Elder Paws, New Comforts: Understanding CBD for Senior Cats

Hello, dear feline aficionados! If you’ve been browsing pet wellness topics recently, you’ve likely stumbled upon the benefits of CBD for our four-legged friends. Today, let’s delve into how CBD can offer support to our aging cats. ????

A Quick CBD Primer

Before diving deep, it’s crucial to understand what CBD is. Short for cannabidiol, CBD 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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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. CBD has been suggested to stimulate appetite, ensuring that senior cats maintain a healthy weight and get the nutrients they need.
4. Neuroprotective Properties: Preliminary research in humans and rodents suggests that CBD might have neuroprotective properties. This could potentially benefit senior cats experiencing cognitive decline.
5. General Comfort: Aging can bring about various discomforts for cats, from digestive issues to general aches. CBD’s potential analgesic properties can help in enhancing the overall comfort of elderly felines.

Administering CBD To Senior Cats: Safety First!

Choosing the right product and dosage is key. Always:

1. Consult a Veterinarian: Before introducing any CBD product, chat with your vet. They can provide guidance tailored to your feline’s specific needs.
2. 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.
3. Start 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. Here’s to many more contented purrs and cozy lap moments with our senior feline companions! ????????

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/