If you’ve been considering using CBD for your pet to relieve their situational anxiety, pain, or discomfort, you may have some questions about CBD and how it works. At Animal Medical Center of Streetsboro, we’ve put together some frequently asked questions we hear regarding CBD for pets:

Is hemp the same as marijuana?Frequently Asked Questions for CBD for Your Pets

“Hemp” is the non-psychoactive version of cannabis that has a variety of benefits to the health of your pet. Hemp contains less than 1% of THC, which is the psychoactive component in the marijuana plant. Hemp oil and hemp seed oil are used for pets to ease aches and calm anxiety.

Will my dog get high from full-spectrum CBD?

No, your pet will not get high from taking full-spectrum CBD. Full-spectrum CBD is made with whole-hemp extract and contains less than 0.3% THC. THC is the psychoactive part of the cannabis plant that gives people the feeling of being “high.” The cannabinoids in full-spectrum CBD for dogs and cats will not cause psychoactive effects or a “high” feeling but instead will induce a feeling of calm and relaxation.

How does CBD work?

CBD reacts with a series of receptors in your dog’s body called the endocannabinoid system to relieve pain and symptoms of other health conditions. The endocannabinoid system helps your dog’s body maintain balance in relaxation, resistance to disease, and reduction of inflammation. The cannabinoids in CBD interact with the receptors in your dog’s body to help alleviate issues such as pain, nausea, and anxiety.

Is CBD safe for long-term use?

Unlike traditional pain medications, full-spectrum CBD will not damage the liver, GI tract, or kidneys when used long-term.

What can CBD be used for?

In addition to relieving anxiety, gastrointestinal issues, and pain, CBD also provides a range of health benefits to your pet, such as supporting their brain and nerve function, promoting better coronary circulation, supporting healthy digestion, supporting their performance and endurance and more!
Can my pet overdose on CBD?

No, your pet cannot overdose on full-spectrum CBD. CBD can be administered as needed until you start to see results. If you administer too much CBD, it can cause your pet to become sleepy or have diarrhea. Be sure to consult with your veterinarian regarding the proper dosage for your pet. Dosage varies from pet to pet.

How long does it take for CBD to start working?

Reaction time to full-spectrum CBD can vary based on your pet and their ailment. For things like pain and situational anxiety, you can expect to see improvement within 5-10 minutes, but it may take 15-30 minutes. If your pet doesn’t experience any change in half an hour, you can administer another dose. Be sure to follow dosage guidelines provided by your veterinarian to ensure your pet gets the most out of the CBD.

If you have additional questions about CBD for your pet or would like to schedule a consultation with your veterinarian, please contact us today to schedule your appointment.