Reviewed by: Dr. David Tittle, BVetMed, CertVA, GPCert(WVA&CPM), MRCVS
Cats may not be “man’s best friend,” but why does that saying exist anyway? Cats are equally meaningful companions and deserve just as much love and attention as our canine friends. And just like dogs, CBD can be just as beneficial for cats, too.
Although they express themselves differently from dogs, cats can experience many of the same challenges. If you’ve been wondering whether CBD is safe for cats, here’s everything you need to make an informed decision for your feline family member.
Table of Contents
- What is CBD?
- Is CBD safe for cats?
- Is CBD well-tolerated in cats?
- How do I choose CBD for my cat?
- Conclusion
- FAQ
What Is CBD?
There are over 500 chemical substances found in the hemp plant, with more than 100 of those substances earning the title of cannabinoid — chemical substances with the ability to interact with cannabinoid (and other) receptors inside the body. While that may sound complicated, you’ve likely heard of some of these cannabinoids by name: CBD, CBG, CBN, THC, and others.
So, what exactly is CBD? To start, CBD is short for cannabidiol. Like THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), it is a cannabinoid, but unlike THC, CBD is considered non-psychoactive, meaning your cat won’t feel altered or “high” when they ingest it.
How does CBD work?
Scientists previously believed CBD worked by influencing two specific receptors in the body — CB1 and CB2 — which are part of the larger endocannabinoid system. However, now that there has been far more scientific research on how CBD and other cannabinoids work, we’ve come to understand that there is much more to it than just those two receptors.
For example, instead of CB1 and CB2, other, far more diverse receptors are involved throughout the body. CBD research for pets and what we’ve learned from it has drastically shifted how we can safely use these products to help our furry friends.
Related to CBD is CBDA, its acidic precursor. Although there are obvious similarities, the most significant difference between the two cannabinoids is the receptors that they can influence.
Instead of being as wide-ranging as CBD, CBDA largely targets the 5-HT1A receptors, which are responsible for mood and physiological signs like nausea and vomiting. CBDA is also absorbed exceptionally well by cats. As well as having a direct effect, some is then metabolized to CBD, making it an even more effective cannabinoid for our feline family members.
Together, CBD and CBDA work in tandem to support pets through some of the trickier parts of life, including physical discomfort and stress. While it’s not a cure, it can offer meaningful support, especially when combined with other approaches recommended by your veterinarian.
Is CBD Safe for Cats?
Besides the very obvious personality differences, cats and dogs also differ significantly on a physiological level. For instance, although a cat may be the size of a small dog, the cat metabolizes supplements very differently, which is why the same products can’t always be given to both species at the same amount.
Some products that are safe for dogs can even be harmful to cats, which means the options for supporting feline wellbeing are more limited. Because safe cat products seem so hard to come by, doing separate safety studies on cats was non-negotiable for us.
So, is CBD safe for cats? Yes!
We wanted to ensure our CBD + CBDA products are just as safe for cats as they are for dogs while also determining the most appropriate administration amounts for each species. Those studies have shown our products to be safe for cats on a long-term basis, a distinction that is genuinely rare in the CBD space and one we take seriously.
Is CBD + CBDA Well-Tolerated in Cats?
Any product can produce unwanted effects in some animals, but with CBD + CBDA, these are generally rare, temporary, and mild. The most commonly reported effects include excessive sleepiness or digestive sensitivity, particularly loose stools.
Through our rigorous safety testing, we found these effects to be minimal in both cats and dogs. However, it’s important to note that our studies were conducted on our specific CBD + CBDA products, not CBD broadly.
CBD + CBDA can also interact with other supplements your cat may be taking, potentially affecting how those products are metabolized. Before starting any new product, we always recommend discussing it with your veterinarian. It’s the safest approach, and your cat is worth it.
How Do I Choose CBD for My Cat?
No one is a better advocate for their cat than you are — so doing your research on what to look for when choosing CBD for your cat is crucial before making the leap. What are the benefits that you’re looking to obtain for your cat? What are you worried about?
Stick with reputable scientific sites to increase the odds that you’ll be getting accurate advice from people who know what they’re talking about. In addition to doing your research, we always recommend you consult with your veterinarian before starting on any new product.
But it’s not just about CBD as a whole. There are also a few things to look for in a pet CBD company that can help ensure that they can be trusted with your cat’s health and quality of life.
Brand & product transparency
If the CBD products don’t have an easy-to-access certificate of analysis (COA), you won’t know what you’re giving your furry family member. COAs use third-party lab testing to publicly state the number of cannabinoids and terpenes in a product and any potential contaminants like heavy metals. That way, you can be sure you’re trusting what you’re giving your cat.
Product source & quality
At ElleVet, we think it’s best to start at the very beginning: the quality of hemp plants and where they’re grown. How can you trust that you’re spending your money on a high-quality CBD oil or chew if you don’t know where the hemp came from? Choosing a CBD company that goes the extra mile and grows their own hemp is an excellent first step — it shows they care enough to control every step of the product.
Safety studies and clinical trials
Safe cat products can be hard to find, so cat owners shouldn’t assume the product is safe. Look for companies that have published, commissioned, and even led the way on safety studies and clinical trials, helping to confirm their product’s effectiveness and overall safety.
Cat-specific administration
Finding a quality CBD + CBDA product is crucial, but also making sure the company has researched cat-specific administration guidelines and clearly published it on their labels. The amount of CBD needed is much different for a cat than for a dog, so you want to be sure you’re giving your cat the right amount. Equally important is ensuring the product comes with an administration method that works for your pet, especially if you’re using a liquid form (like CBD oil for cats).
CBDA in the product
As we mentioned, CBDA is more bioavailable for cats to absorb, so it helps to ensure that any product you buy for your cat has at least 50% of CBDA. Check the label or the COA to see exactly what is in your CBD product and look for those higher CBDA levels to maximize the benefits for your cat.
Conclusion
Is CBD safe for cats? The answer is yes — not only is it safe, but it can also be especially beneficial when used together with CBDA. However, not all CBD is created equal.
Take the time to research the company you plan to purchase from, verify with your veterinarian that CBD + CBDA won’t interfere with any of their current care plan, and follow the recommendations for how much, how often, and how to administer the product to your cat. For example, administration at mealtimes often increases the absorption of CBD + CBDA. These factors can make a considerable difference in your cat’s response.
For CBD you can trust, with the safety studies and clinical trials to back it up, ElleVet Sciences always has your cat’s best interests at heart.
FAQs
Can I give my cat human CBD?
No, human CBD products are formulated for human physiology and administration amounts, and may contain ingredients that are harmful to cats, such as certain flavorings or carrier oils. Always use a product specifically formulated and tested for cats.
How long does it take for CBD + CBDA to work in cats?
This can vary depending on the individual cat and what support you’re looking for. Some cat owners notice changes within a few days, while others may take a week or more to see results. Giving the product at regular intervals as directed will support the best outcome.
Do I need to purchase CBD from my cat’s veterinarian?
Most CBD products for cats are available outside of your vet, however, higher quality CBD + CBDA products that are backed by science, may also be recommended and carried by your veterinarian. We always recommend consulting your veterinarian before starting any new supplement.
Sources:
Cannabis (Marijuana) and Cannabinoids: What You Need To Know | NCCIH
An Introduction to the Endogenous Cannabinoid System | PubMed
Any health or medical information in ElleVet blogs is from a variety of public and reputable sources. This information is intended as an educational resource only and is not a substitute for expert professional care.