Understanding CBD for Senior Cats

Since all mammals have an endocannabinoid system, senior cats can benefit from full spectrum hemp extract (CBD oil) just as senior dogs can. There are a ton of benefits for them including decreased inflammation, improved thinking skills, reduced anxiety, and a healthy appetite.

A Quick CBD Primer

Before diving deep, it’s crucial to understand what CBD is. CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a compound extracted from hemp plants. Unlike THC, which is the psychoactive component found in marijuana, CBD doesn’t get animals (or humans) high. Instead, it’s celebrated for its potential therapeutic effects.

Why Consider CBD for Senior Cats?

As our cats age, they can face a host of health and behavioral issues, much like humans. Here’s where CBD might lend a helping paw:

Joint and Mobility Issues

As cats age, they may experience joint pain or stiffness, often due to conditions like arthritis. CBD is believed to possess anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate pain and improve mobility in some animals.

Anxiety and Behavioral Changes

Senior cats can undergo behavioral changes, potentially due to cognitive decline, changes in their environment, or pain they might be experiencing. Some pet owners and veterinarians believe CBD may have calming effects that help with anxiety and stress in cats.

Appetite Stimulation

Loss of appetite is a common issue in aging cats, whether due to dental issues, changes in metabolism, or the side effects of medications. Full-spectrum CBD has been suggested as a way to stimulate appetite, ensuring that senior cats maintain a healthy weight and get the nutrients they need.

Neuroprotective Properties

Early research done on people and rodents shows that CBD might have properties that protect nerve cells. This is important because it suggests that CBD could help older cats who are starting to have problems with their thinking and memory.

Being neuroprotective means CBD could help keep nerve cells from getting damaged or working less effectively. For cats that are getting older, this might mean they have a slower start to problems that come with age, like forgetting things, getting confused, or acting differently.

General Comfort

As cats get older, they often start to have different kinds of discomfort, like stomach problems or general body aches. CBD might be able to help with these issues because it’s thought to have pain-relieving properties. This could make older cats feel more comfortable overall.

CBD might work to ease their pain, which means these senior cats could be more relaxed and less bothered by the discomforts that come with age. It’s like giving them a helping hand to feel better as they enjoy their golden years.

Administering CBD to Senior Cats: Safety First!

Choosing the right product and dosage is key. Always:

Consult a Veterinarian

Before introducing any CBD product, chat with your vet. They can provide guidance tailored to your feline’s specific needs.

Opt for Cat-Specific Products

Choose a CBD oil or tincture specifically formulated for cats, ensuring no harmful additives are present. Look for a Certificate of Analysis to find out exactly what’s in the bottle.

Start Low and Go Slow

Start low and go slow while monitoring your cat’s reaction, adjusting as necessary.

Potential Side Effects of CBD For Senior Cats

While CBD is generally well-tolerated, some cats might experience dry mouth, drowsiness, or, in rare cases, diarrhea. Again, keeping a close watch during the initial stages of CBD introduction can help you spot and address any unusual behaviors or reactions.

Purr-spectives on CBD

Our senior cats, with their graceful aging and gentle purrs, deserve all the comfort we can offer. CBD, with its potential benefits, might just be the supplement to provide that added layer of support. As always, partnering with your vet ensures the journey is both safe and effective.

To read further into this topic, we recommend the following:

https://www.morrisanimalfoundation.org/article/cannabidiol-cbd-use-dogs-and-cats

https://www.annualreviews.org/doi/10.1146/annurev-animal-081122-070236

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33769105/