If you’re looking for natural relief for your pet, try CBD
Looking for a gentle, natural way to help your pet feel their best? CBD may be the answer. Cannabidiol (CBD) is produced naturally by the cannabis plant, and it has profound soothing effects on all mammals. Effects can range from reducing anxieties and obsessive behaviors to easing arthritis pain, and to promoting calm and improving mood. Research has shown that CBD can reduce the frequency and severity of seizures in dogs. In animals recovering from illness or injury, CBD helps reduce nausea and stimulate the appetite. In essence, CBD helps the body rebalance its internal systems to return to a stable state called homeostasis.
At All The Best Pet Care, we focus on safe, thoughtfully sourced CBD products that support your pet without harsh side effects.
What Can CBD Help With in Dogs and Cats?
CBD may support pets dealing with:
For Dogs
- Anxiety (separation, fireworks, travel)
- Joint pain and arthritis
- Seizures or neurological concerns
- Nausea or low appetite
- Recovery from illness or surgery
- Restlessness, pacing, or excessive barking
For Cats
- Stress in multi-cat households
- Hiding or changes in behavior
- Appetite support
- Travel or vet visit anxiety
- Pain or inflammation
- Aggression or mood changes
CBD works by helping the body return to homeostasis—a balanced, stable state.
Learn more:
- CBD for dog anxiety
- CBD for joint pain and arthritis in dogs
- CBD for seizures in dogs
- CBD for cat anxiety
How CBD Works in Pets
All mammals have an endocannabinoid system (ECS)—a network of receptors that helps regulate:
- Stress and mood
- Immune response
- Pain perception
- Digestion and appetite
When your pet’s system is out of balance, CBD may help support it by interacting with these receptors and encouraging the body to function more smoothly.
CBD stimulates the body’s endocannabinoid system. The endocannabinoid system (“endo” meaning “internal”) is related to the nervous system and the immune system. It is made up of endocannabinoids (a type of neurotransmitter, like dopamine) and cannabinoid receptors spread throughout the body. Nearly all animals naturally produce endocannabinoids, which regulate the body in many different ways—from stress levels to temperature to digestion and beyond.
When the body’s naturally-occurring production falls behind its needs, supplementing with plant-based cannabinoids—like CBD—can help fill the gaps. Research also suggests that supplementing can coax the body to create more receptors, meaning that the body’s own endocannabinoids will work more effectively.
Hemp vs. Marijuana: What Pet Parents Need to Know
Hemp and marijuana are both types of the cannabis plant, but they are different varieties. Marijuana is very high in euphoria-producing THC, while hemp plants contain virtually no THC but have high levels of beneficial CBD.
Dogs and cats do not process THC the way that humans do, and large quantities are toxic to them. But CBD from hemp is considered safe and well-tolerated by healthy dogs when used according to recommendations.
Choosing the Best CBD for Your Pet
Not all CBD is created equal. Here’s what to look for:
- Third-party lab testing for purity and potency
- Clearly labeled CBD content (in mg)
- Clean, responsibly sourced hemp
- No pesticides or heavy metals
Full-Spectrum vs. Broad-Spectrum vs. CBD Isolate
Understanding the types of CBD can help you choose the right fit:
Full-Spectrum CBD
- Contains cannabinoids + terpenes
- Creates an “entourage effect” for enhanced benefits
- May have a natural, earthy taste
- Contains up to 0.3% THC
Broad-Spectrum CBD
- THC-free
- Still includes beneficial plant compounds
- Milder taste than full-spectrum
CBD Isolate
- Pure CBD only (0% THC)
- Flavorless—great for picky pets
- May require slightly higher doses
How to Give CBD to Dogs and Cats
CBD comes in a few easy-to-use forms:
Oils (Tinctures)
- Mix into food or drop onto treats
- Flexible and precise dosing
Soft Chews
- Convenient and tasty
- Great for daily use
Pro tip:
Try adding CBD oil to a favorite treat or using a pill pocket for easy dosing.
CBD Dosage for Dogs and Cats
CBD dosing varies based on your pet’s size and needs.
General starting guideline:
- 1–5 mg of CBD per 10 lbs of body weight
Example Dog Dosing
- 10 lbs: 1–5 mg
- 30 lbs: 3–15 mg
- 60 lbs: 6–30 mg
- 80 lbs: 8–40 mg
Cats
- Typically 1–5 mg to start
How to dose:
- Start in the middle of the range
- Observe effects within 30–60 minutes
- Adjust gradually as needed
For ongoing support:
- Pain: every ~8 hours
- General anxiety or behavior: 1–2 times daily
Need help finding the right dose? Visit your local All The Best Pet Care store and talk with our team.
Is CBD Safe for Pets?
CBD is generally well-tolerated by healthy dogs and cats when used appropriately.
However:
- Always follow product dosing guidelines
- Consult your veterinarian if your pet is on medication
- Choose only high-quality, pet-specific CBD
References/Further Reading
Grinspoon, P. (2018, August 24). Cannabidiol (CBD): What we know and what we don’t. Harvard Health.
Malone, T. (2021, April 6). CBD, marijuana and hemp: What is the difference among these cannabis products, and which are legal? Michigan State University.
Silver, R. J. (2019). The Endocannabinoid System of Animals. Animals, 9(9), 686.
Varadharaj, S. (2020, October 27). Understanding the endocannabinoid system in cats and dogs. IVC Journal.
