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FAQs about CBD and pets
Here at CBD Vets Australia, our medical team and
veterinarians have extended knowledge of CBD, THC and other forms
of medicinal cannabis in relation to Australia’s pets.
Cannabidiol, or CBD, is a phytocannabinoid which comes from the Cannabis plant. It has many medicinal properties including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-seizure, anxiolytic, analgesic and neuroprotective properties. CBD is a non-psychoactive, non-addictive compound which is widely considered to be very safe due to its low toxicity.
CBD interacts with endocannabinoid receptors which are found throughout the body, and mostly in the nervous and immune systems. The endocannabinoid system balances many other systems in the body to maintain homeostasis. Through this mechanism, CBD can cause a wide range of therapeutic effects in the body.
Medicinal cannabis formulations, concentrations and dosages for pets and humans are different. Many human products contain levels of THC and other cannabinoids which are not suitable for animals – for example, dogs are extremely sensitive to THC as they have more receptors in their central nervous system than humans. Furthermore, some excipients and additives in human products may be harmful to animals and cause adverse effects.
There is substantial evidence that medicinal cannabis is a safe and well-tolerated therapy for pets.
The health and wellbeing of Australia’s pets are of the utmost importance to us. The amount of active cannabinoid ingredients in our products are specially formulated for each pet with a custom dosage based on their weight and condition.
Accurate prescribing and administration are paramount so we support vets through education and training, and answer any questions that vets and pet owners may have. Please reach out to us if you have any questions.
No, as CBD does not cause any psychoactive effects. Pure CBD (containing no THC) will not cause any euphoric effects.
Our CBD oils are to be administered orally (by mouth) – either syringed directly into the mouth or mixed with food. We also have flavour enhancers which can be added to improve palatability for those fussier pets (CBD has no distinct taste).
No, despite a lot of misinformation out there! They are derived from different parts of the plant. Hemp seed oil contains omega fatty acids, protein, fibre and other nutrients but negligible amounts of CBD, therefore, it may be considered a nutritional supplement rather than a medicinal product. CBD oil is a medicinal product – CBD works on the endocannabinoid system in the body and elicits a therapeutic effect.
Yes. In Australia, a veterinarian’s prescription is legally required to obtain a CBD product. CBD oils that contain a minimum of 98% CBD and up to 2% other cannabinoids are classified as Schedule 4 substances. Veterinarians may legally prescribe Schedule 4 substances for patients who meet the specific requirements.
Vets, you can register with us here.
There are a lot of CBD products that are sold online that claim to have therapeutic benefits. Any CBD products that are sold without a prescription in Australia are illegal. These products often undergo little to no quality control testing and may contain toxins like solvents or pesticides, as well as varying amounts of cannabinoids – sometimes, no CBD at all! THC above certain concentrations can be toxic or even fatal to dogs, therefore, it is imperative that CBD products come from a reliable, quality supplier to ensure safety.
Written by Emma Delaney, MPharm