Early research suggests that cannabidiol (CBD) may help pets with conditions like anxiety, chronic pain, and seizures, but it’s best to work with a veterinarian who is familiar with CBD products if you are looking to give them a try for your pet.
Using CBD for pet health problems is based on the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). The goal of the ECS is to achieve and maintain balance of all processes in the body. This is thought to be the reason CBD may have so many potential benefits. Keep in mind that every pet’s ECS functions a little bit differently, so CBD may work better for some than others.
CBD may play a role in lowering inflammation and relieving pain by affecting the ECS and other nerves that are involved in creating pain sensations. More specifically, studies have shown that reducing joint inflammation relieves aches and pains in pets.
Many pets experience anxiety, leading to several troublesome behaviors. CBD is thought to ease nervousness and provide feelings of calm; activating some of the same areas of the brain that helps us feel happy and relaxed.
CBD has also been shown to help with epilepsy in dogs by lowering the frequency of seizures when used in combination with traditional antiseizure medications.