CBD for Cat Anxiety - Does It Work?

This is a guide to for pet owners about cbd for cats with anxiety

By: Lianne McLeod D.V.M.

CBD for Cat Anxiety - Does It Work?

CBD oil can support stressed cats in a number of ways.

Cats sometimes suffer from anxiety which can manifest in various ways including excessive grooming, hiding, aggression, and more. While traditional veterinary medicine offers treatments for anxiety, many pet owners are turning to natural alternatives such as CBD products made for cats.

This guide covers the ways in which CBD oil may support your cat's anxiety symptoms.

How Does CBD Oil Work for Cat Anxiety?

CBD oil interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex network of receptors found throughout the body, including the brain, nervous system, and immune system. The ECS plays a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions, including mood, appetite, pain perception, and immune response.

When CBD is administered to cats, it binds to receptors in the ECS, helping to modulate these functions in various ways. In the case of emotional distress, CBD can potentially ease separation anxiety by influencing serotonin receptors in the brain, promoting a sense of calm and well-being in your furry feline. These effects extend to the nervous system and contribute to a sense of calm, either temporarily or long-term depending on how long you give your cat CBD oil. 

Using CBD Oil for Feline Behavioral Support

Cats with behavioral issues, such as aggression, excessive grooming, or inappropriate elimination, may benefit from the calming effects of CBD oil. By reducing anxiety and promoting a sense of calm, CBD can help improve your cat's behavior and reduce stress-related behaviors.

Regular use of CBD oil for cats with a history of trauma or those exposed to stressful situations can help create a more balanced and peaceful demeanor, improving their interactions with other pets and family members.

 

A cute cat pawing near a window - How CBD oil works for cats with anxiety
 

How Long Does it Take CBD Oil to Help Cat Stress?

It's important to note that CBD oil may not help your cat, but there's a good chance that it will. If it does work, it could help in short-term and long-term ways. 

If you're using CBD oil to help your cat get through a specific situation, give them a dosage about an hour before you anticipate the event.

If you're looking to help overall daily calmness, it's recommended to give them a weight appropriate dosage twice daily.

Things to Know about Using CBD Oil for Your Cat's Anxiety

The most important thing is to use a CBD oil option that's specifically formulated to be safe for cats. Second, you need to follow dosage guidelines according to your cat's weight.

While no serious adverse reactions to CBD have been noted in cats, it's possible for too much CBD to cause drowsiness or digestive discomfort. It's also possible for your cat to have negative reaction on their first use, so it's important to monitor their response closely. 

References:

  1. Veterinary Science and Medicine - A case report of CBD and THC as analgesic therapy in a cat with chronic osteoarthritic pain
  2. Heliyon - CBD for Separation Anxiety in Cats Study
  3. Frontiers in Veterinary Science - CBD Oil for Healthy Cats
  4. Waltham Petcare Science Institute - Tolerability of CBD for Cats
  5. Evaluation of Adverse Effects of CBD in Dogs and Cats
  6. National Library of Medicine - Scientific Validation of Cannabidiol (CBD) for Management of Dog and Cat Diseases

Related product

 
This photo shows Lolahemp CBD Oil for Cats with a hemp leaf and a droplet of oil.

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