DR. DANA BLOGS

Can CBD Help My Pet?

Apr 30, 2025

 

Introduction 

Pets in our lives provide a source of companionship, comfort, unconditional love and provide emotional support in times of need.  They are remarkable in how they know when their master is not doing well and able to sit and be emotionally present for them. Dogs and cats are the most common pets in U.S. households so this article will address the specifics of using CBD for our canine and/or feline friends.  

Our pets have the remarkable ability to relieve stress, support heart health and help children with their emotional and social skills.  So why not support a pet’s health if they develop health issues?  Their quality of life is critical to our current state of being  as they are a beloved family member.  How about considering a natural remedy?   

Our canine and feline friends are mammals.  As mammals they can suffer from anxiety whether acute, related to fireworks, thunder or periodic, episodes such as separation anxiety when their owner leaves.  On the other hand, some of our pets have a hyperactive disposition that can be disruptive to one’s family life and need something to calm them.  The worst-case scenario is they have seizures or a chronic or painful debilitating condition.   

Current Research on CBD and Pets 

Research anecdotally supports the role of cannabidiol or CBD to help pets with anxiety, chronic pain, and seizures.  According to Dr. Jerry Klein, the American Kennel Club Chief Veterinary Officer, CBD can be used for its anti-inflammatory properties, cardiac benefits, anti-nausea effects, appetite stimulation, anti-anxiety impact, and for possible anti-cancer therapy.  Currently, there has been no formal study on how CBD affects dogs or cats. What scientists do know is cannabinoids interact with the endocannabinoid receptors located in the central and peripheral nervous systems, which create internal balance in the body and keep it in a normal healthy state.  

Can CBD Make My Pet High? 

Before you purchase any CBD for your pet carefully read the label for specific information about its source.  If the product states “full spectrum,” this means the product may have 0.3% delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol or THC which is psychoactive.  THC is toxic to our pets.  It’s advised to purchase a CBD product for your pet that comes from hemp which has no THC.  It is best to buy organic, with higher quality and purity.  Find a product that clearly states the amount of CBD it contains and make sure it is free of heavy metals and pesticides.  The manufacture should have the lab test results readily available for review.   

Forms of CBD for Pets 

There are multiple forms of CBD one can purchase for one’s pet.  The variety is staggering to be honest; from oil, biscuits, jerky, topical products (lotions, gels, creams), and more.  Treats for cats are typically salmon or to bacon. Dogs love bacon, peanut butter, chicken, or beef in their treats.  The best bang for your buck is bottled oils with droppers may be the preferable method as one can slowly add it to their food or place it in their mouth.  CBD is based on your pets’ weight.    

Dosage Guidelines:

 

Dogs

Cats

< 10 pounds ½ biscuit or jerky treat

30-50 pounds ½ -1 biscuit/jerky treat

100 pounds 1-2 treats typically 5-10 mg

 

CBD oil 1-5 mg for a 10-pound cat

 

 

 

Side Effects of CBD

 

Dry mouth: CBD can decrease production of saliva. For dogs this means drinking more water.
Drowiness: The calming effects can cause drowsiness especially with increased dosages.
Lowered Blood Pressure:  High doses of CBD have been shown to cause a drop in B/P readkings.

 

The Benefits of CBD for Your Pet 

CBD is meant to be a wellness routine for your canine or feline friend.  As mammals they experience arthritis, organ failure, blood sugar issues and general aging issues.  Supplementation can prolong their lifespan and quality. The following benefits of CBD usage for dogs and cats are: 

Treat chronic pain and infections
Ease anxiety and depression
Inhibit the growth and survival of cancerous cells
Offer healthy, soft and shiny coats
Reduce swelling and discomfort
Boost quality of life and overall health 

Conclusion 

Supporting our canine and feline family members is critical to their and our health.  As a fellow mammal they share the same physiological issues of aging.  CBD could be a game changer for these beloved creatures who bring enormous benefit to our lives.  Please consider augmenting your pets’ health with CBD.   

References: 

1. National Institute of Health.  (2018, February). The Power of Pets:  Health Benefits of Human-Animal Interactions.  Retrieved March 8, 2023 at https://newsinhealth.nih.gov/2018/02/power-pets.
2. Varanasi, D.  (2021, April).  Can CBD Help My Pet?  Good Rx.  Retrieved March 1, 2023 at https://www.goodrx.com/pet-health/pets/cbd-for-pets
3. American Kennel Club. (2021, February).  CBD Oil for Dogs: What You Need to Know. Retrieved March 7, 2023 at https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/cbd-oil-dogs/.