CBD oil for Your Pet's Health and Well-Being

CBD, or cannabidiol, is a phytocannabinoid derived from the Cannabis sativa plant. CBD plays a crucial role in enhancing the health of pets. Phytocannabinoids like CBD interact with receptors in the Endocannabinoid system, a complex regulatory network essential for maintaining homeostasis (self-regulating process by which an organism tends to maintain stability while adjusting to conditions that are best for its survival). 

Among the receptors, CB1 and CB2 are the most prominent. CB1 receptor activation may modulate pain, reduce nausea, and improve appetite, cognition and sleep quality. CB2 is associated with immune and inflammatory responses.

Understanding CBD

CBD is just one of the many phytocannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) is the second most well-known. THC is responsible for the recreational "high" experienced by marijuana users. It may be toxic to dogs in high doses, although if used with care, can have analgesic and anticancer benefits. Currently, legislation in Australia only permits the prescription of low-THC products by vets (< 5%). 

Benefits of CBD

CBD oil offers a number of potential therapeutic benefits for pets: 

• Antioxidant effects

• Pain relief

• Anti-inflammatory properties

• Reducing nausea

• Anti-diabetic effects

• Reducing anxiety

• Some anti-cancer effects

Veterinary CBD in Australia

There is no registered Veterinary CBD product in Australia at this time. However, registered veterinarians can prescribe CBD oil that is 98% CBD and a maximum of 2% other cannabinoids, including THC. This process is akin to prescribing any other Schedule 4 (S4) medication and necessitates a prescription sent to a veterinary compounding pharmacist.

Using CBD oil in Dogs and Cats

At All Natural Vet Care, we prescribe CBD oil, as part of a comprehensive integrative approach, to assist dogs and cats in managing a wide range of health conditions. These include, but are not limited to:

• Chronic pain from arthritis

• Muscle or neurological pain

• Intervertebral disc disease

• Stress and anxiety

• Poor sleep quality

• Skin allergies and itch

• Assist with the management of seizures that are not responding well to conventional treatments 

• Immune modulation for immune deficiency or immune-mediated conditions

• Integrative cancer care, potentially reducing nausea, and pain, and improving appetite

Understanding Side Effects

While uncommon, some side effects may occur. These can include increased drowsiness or mild gastrointestinal symptoms, such as softer stool. Additionally, there is a potential for interactions with certain conventional medicines. Our experienced vets will review the potential for any adverse reactions with medications your pet has been prescribed. It is advisable to start with a low dose and carefully titrate up to find the optimal dosage for your pet.

Full Spectrum vs Isolate CBD Oil

CBD oil can be categorised as either full spectrum, containing cannabinoids, flavonoids, and terpenoids, or isolate, which contains only CBD. Full-spectrum CBD oil often provides increased benefits through what is known as the "entourage effect." The isolate may be better tolerated by pets with sensitive gastrointestinal tract.

If you would like more information, please contact us today to learn more about how CBD can benefit your furry companion.