CBD oil is available in various forms and concentrations, so it’s important to choose the right type for your dog or cat. These are the main differences:

• Full-spectrum CBD oil: contains not only CBD, but also other cannabinoids, terpenes and flavonoids from the hemp plant. These compounds may work together to enhance each other’s effects. This oil contains a very low level of THC (usually <0.2%). An example is cdVet CBD Oil.
• CBD isolate: contains only CBD, without any other cannabinoids or terpenes. This oil is odourless and tasteless, making it suitable for fussy pets. This type does not benefit from the synergistic effect of multiple active compounds.

Although CBD oil is commonly used for pets, THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is another compound found in the cannabis plant that should be avoided in dogs and cats. THC oil should never be used in animals because THC is toxic to pets and may cause severe drowsiness, vomiting, tremors or even loss of consciousness. It can also increase anxiety and cause panic. In addition, THC has addictive properties.

CBD oil may be beneficial for some animals, but it is not recommended for:

• Animals with liver disease, as CBD may affect liver function.
• Animals with low blood pressure, as CBD may lower it further.
• Pregnant or nursing animals, due to insufficient research into its safety.
• Young, growing animals, as the effects on development have not yet been sufficiently studied.
• Animals taking medication that is metabolised by the liver, as CBD may affect the breakdown of certain medicines.

If you want to use CBD for your dog or cat, choose a product that has been specially developed for animals and contains no THC or as little THC as possible, allowing your pet to benefit safely from CBD without unnecessary risks. By law, supplements may contain no more than 0.2% THC in order to be considered safe for pets.

Hemp seeds do not contain significant amounts of THC or CBD. The naturally occurring cannabinoids found in hemp seeds are minimal and negligible. Hemp seed oil is mainly used because it is rich in healthy fatty acids, minerals, vitamins and proteins. This contributes to healthy skin and a shiny coat.

With a CBD oil such as cdVet CBD Oil, the entire hemp plant is used, guaranteeing a cannabinoid content of 2%, with CBD being the main cannabinoid. Stronger oils containing higher concentrations of cannabinoids are prohibited in Europe. This type is mainly used because of the cannabinoids it contains, which contribute to relaxation and pain relief. CBD is not addictive and will not make your pet “high”.

Side effects

Although CBD oil is generally considered safe, side effects may occur, particularly if the dosage is incorrect or if the animal is sensitive to it. Possible side effects include:

• Lethargy or drowsiness: some animals become calmer or sleepier, especially at higher dosages.
• Changes in appetite: some animals may become hungrier, while others may eat less.
• Diarrhoea or stomach upset: this mainly occurs when the digestive system needs time to adjust to the oil.
• Dry mouth: CBD may reduce saliva production, which can cause some animals to become thirstier.
• A slight drop in blood pressure: this may result in mild dizziness or slower reactions.

Safety and points to consider

CBD oil is generally safe when given at the correct dosage, but there are several important points to consider:

• Always use a product without THC or with the lowest possible THC content: THC can be addictive, is toxic to pets and may cause serious side effects if too much is given.
• Start with a low dose: begin with a small amount and gradually increase it to see how your pet responds.
• Consult your veterinarian: especially if your pet is already taking medication or has health problems such as liver or kidney disease.
• Take extra care with pregnant or nursing animals: there is still insufficient research into the effects of CBD in these situations.
• Pay attention to product quality: always choose a supplement intended exclusively for pets, supplied by a reputable company and clearly stating the CBD concentration, without harmful additives.

CBD (cannabidiol) influences receptors in the body that are involved in relaxation, pain perception and inflammatory processes. This may help the animal feel more balanced without the addictive effects of THC.

CBD can be administered in several ways:

• Directly into the mouth: this provides the fastest absorption.
• Mixed with food: useful for fussy pets.
• As drops on a treat: an easy way to include it in your pet’s daily routine.
• In the form of a specially developed tasty treat.

CBD for pets is available in a range of forms, including oil, paste, capsules, treats, balm and even spot-on products, allowing you to choose the option that best suits your pet’s needs and preferences. Below are several examples.

• Canina Hemp Drops with Natural CBD, suitable for dogs.
• CBD paste for dogs and cats.
• CBD treats for dogs, and Chicken Sticks with CBD for cats.
• Balm, for external use on all animals.
• Shampoo, for external use on dogs.

No, your pet cannot get high from CBD, provided the product does not contain THC. THC is the compound in cannabis that produces psychoactive effects, whereas CBD is not psychoactive. High-quality CBD products for animals are specially formulated without THC or with only negligible amounts of THC, making them safe to use without causing your pet to feel disorientated or behave unusually.

The time it takes for CBD oil to have an effect depends on the method of administration and the reason for use. When given orally, such as directly into the mouth or mixed with food, it usually starts to work within 30 to 60 minutes. For some purposes, such as promoting relaxation or supporting comfort, the effects may be noticeable within an hour. When used over a longer period, for example for joint problems or separation anxiety, it may take several days to a few weeks before the maximum effect is achieved, as CBD gradually builds up in the body.

In principle, a pet cannot suffer a life-threatening overdose of CBD, although excessive amounts may cause unwanted side effects. If an animal receives too much CBD, symptoms such as lethargy, digestive upset, diarrhoea, reduced appetite and, in some cases, mild dizziness may occur. These side effects usually disappear once the CBD has worn off. It is always advisable to start with a low dose and increase it gradually so you can monitor your pet’s response. If you are unsure or if symptoms persist, consult your veterinarian.

Although a CBD overdose is generally not dangerous, the same does not apply to THC. THC is toxic to pets and an overdose may cause serious symptoms, including extreme lethargy, vomiting, tremors, loss of bladder control, confusion and, in severe cases, even coma. This is because animals are much more sensitive to THC than humans.

Why do most supplements still contain <0.2% THC?

Many pet supplements contain <0.2% THC because this is the legal maximum permitted for industrial hemp products, including CBD oil. This means that trace amounts of THC may be present, but in such low concentrations that they would not normally have harmful effects on pets. However, it is important to be aware that some animals are particularly sensitive to THC, even at very low levels. For sensitive animals or long-term use, it is therefore recommended to choose a broad-spectrum or THC-free CBD oil to minimise the risk of side effects.

It is not recommended to give CBD oil to a pregnant or nursing dog or cat. There is currently insufficient scientific research into the effects of CBD on the development of unborn and newborn animals. CBD may influence the hormonal system and could potentially affect the growth and development of puppies or kittens. In addition, CBD is passed on through the mother’s milk, which may have unpredictable effects on the young.

If you are looking for a natural way to support a pregnant or nursing dog or cat, it is best to discuss suitable and proven alternatives with your veterinarian.

When buying CBD oil for your pet, it is important to consider several factors to ensure safety, quality and effectiveness.

• Always choose a product that has been specially developed for animals, as these generally do not contain additives that may be harmful to pets. Check the CBD concentration so you can match the dosage to your pet’s weight and individual needs. Also ensure that the oil is THC-free or contains no more than 0.2% THC, as THC can be toxic to pets.
• A reliable CBD oil should be made from organically grown hemp and be free from pesticides, heavy metals and other harmful substances. Choose a product that has been quality tested so you can be confident that the composition is accurate and free from contaminants.
• The carrier oil used is also important. Hemp seed oil or fish oil is generally well tolerated by pets, whereas some oils, such as MCT oil, may be less suitable for cats.
• Finally, choose a reputable brand that provides clear product information and dosage guidelines. If you are unsure, or if your pet is taking medication, always consult your veterinarian first.

No, CBD oil is not the same as cannabis oil. CBD oil is extracted from industrial hemp plants and mainly contains cannabidiol (CBD), with little or no THC. Cannabis oil, on the other hand, is made from the flowers of cannabis plants that contain high levels of THC, which can produce psychoactive effects. For pets, only THC-free CBD oil is considered safe and suitable.

Yes, you can give your pet CBD oil as a preventative supplement to support overall health and wellbeing. Many owners use it as a natural addition to help reduce stress, support the immune system or help maintain healthy joints later in life. Because CBD works via the endocannabinoid system, a low, regular dose may contribute to better overall balance within the body. However, it is important to start with a low dose and carefully observe how your pet responds.

CBD oil can be used alongside certain medicines and supplements, but caution is advised. CBD is metabolised by the liver and may affect the way some medicines are processed by altering the rate at which they are broken down. This particularly applies to medicines that are also metabolised by the liver, such as certain painkillers, anti-inflammatory medicines, blood thinners and epilepsy medication.

CBD may also enhance or reduce the effects of other supplements, particularly those with calming or anti-inflammatory properties. If your pet is already taking medication, it is always advisable to consult your veterinarian before introducing CBD. By starting with a low dose and monitoring your pet carefully, you can identify any potential side effects or interactions at an early stage.

• To support the wellbeing of dogs and cats in a variety of situations.
• To help promote relaxation during stressful situations, such as loud noises, travelling or being left home alone.
• CBD may contribute to improved mobility in older animals and may have a soothing effect on stiff muscles and joints.
• To support appetite and healthy digestion.
• To support overall wellbeing and vitality.

As every animal is unique, the effects may vary. It is therefore important to start with a low dose and carefully observe how your dog or cat responds. If you have any questions or if your pet is taking medication, it is advisable to consult your veterinarian.