Vets stress that owners should do careful research and choose reputable brands when selecting CBD products for their pets, as reputable products are more likely to be accurately labeled.
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Cannabidiol, or CBD, has become popular in recent years thanks to the marketing of its potential health benefits. So it’s no surprise that pet owners are turning to CBD as a remedy for various ailments of their furry companions.
However, because there is little evidence for the efficacy and safety of CBD in animals, Dr. Amy Savarino, Chief Pharmacist at the Texas A&M School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences’ Veterinary Hospital, explains how owners can evaluate CBD products for their products. pets to ensure they choose a safe and effective product.
“A” is for advertising, “B” is for buyer Account
CBD is a non-psychoactive extract of hemp plants, meaning it does not produce the “high” typically associated with cannabis use, unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a compound found in cannabis that is psychoactive or “high” producer. In contrast, hemp-derived CBD is believed to regulate various physiological processes in the body and is sold in various forms, including oils, candies, and capsules.
“Commercial CBD products advertise very lucrative benefits, claiming to calm your pets’ anxiety, reduce seizures, improve their skin conditions, and relieve joint pain and discomfort,” Savarino said. “We all want the best for our animals, so it seems only natural to add a CBD product to a pet’s daily medication regimen if they suffer from these health issues.”
However, owners should be aware of state laws regarding the use of CBD before incorporating it into their pet’s routine. In states like Texas, for example, hemp-derived CBD products for humans have only recently become legal because they contain less than 0.3% THC, while marijuana-derived CBD remains illegal in because of its higher concentration of THC.
“Due to the different laws and the lack of clarity in the laws of CBD in animal products, CBD reactions in animal patients are still largely unknown,” Savarino said. “Veterinarians can certainly suggest that a patient receive CBD, but we need more research on these products to make better clinical decisions.”
Also, because CBD products are sold as over-the-counter supplements, there are no federal regulations that guarantee the percentage of active ingredients in the products.
“Often, nutraceuticals, any product derived from food sources with additional health benefits, add other ingredients to their blends to make the product work better to give you the desired result,” Savarino explained. “However, a study recently found that of 29 CBD products marketed for pets, four had heavy metal byproducts and only 10 had within 10% of their active ingredient label claim in the product” .
In this case, Savarino emphasizes that owners should carefully research and choose reputable brands when selecting CBD products for their pets, as reputable products are more likely to be accurately labeled.
“C” is for Certificate of Analysis, Communication
Savarino also suggests that owners ask a product’s supplier or manufacturer for a COA or Certificate of Analysis, because having a COA that is up to date with the product’s manufacturing date ensures that ingredient information accurately reflects quality and the current composition of the product. Most reputable companies will provide COAs upon request.
“A COA is like a birth certificate for your product,” Savarino said. “You want to make sure the COA is current with the product you’re selecting because, say, a COA from 1984 isn’t very accurate for a product on the shelf today.”
While owners are responsible for researching and selecting CBD products, it is essential to communicate openly with their veterinarian about administering CBD to their pets, ensuring safe and effective use.
“CBD has unfortunately shown possible drug interactions with other medications a pet may be taking, so you should first discuss which product you will be giving with your vet to confirm that all medications are safe to give at the same time,” Savarino. said “If your pet starts taking CBD, you should only provide the product as directed on the package and call your veterinarian immediately if you notice increased drowsiness, impaired coordination, or unusual behavior after provide CBD to your pet.”
As CBD products gain popularity for their potential benefits in pets, it’s important for owners to tread carefully. The limited medical information available means that pet owners should approach these products with caution to ensure the safety and well-being of their furry friend.
