Cannabidiol (CBD) is the predominant fat molecule that is produced by our plants grown on our farm in Colorado.
Overview
What is CBD?
Cannabis plants, in their seedling stage, are only producing CBGa. (Cannabigerolic Acid). As the hemp begins to flower they start to produce what is known as the precursor to CBD, called CBDa (cannabidiolic acid). Once harvested, the leaves and flower are trimmed off hemp stalks and stored in a temperature controlled facility. Through an extraction process called supercritical CO2, we are able to derive a whole plant concentrate of CBDa from hemp and then we convert the CBDa through a process called decarboxylation (or heating). This process involves heating the CBDa concentrate at low temperatures to convert to CBD. That raw, viscous medicinal oil is now ready to be mixed into CBD products for cats and dogs.
CBD is a non-intoxicating, non-addictive antioxidant for the body that both binds and signals to many different receptors and systems (ECS) within the body.
Benefits
Benefits of CBD for Pets
CBD, or cannabidiol, has been a hot topic in the world of pet health in recent years. Many pet owners have turned to CBD for pets to help their furry friends with a range of issues, from stress, joint discomfort, and even allergies. If you’re considering giving a product with CBD for pets, it’s important to understand the benefits it can offer.
Stress Relief
Just like humans, pets can suffer from stress. Loud noises, unfamiliar people or animals, and changes in routine can all trigger stress in pets. Fortunately, CBD has been shown to help ease stress and promote calm in pets. Data graphic showing the results from an Earth Buddy 2021 study on CBD dog treats for anxiety. Studies have shown that CBD can help regulate the endocannabinoid system, which plays a key role in regulating mood and stress responses. Additionally, CBD can help modulate levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that promotes feelings of well-being and happiness.
By balancing serotonin, CBD for pets given daily can start to calm dogs and cats, training them to be more relaxed when common triggers occur. Supporting our pet’s parasympathetic state and easing everyday tension defends are pets against longer term health issues that occur due to constant stress. CBD for pets with stressors like thunderstorms, nail trims, fireworks, car rides, and separation from pet parents is one of the best pet supplements we can provide!
Joint Discomfort
Pets can experience a range of discomfort, from joint issues to injuries and surgeries. CBD has been shown to have powerful joint-relieving properties, making it a natural alternative to traditional veterinary medicines. CBD for dogs and cats works by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system and engaging receptors, which plays a key role in regulating discomfort perception. Additionally, CBD promotes a balanced inflammatory response, which can help reduce overall discomfort.
In terms of joint health for dogs and cats, a 2020 study on dogs using NSAIDs in conjunction with pet CBD, showed significant improvement in the CBPI scores. This ensures both the safety of using CBD for pets in combination with NSAIDS along with efficacy of this multimodal approach. Veterinarians and holistic pet practitioners, in some cases, are able to lower their use of these pharmaceuticals for joint discomfort as a result.
Healthy Inflammatory Response
Inflammatory response signals is a common underlying factor in many pet health issues, from joint aches to skin conditions and allergies. CBD has been shown to have potent inflammatory balancing properties, making it a valuable tool for managing these conditions. Consistent inflammatory signals in our pets means that systemically they are going to express this problem through a number of ailments. From aging, stress, or even weakened immune function, CBD for pets can help normalize inflammatory pathways.
Supporting the Immune System in Dogs & Cats
CBD for pets has been shown to have immunomodulatory effects, which means it can help regulate immune cells. This can be especially beneficial for pets with weakened immune systems, such as those undergoing chemotherapy or suffering from autoimmune issues. Due to pets having cannabinoid receptors expressed in almost every immune response, this may indicate that the ECS signaling plays a role in immune function at all levels. By activating the ECS response with CBD for pets, we can help support the immune system and improve overall health and wellness.
Skin health
CBD for pets with topical applications has shown much promise, which can help to reduce cat and dog itchy skin and promote healthy coats. Due to the many cannabinoid receptors found on pet’s skin, topical CBD for pets can relieve irritation with the use of cat and dog paw balm. Many pets suffer from dry noses, cracked or dry paw pads, and hot spots. This makes CBD paw balm for dogs and cats a natural remedy for skin conditions.
Digestive health
CBD has been shown to have digestive health benefits with discovery of many CB2 receptors being expressed in the gut. Cat and dog gut health is a primary indicator of their overall longevity. The digestive health of our pets is often displayed through bad breath, shedding or dull coat, and stool quality. Adding gut health supplements for dogs and cats with CBD can improve the gut microbiome and gut motility. CBD for pets can be particularly useful for pets who suffer from digestive issues such as inflammatory bowels.
Usage
CBD For Pets Is Safe And Effective
One of the main reasons why pet owners are turning to CBD for their furry friends is that it is safe and effective. CBD is a natural compound that is derived from the cannabis plant, and it is non-psychoactive, meaning that it does not produce a “high” in pets or humans. CBD is also non-toxic, and there have been no reported cases of CBD overdose in pets or humans.
When it comes to giving your pet CBD, it is important to choose a high-quality product that is specifically formulated for pets. Many human products have toxic flavorings or additives, like xylitol. It is also important that the pet CBD product you choose is transparent and willingly shares their COA’s (certificates of analysis) to ensure purity and potency of what is displayed on their labels. Pet parents beware if a company uses terms like “proprietary” or does not share 3rd-party lab tests, it is clearly a sign that you should look for a new pet CBD.
Earth Buddy offers a range of CBD products for pets including tinctures, powders, treats, and capsules. All of our products are made from high-quality, organic hemp and are rigorously tested to ensure their safety and effectiveness
Dosage
How To Give Your Pet CBD
If you are considering giving your pet CBD, it is important to start with a low dose and gradually increase it over time. This will help your pet to adjust to the effects of CBD and ensure that they do not experience any negative side effects. You can give your pet CBD oil in a variety of ways, including, mixing into food or direct orally. Earth Buddy offers CBD for dogs and cats in numerous forms with water-soluble CBD, powders, capsules, tinctures, and of course, CBD Black dog biting into an Earth Buddy CBD treats for dogs with limited ingredients. treats! There are number studies that show mixing with a snack or administering CBD to dogs and cats in a fed state improves absorption and CBD stays in the body longer.
Remember that botanicals, like full-spectrum CBD for pets, are an individualized pet supplement. This means that it is best practice, and often optimal results, to use a lower CBD dosage for dogs and cats daily rather than a higher dose. Every cat and dog age and experience life differently. Like people, they come with their own traumas, sensitivities, and predispositions that are completely unique to these amazing creatures souls.
Botanical extracts from the cannabis plant contain a multitude of bioactive compounds in the form of cannabinoids (fat molecules), terpenes (essence or aromatic compounds), and flavonoids (phytochemical compounds). All of these compounds, naturally derived from cannabis, create a synergy or “entourage effect” that single molecule pet CBD (CBD Isolates) cannot achieve in clinical research. To simplify this idea, instead of the western philosophy of medicine where a loading dose may be required, full-spectrum CBD dosage for pets may require much lower doses and often have more profound and safer effects.
For a more in-depth dive on CBD dosage for dogs and cats, watch this informative discussion with Dr. Casara Andre, DVM here: Cannabis for Pets Convo: A Veterinary Perspective
