Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-psychoactive product that is beneficial for pets just as it is for humans. With CBD, you can regulate an elderly pet’s nausea, anxiety, pain, among other problems. Though the research on CBD effects on pets is still ongoing, veterinarians are already recommending CBD due to its therapeutic effects.
Since CBD is already legal across 50 states, obtaining a dose for your elderly pet is easy. According to a report by the Journal of the American Holistic Veterinary Medicine Association (JAHVMA), 58.8% of dog owners are using CBD products for their dogs. Given the numerous benefits of CBD, you need to learn how to dose CBD for your pets, especially elderly ones.
How to Prepare A CBD Dose for Your Elderly Pets
To date, there are no formal regulations on CBD dosage for pets. However, the general recommendation is that you should give 0.2 mg or ml of CBD per pound of your pet’s body weight. The formula to calculate the CBD dosage is as follows:
0.2 x [your dog’s body weight, in pounds] = mg/ml of CBD per day
It is safer to start slow and gradually increase the dosage depending on your pet's needs. Unless your pet's weight changes, stick to a constant dosage of CBD. The best part about cannabidiol is that your pet will not develop tolerance as with THC.
However, every CBD product you purchase will come with a recommended dosage. Some products have a higher CBD concentration, hence the need to change your dosage depending on the product. You can use the dosage guidelines along with instructions from your veterinarian to administer CBD to your pet.
The dosage may also vary depending on the severity of the situation. After administering the lowest dosage, wait between 30 to 60 minutes and observe the results. If nothing changes, increase the pet’s dosage.
What Are the Risks of Dosing Your Pets with CBD?
The most significant risk for giving your elderly pet CBD is a THC overdose. Pets such as dogs have more THC receptors in their brains than human beings. When they ingest THC, dogs can experience adverse side effects such as increased anxiety or vomiting. For this reason, pets should only ingest CBD. It is, therefore, essential for you to be selective with your sources of CBD pet products. After ingesting THC, your pet might be immobile. If you suspect toxicity, take your pet to the vet immediately.
Dosing CBD also has several side effects:
Drowsiness: Your elderly pet will be drowsy and calm when the CBD kicks in. If the pet is extremely sluggish, reduce the dosage.
Dry mouth: If the dosage is high, your pet will also have a dry mouth. If you notice your pet drinking more water after a CBD dosage, consider reducing it.
Decreased blood pressure: CBD results in a decrease in blood pressure, which may cause light-headedness in your pet.
What CBD Products Exist for Pets?
CBD products for pets come in different forms. These include:
- CBD oil
- CBD tinctures
- CBD oral and topical sprays
- CBD dog treats
- CBD balms
How is CBD Administered to Pets?
Most pet owners administer CBD orally to their pets. You can do so together with other drugs, or add it to the food. The best method of administration depends on your pet’s preference. Usually, adding CBD oil to their food is the easiest way. If you are a beginner, try using oil tinctures. They have a dropper, which makes it easier for you to measure the CBD dosage. Tinctures will also help you adjust the dosage accordingly.
If your pet is struggling with ailments such as arthritis, you can acquire CBD balms. You can provide your elderly pets with a soothing massage as you apply the balm on their skin to provide pain relief. Most pets might not enjoy having sprays on their faces. You can purchase the CBD spray for use during thunderstorms, car rides, or emergencies. If your pet is suddenly anxious, a quick CBD spray on their face or mouth will provide instant relief.
Absorption of orally administered tinctures is faster than other CBD products. Powders and oils pass through the digestive system, which reduces their bioavailability. If you want CBD to reach your pet’s bloodstream quickly, tinctures are your best bet.
How to Buy Safe CBD Products for Your Pets
As earlier explained, pets react negatively to THC. It is, therefore, imperative that you purchase CBD products free of THC and other compounds that can harm your pet. CBD products are legal in fifty states. You can freely travel to a shop or buy your CBD pet products online and have them shipped to your home.
However, the federal government does not regulate CBD products. The presence of discrepancies between federal and state laws gives way to unscrupulous businesses that will label unfit CBD products. It is, therefore, your responsibility to ensure that you purchase the products from well-reviewed shops. When preparing to administer CBD to your pet, use the following checklist.
- Do not administer human products
Human beings and pets react differently to THC products. Avoid using human products on your pet in case they contain THC.
- Look for third-party testing
Purchase products from manufacturers that subject their products to third-party testing. Reputable manufacturers will use third party labs for their CBD products to verify the contents. They will also include a certificate that displays the amount of CBD in a pet product.
- Follow the dosage guidelines
Generally, 1mg/ml to 2mg/ml for every 5 pounds of your pet’s weight is sufficient. However, the dosage will vary depending on the potency of a product and the condition of your elderly pets.
- Consult your vet
Talk to your veterinarian on the safety of using CBD for your pet. Your vet can recommend a dosage based on your pet’s age, health, among other conditions.
Conclusion
If your elderly pets are struggling with nausea, anxiety, insomnia, arthritis, or inflammation, CBD may be the perfect solution. You can purchase both flavored and unflavored products from the BWell Market today.