CBD usage in the animal sector continues to grow. Here's why.

• Author: LEO GIOSUÈ
• Published date: 27 September 2021
• Publication title: Jerusalem Post, The: Web Edition Articles (Israel)

The increased usage is mainly due to the widespread availability of CBD-based products marketed for animals now more than ever before, including treats and supplements that feature patented product technology.

Many pet owners seek CBD products for their beloved pets because of perceived benefits, even though there is still a lack of hard scientific evidence that CBD-based effects are beneficial to animals.

The Blossoming Hemp Trend

One trend gaining traction in the U.S. is hemp production, which has become legal at the federal level, but with complicated state-by-state regulations that vary depending on whether or not the plant being produced is marijuana or hemp. CBD products are typically derived from hemp, but it is important to note that under current federal laws, CBD can only come from hemp acquired through legal means.

In addition to being marketed for their natural calming qualities, CBD pet treats have been promoted as helping with muscle and joint pain. They provide relief from arthritis and other ailments common among older pets or those who put on more pounds than they can easily manage. A growing number of CBD products are also marketed to relieve anxiety, especially around events like fireworks.

The 2016 National Pet Owners Survey by the American Pet Products Association (APPA) found that one in five U.S. pet owners used either a dog or cat supplement that featured CBD oil and other cannabinoids and terpenes, up from just one in ten in 2015.

Nearly half of all CBD-related products were marketed as solutions to ease anxiety.

The Packaged Facts report also found that CBD-containing pet supplements were the most popular (salves, treats, and oils) and, with nearly 60 percent of those surveyed who bought these products saying they'd used them on their dogs. Only 12 percent had used them on cats, but because there are so many more cats than dogs in the country, that amounted to a significant number.

Effects of CBD on Pets: Unravelling Facts from Fiction

But what do we know about how and whether CBD affects the health and behavior of our pets?

According to some veterinarians, positive anecdotes are not enough. They urge pet owners to seek out veterinary guidance if they are considering using CBD on their animals. Veterinarians say that...