimal levels in the body, potentially contributing to much more significant results.

So, cat parents often use CBD oil for cats in anticipation of temporary stressors like car rides or thunderstorms, as well as in cases where a cat experiences emotional distress on a consistent basis.

Final Thoughts on CBD Dosage for Cats

The optimal starting dosage of CBD for cats is 1mg per 5 pounds of body weight. If you don't see results, it's recommended that you increase very gradually, only by a mg each time you make an increase.

All changes to your cat's dietary regimen or healthy routine should be approved by your veterinarian. The information above pertains to ingestible CBD products for cats.

You can also explore topical products that are designed to address topical issues like dry paws, skin spots, and more. The usage directions for topical products differ from the guidelines for ingestible products.

CBD oil for pets should always come with dosing instructions and guidelines from the manufacturer. Each product may have slight differences, as not all products are made the same.

So, check with your veterinarian, get your cat's weight, and follow the manufacturer's dosage guidelines so long as they suggest CBD dosages within the healthy range for cats!

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have any more questions, check below for quick and easy answers. You can also browse our pet CBD blog for in-depth resources on CBD for cats and dogs.

1. How do you give CBD oil to cats?

To give CBD oil to cats, use a dropper to administer the oil directly into their mouth or mix it with their food. Start with a small dose and observe for any adverse reactions. It's essential to use CBD oil specifically formulated for pets and consult with your vet for proper dosage and guidance.

2. Is CBD oil dosage different for cats and dogs?

Yes, CBD oil dosage varies between dogs and cats due to differences in their metabolism and size. Generally, cats require a lower dosage compared to dogs. It's crucial to use a product specifically formulated for each type of pet and to follow your vet's recommendations for the correct dosage.

3. Can too much CBD hurt my cat?

Yes, giving too much CBD to a cat can lead to side effects such as lethargy, vomiting, or diarrhea. CBD is well-tolerated in cats when given in weight-appropriate dosages. It's important to follow the recommended dosage and consult with your vet to avoid any adverse reactions.

4. How long do the effects of CBD last in cats?

The effects of CBD in cats typically last between 4 to 6 hours. However, this can vary based on the cat's metabolism, the dosage, and the specific product used. Regular monitoring and consultation with your vet can help determine the best dosing schedule for your pet.

5. How much CBD does it take to relax a cat?

The amount of CBD needed to relax a cat varies depending on the cat's size, health, and individual response. Typically, starting with a low dose of 1-2 mg of CBD per 10 pounds of body weight is recommended. Always consult with your vet to determine the appropriate dosage for your cat.

6. Do vets recommend CBD for cats?

Some vets may recommend CBD for cats to manage issues like anxiety or pain, but opinions vary. It's important to consult with your veterinarian to determine if CBD is appropriate for your cat's specific condition and to ensure it's used safely.

7. What are carrier oils, and which are unsafe for cats?

Carrier oils are substances used to dilute essential oils or CBD to ensure safe application and absorption. For cats, oils like fish oil, olive oil, and coconut oil are generally safe, while oils such as eucalyptus, tea tree, and lavender are considered unsafe due to their potential toxicity. Always choose carrier oils that are pet-friendly and consult with your vet before use.

8. Should my cat take CBD oil or CBD treats for anxiety?

Both CBD oil and CBD treats can be effective for managing a cat's distress, but the choice depends on your cat's preferences and specific needs. CBD oil allows for precise dosage adjustment, while CBD treats can be easier to administer but may have a fixed dosage. Consult your vet to decide which option is best for your cat's condition and lifestyle.

9. Should my cat take CBD oil or CBD treats for hip & joint?

For hip and joint issues, CBD oil might be preferable as it allows for precise dosage adjustments and quicker absorption. CBD treats can also be effective but might offer a fixed dosage and slower onset. Consult your vet to choose the best option based on your cat's needs and preferences.

10. Can CBD calm an aggressive cat?

CBD may help reduce aggression in cats by promoting relaxation and alleviating intense emotions, but its effectiveness can vary. It’s important to use it as part of a broader behavioral strategy and consult your vet to ensure it’s suitable and to determine the appropriate dosage.

11. How Much THC Can You Give a Cat?

The THC levels present in full-spectrum hemp oil are considered safe for cats, and this is 0.3% or less. 

Beyond that, there's no situation where you should give your cat THC. More than trace amounts are considered toxic to cats, and you should avoid giving your cat anything with THC as an active ingredient.