10 Common Questions About CBD for Pets Answered

Looking for a natural way to help your pet feel their best? CBD (cannabidiol) is gaining popularity among pet owners for its ability to ease anxiety, relieve pain, and support overall wellness—without any “high.”

CBD works with your pet’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which helps regulate mood, pain, appetite, and immune function. When used correctly, it can improve their quality of life, whether they’re dealing with joint discomfort, stress, or age-related issues.

But how safe is it? What’s the right dosage? How do you choose the best product? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know so you can confidently decide if CBD is the right choice for your furry friend.

What Is CBD and How Does It Work for Pets?

CBD is a naturally occurring compound found in the cannabis plant, specifically in hemp varieties. It’s one of over 100 cannabinoids present in cannabis, but unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD is non-psychoactive, meaning, it doesn’t produce the “high” associated with marijuana use. This element of CBD makes it an appealing supplement for pets as it offers various therapeutic benefits.

This is achieved by regulating various physiological processes like pain sensation, mood and stress response, immune function, sleep cycle, appetite, digestion, and memory. When CBD enters your pet’s system it modifies the receptors’ ability to bind to cannabinoids, it activates other receptors that can influence pain, anxiety, mood, and receptors that may affect bone density and blood pressure.

Is CBD Safe for Pets?

The current body of evidence suggests that when administered properly, CBD is generally well-tolerated by dogs and cats. Studies suggest CBD oil is safe for dogs when given twice daily for four weeks. Studies have also shown the use of CBD in dogs with Epilepsy potentially reduces the seizure frequency in some dogs. As a result, many vets have now started to recognize CBD for pets to be beneficial. 

Even then, it is very important to administer CBD products to your furry friends in adequate dosage. You have to closely look at several factors like weight, size, the condition being addressed, and product concentration, before deciding the dosage. Overdosing may cause an upset stomach or wobbliness. We suggest that you talk to your vet to understand how you can use CBD products to make your pets’ lives easier.

What Are the Benefits of CBD for Pets?

When administered intentionally, CBD products can be beneficial for your pets in numerous ways. Here are some commonly observed ones:

Pain relief: CBD’s pain-relieving properties help reduce chronic pain and joint stiffness in dogs while decreasing inflammation in the affected joints. 

Anxiety reduction: Pets often face issues like separation anxieties, noise phobia, travel anxiety, uneasiness due to changes in the environment, and of course veterinary visits. CBD for pet anxiety helps calm anxious pets by affecting the serotonin receptors in the brain.

Improved mobility: Beyond anxiety and pain relief, CBD for pets is also beneficial for health and mobility in various ways by supporting cartilage and joint functions, reducing joint inflammation,  providing comfort during movement, and potentially slowing down the progression of joint deterioration.

Arthritis management: For pets with arthritis, it helps reduce inflammation in joints, and its antioxidant properties protect joint tissues. 

Stabilize neurons: For seizures, CBD may help stabilize neurons that would otherwise fire erratically. Neuroinflammation can contribute to seizures, and CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties may help address this factor.

What Types of CBD Products Are Available for Pets?

There are several ways to give your pet CBD, and the best option depends on their preferences and needs. CBD oil is one of the most popular choices because it’s fast-acting and allows for precise dosing. You can:

• Give it directly using a dropper (if your pet cooperates).
• Mix it into their food or treats.

Things to consider: Some pets don’t like the taste, and it requires careful measuring to get the dosage right.

How Do I Choose the Right CBD Product for My Pet?

Not all CBD is created equal, and with so many options out there, picking the right one can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry, I’ve got you! Here’s what to look for:

Organically Grown Hemp: No pesticides, no junk — just pure, high-quality CBD.
Healthy Base: While MCT oil is commonly used as a base for human cannabis tinctures, Wild Salmon Oil has a lot more health benefits for dogs and cats, and your pet will LOVE the taste. Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil is a natural source for the essential omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA, which can help with brain health, coat health and more.
Third-Party Testing: Look for lab tests that confirm what’s actually in the bottle — potency, purity, and no weird contaminants.

Sounds like a lot to keep track of, right? That’s why finding a reliable brand can make life so much easier. TribeTokes does all the hard work for you, offering high-quality, lab-tested CBD that’s safe for your furry friend.

Oh, and one last thing—always check the label! Look for the total CBD content, CBD per serving, and concentration. Because let’s be real, guessing doses isn’t fun (or safe) for anyone. 

How Much CBD Should I Give My Pet?

Getting the right CBD dosage for your pet is super important. It affects how well it works and keeps your furry friend feeling their best. Too little might not do anything, while too much could cause mild side effects.

Here’s what to consider when dosing CBD:
Size & Weight: Bigger pets usually need a higher dose.
Breed & Sensitivity: Some breeds may be more sensitive to CBD.
Health Condition: Anxiety, pain, and seizures may require different dosing approaches.

General Rule of Paw: Start low and slow. Begin with a small dose based on your pet’s weight and gradually increase if needed. If you’re unsure, your vet is your best guide to finding the right dosage for your pet’s specific needs!

Are There Any Side Effects of CBD for Pets?

CBD is generally safe for pets, but like anything new, it’s good to watch for possible side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but knowing what to look for can help you keep your furry friend comfortable. 

Common Side Effects

Drowsiness or Lethargy: Your pet might get a little extra sleepy.

Dry Mouth: Less drool than usual (so maybe fewer slobbery kisses!).

Digestive Issues: Occasional upset tummy or loose stools.

Mild Drop in Blood Pressure: This could cause slight dizziness, but it’s rare.

What to Do?

• Keep an eye on your pet for the first 4-6 hours after giving CBD.
• Track any changes. Jot down observations in a simple journal.
• Adjust the dosage if needed, and when in doubt, check with your vet!

A little monitoring at the start goes a long way in making sure CBD is a great fit for your pet. 

Can CBD Get My Pet High?

Nope! Properly sourced CBD won’t get your pet high.

CBD and THC come from the same plant, but they work very differently. THC is the compound that causes a “high,” while CBD is non-psychoactive and simply helps with things like pain, anxiety, and inflammation. To be safe, always choose THC-free or low-THC CBD products to avoid any unwanted effects like dizziness or paranoia.

How Long Does It Take for CBD to Work on Pets?

It depends on the type of CBD product and your pet’s unique traits. Here’s a quick breakdown:

 Oils & Tinctures: 15-30 minutes if given under the tongue, 45-90 minutes if mixed with food.
Treats & Chews: Typically 45-90 minutes to kick in.
Topicals (Creams & Balms): 15-45 minutes when applied directly to the skin.

Other factors like your pet’s size, weight, metabolism, and whether they have an empty or full stomach can also affect how quickly CBD takes effect. Keep an eye on them and adjust as needed!

Where Can I Buy High-Quality CBD for Pets?

When choosing CBD, always check for:
Third-Party Lab Testing: Confirms potency, purity, and safety.
THC Content Verification: Ensures only trace amounts of THC (so no “high” for your pet!).
Transparency & Consistency: So you know exactly what you’re getting every time.

If you’re looking for safe and reliable CBD for your pet, TribeTokes has you covered! They offer a variety of products, from tinctures to gummies, all with clear dosage instructions to make things easy. With TribeTokes, you can feel confident that your furry friend is getting the best!