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Cannabis and its derivatives have been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. Recently, Cannabidiol (CBD) has gained popularity as a natural treatment for a variety of ailments, both for humans and animals. CBD is a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis plants, and it has shown great promise in treating a wide range of health issues in pets. In this blog, we will discuss the benefits of CBD use in pet food, what health-related issues can be treated by it, and reference any recent studies showing the benefits of CBD in pet food.
First and foremost, it is important to understand that CBD works by interacting with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) present in all mammals, including dogs, cats, and humans. The ECS regulates a variety of physiological processes, such as pain sensation, mood, appetite, and immune response. CBD interacts with the ECS, promoting its natural functions and restoring balance to the body.
One of the most significant benefits of CBD use in pet food is its potential to alleviate pain and inflammation. Many pets, especially dogs, suffer from joint pain and arthritis as they age. CBD has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain in pets.
Another benefit of CBD in pet food is its potential to help with anxiety and stress-related disorders. Many pets suffer from separation anxiety, fear of loud noises, and general anxiety. CBD has been shown to have anxiolytic properties, helping pets feel calmer and more relaxed. It can also help manage phobias, such as fear of thunderstorms, which can be debilitating for some pets.
A recent study published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science showed that dogs who received CBD were rated as being significantly less “stressed,” “sad,” “tense” and “uncomfortable” and more “explorative” during a separation event than dogs who received the placebo.
In addition to pain and anxiety management, CBD has also been shown to have potential in treating seizures and epilepsy in pets. In fact, in 2018, the FDA approved the first CBD-based drug, Epidiolex, for the treatment of seizures in humans. While research is still ongoing, many pet owners have reported positive results in managing seizures and epilepsy in their pets with CBD. According to a 2019 study in the UK, dog owners reported that there was an average of 33% reduction in seizure frequency when compared with the placebo group. A more recent article published in The Veterinary Journal stated the positives of previous trials and recommended that randomized controlled canine trials with large sample sizes are needed to determine the true efficacy of cannabidiol in canine epilepsy.
Furthermore, CBD has shown promise in helping pets with digestive issues, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. CBD can help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, promoting healthy digestion and reducing gastrointestinal distress. It can also help stimulate appetite in pets who may be experiencing a lack of appetite due to illness or other factors.
Recent studies have shown promising results for CBD use in pet food. Another study published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science found that CBD oil was effective in reducing pain and increasing mobility in dogs with osteoarthritis. Another study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association found that CBD oil was safe and effective in treating seizures in dogs with epilepsy.
In conclusion, CBD use in pet food has the potential to provide many health benefits for pets. Studies have shown it can help manage pain and inflammation, anxiety and stress-related disorders, seizures and epilepsy, and digestive issues.
It is important to note that while CBD has shown great promise in treating a variety of health issues in pets, it is essential to use high-quality, lab-tested products. AccuScience Labs, a cannabis testing lab, can provide valuable information on the quality and potency of CBD products. They can test for potency, contaminants, and other factors to ensure that the product is safe and effective for your pet.
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