As pet parents, we all want what's best for our furry companions, especially when it comes to their health and happiness. More and more people are exploring natural options like CBD to support their pets' well-being. Whether it's to ease anxiety, calm digestive issues, support joint comfort, or promote general wellness, CBD has become a go-to supplement in holistic pet care. This guide covers how it works, what the research says, and how to use it safely and effectively.
What Is CBD and How Does It Work in Pets?
CBD is a non-psychoactive, naturally occurring compound found in hemp plants. It interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a regulatory system that exists in both cats and dogs, as well as in humans. The ECS plays a key role in maintaining balance across many bodily functions including mood, appetite, inflammation, and comfort. By supporting the endocannabinoid system, CBD can help promote overall balance and wellness in your pet's body and mind.
To understand more about how the ECS works, see our endocannabinoid system guide.
Potential Benefits of CBD for Pets
Dog and cat owners are using CBD to address a wide range of common health concerns. Here's what the research currently shows:
Seizures
Studies suggest CBD can help reduce the frequency and severity of seizures in pets. In a study conducted by the American Kennel Club Canine Health Foundation at the University of Colorado, dogs with epilepsy experienced fewer seizure days while taking CBD oil compared to the placebo period.
Joint Comfort and Mobility
Older pets with arthritis or stiffness may experience improved mobility and comfort. A Cornell University study showed that CBD supported pain management in many dogs, with more than 80% of dogs with osteoarthritis experiencing a decrease in discomfort, allowing them to be more comfortable and active. A study published in the Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery found that CBD was well-tolerated in healthy cats and may help manage discomfort and inflammation.
Skin Health and Allergies
The anti-inflammatory properties of CBD may support healthy skin in pets and ease allergic reactions. A study by an Australian pet wellness company exploring CBD for dogs with atopy, a skin allergy causing persistent itching and chewing, found that approximately 65% of dogs given CBD experienced a reduction of at least 50% in itching and chewing behaviors. Half of those dogs showed complete resolution of itch-related symptoms during the treatment period.
Anxiety and Stress
Whether it's separation anxiety, fear of vet visits, or loud noises, CBD may help your pet feel calmer. In a Cornell University study, 83% of dogs given CBD before a stressful situation displayed reduced signs of stress and anxiety-related behaviors. A 2024 study at the Waltham Petcare Science Institute found that CBD positively influenced behavioral and physiological indicators of stress in dogs, with significantly reduced cortisol levels and fewer anxiety-related behaviors like whining and lip-licking. The calming effects were consistent over the six-month study period.
Digestive Support
CBD may soothe upset stomachs and support healthy digestion. When a pet consumes an allergen, their body often responds with inflammation in the stomach or intestines. CBD may work with the pet's endocannabinoid system to help soothe this inflammation, easing digestive discomfort and supporting overall gut health in both cats and dogs.
Is CBD Safe for Cats and Dogs?
Full spectrum CBD has been safely used by many cats and dogs. Cats and dogs are born with endocannabinoid systems just like humans, with internal mechanisms that allow them to absorb cannabinoids and benefit from them.
Many pet owners have initial concerns about full spectrum CBD, which contains trace amounts of THC. Hemp-derived CBD contains only a very small, legal amount of THC, which is not only safe for pets but also enhances the effectiveness of CBD through the entourage effect. The entourage effect refers to how different compounds in the hemp plant, including cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids, work together synergistically for a more comprehensive result than any single compound alone. Learn more in our full spectrum CBD guide.
To ensure you're being as safe as possible when introducing CBD to your pet:
- Always verify the product has reliable third-party safety and potency testing. Purity and consistency are important for a safe experience.
- Start low and slow. While we have general serving size guidelines based on weight, every pet reacts differently. Start with small serving sizes and increase gradually only after consistent use. Monitor your pet carefully and keep notes to best optimize the introduction of CBD.
- Consult a veterinarian before your pet tries CBD, especially if they are currently taking medications. Most veterinarians today are supportive of CBD and happy to advise on its use and benefits.
Our Pet Care Tincture
Our Pet Care 10mg Full Spectrum CBD Tincture was created with your pet's health and safety in mind.
- Pet-formulated. Gentle and effective with full spectrum hemp extract and nutrient-rich hemp seed oil.
- Organic and clean. Made from organic, pet-safe ingredients and free from artificial flavors or unnecessary fillers.
- Easy to use. The dropper makes serving simple, whether placed directly in the mouth or mixed into food. Each full 1ml dropper contains 10mg CBD, marked with lines to easily adjust the serving size.
- Lab tested. Every batch is third-party tested for purity and safety. Our lab reports are available on our Labs Explained page.
Here's what some of our customers have shared:
"I have tried several brands of CBD for my Saint Bernards. This is the only one that seems to help them rest at night. I love the fact I can get test results and trust the ingredients!"
"My little poodle, Lucy, has recently lost her vision and is very hard of hearing. She has become very anxious, cries, whimpers and is in constant motion. Our Flora Sophia for pets has calmed her down immensely. She is much more comfortable."
"The Pet Care 10mg CBD is what we've been using for some time because it does relieve the discomfort and anxiety for our small older dog caused by her hip issues. Can tell it helps her almost immediately! We will continue to purchase this for her."
How Much CBD Should You Give Your Pet?
Serving size depends on your pet's weight, individual needs, and experience with CBD. We recommend starting with 1 to 2mg of CBD per 10 pounds of body weight. It is always best to start with a low serving and increase gradually as needed, while keeping a detailed log of how your pet responds. These are suggested guidelines based on available research, and we recommend consulting a veterinarian about introducing CBD to your pet's care routine.
What to Expect: Effects and Timeline
Some pets may feel effects within 30 to 60 minutes, especially for situational uses like stress. For ongoing concerns like joint comfort or anxiety, it may take a few days to a couple of weeks of consistent use to see full results. Like any supplement, regular daily use often yields the best outcomes, though some pets may benefit from as-needed use.
As it works you may notice reduced restlessness and anxiety, improved mobility and digestion, a brighter mood, and more playfulness.
Timeline and effectiveness varies with each pet and their specific situation. Consult your vet and feel free to reach out to us with any questions or concerns.
Final Thoughts
CBD can be a gentle, natural way to support your pet's overall health, whether they're dealing with stress, mobility challenges, or general wellness needs. Many pet parents are seeing real improvements in their cats' and dogs' quality of life with our Pet Care tincture.
The key is choosing a high-quality, pet-formulated product that's clean, safe, and backed by transparent testing. Start with a low serving, be consistent, and always pay attention to how your pet responds. We're here to support you and your furry friend on the path to better wellness, naturally.
Frequently Asked Questions About CBD for Pets
Is CBD safe for cats and dogs?
Yes, when sourced from hemp and used at appropriate serving sizes, CBD is generally considered safe for cats and dogs. Both species have endocannabinoid systems that respond to cannabinoids similarly to humans. Always consult your veterinarian before starting CBD, especially if your pet takes medications.
Will CBD make my pet feel high?
No. Our Pet Care tincture is made from hemp-derived full spectrum CBD containing less than 0.3% THC, which is not enough to produce any psychoactive effect in pets. The goal is calm and balance, not intoxication.
How much CBD should I give my pet?
A general starting point is 1 to 2mg of CBD per 10 pounds of body weight. Start low, observe your pet carefully, and adjust gradually over time. Every animal responds differently so patience and consistency are key.
How long does it take for CBD to work in pets?
For situational stress, some pets show a response within 30 to 60 minutes. For ongoing concerns like joint comfort or chronic anxiety, consistent daily use over one to two weeks typically produces the most noticeable results.
Can I give my pet the same CBD tincture I use?
We recommend using a product specifically formulated for pets. Our Pet Care 10mg Full Spectrum CBD Tincture uses hemp seed oil as a carrier rather than MCT oil, and is formulated with pet-appropriate serving sizes in mind.
Where can I find lab results for the Pet Care tincture?
All of our Certificates of Analysis are publicly available on our Labs Explained page.
Sources:
1. AKC Canine Health Foundation - Evidence for the Use of CBD