Medicinal cannabis has become a popular topic of conversation in the veterinary industry. Yet, it’s still in its infancy when it comes to using this natural therapy in a clinical setting for animals (including birds) – small and large!
If you haven’t yet started prescribing it and are keen to learn more, this article is for you.
We have gathered all the frequently asked questions that come our way at CBD Vets Australia, included some links if you want to delve into the details even further.
What is CBD?
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 that is widely considered to be very safe due to its low toxicity.
How does CBD Work in the animal body?
CBD interacts with endocannabinoid receptors, 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.
How does medicinal cannabis for pets differ from the product given to humans?
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.
Is medicinal cannabis safe for pets?
There is substantial evidence that medicinal cannabis is a safe and well-tolerated therapy for pets.
Accurate prescribing and administration are paramount, which is why at CBA Vets Australia, we support vets through education and training.
The amount of active cannabinoid ingredients in our products is specially formulated for each pet with a custom dosage based on their weight and condition.
Will animals feel high on CBD?
No, as CBD does not cause any psychoactive effects. Pure CBD (containing no THC) will not cause any euphoric effects.
How do animals take medicinal cannabis?
CBD oils from CBD Vets Australia 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).
Is CBD oil the same as hemp seed oil?
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.
Why is a prescription required?
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.
If you are interested in prescribing, learn more here and register to prescribe here.
Is CBD oil sold online safe?
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.
What animals can be treated with CBD?
CBD can be administered to most animals however the most common are cats and dogs. We do know of cases of CBD being used successfully with birds and “pocket pets”, and research has been undertaken on larger animals like elephants as well!
What indications do veterinarians tend to prescribe CBD for?
The health conditions in which CBD can be used either on its own or as an adjunct therapy include:
- pain,
- anxiety,
- epilepsy,
- arthritis,
- skin conditions and allergies,
- diabetes,
- gastrointestinal issues,
- cancer, and
- palliative care.
CBD has traditionally been used for osteoarthritis and pain in animals, but recently, other common uses include anxiety such as travel anxiety and ageing-related anxiety. CBD also reduces pruritus in allergy control, and it is often used in palliative care as both a pain killer and mood modifier to improve wellbeing. CBD is also a great appetite stimulator, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory which can be helpful in kidney disease.
Visit our blog to read more on indications and health outcomes.
If you have further questions about prescribing CBD to animals in your clinic, please feel free to get in touch at info@cbdvetsaustralia.com.au
