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When your cat isn’t just a pet but a member of the family, facing their end-of-life stage is heartbreaking. You’ve shared countless cuddles, playtimes, and even some mischief, and you want to ease their discomfort during their final days. One remedy that’s been buzzing around is CBD oil. But what is it? Can it actually provide relief for your dying cat? Most importantly, is it safe?
We’ll dive into the nitty-gritty of CBD oil and its potential benefits for cats that are nearing the end of their journey. We’ll explore what science has to say, what other cat owners are saying, and even how to administer it if you decide it’s the right option for your feline friend.
What is CBD Oil? A Simple Breakdown for Cat Parents
You’ve probably heard the term CBD oil floating around a lot lately. It’s become popular for people looking to chill out or ease pain. But did you know it’s not just for humans? Our four-legged friends can also benefit from this natural compound. Let’s start by understanding what CBD oil really is.
The ABCs of CBD
CBD stands for Cannabidiol. Try saying that three times fast! Let’s just call it CBD. It’s one of many compounds found in the cannabis plant. Now, before you jump to conclusions, no, it won’t get your cat high. That’s because CBD oil is made from hemp, a type of cannabis plant that has very low levels of THC—the stuff that does make you high.
How Is It Made?
Making CBD oil involves extracting the CBD compound from the hemp plant. After that, it’s often mixed with a carrier oil like coconut oil to make it easy to use. The result is a liquid that you can drop into your cat’s food or ideally straight in their mouth.
What Does It Do?
In humans, CBD oil is often used for its calming effects, its ability to reduce pain, and even reduce seizure activity. In pets, the idea is pretty much the same: it may help to relax your cat and make them feel less pain. While research is limited, initial results of studies on CBD in pets are promising.
Types of CBD Products for Cats
Besides the oil, CBD also comes in other forms like treats. Relievet’s treats are made of just two ingredients: CBD and ahi tuna or Atlantic salmon. Talk about quality!
The Bottom Line
So, what is CBD oil? It’s a natural compound that can help with pain and stress in both humans and cats. While it’s not a magical cure, it could be an option for giving your cat some comfort in their final days.
Can CBD Oil Help My Dying Cat?
What Do Pet Owners Say?
Many cat owners who have tried CBD oil for their pets claim it can do wonders in easing pain and reducing anxiety. Some say their cats seem more relaxed, sleep better, and even show less signs of discomfort after taking CBD oil.
What Does Science Say?
Here’s where things get a bit tricky. The science on how CBD oil affects cats is still in its early stages. A few studies on dogs suggest it can help with pain and anxiety, but there’s not much research focused specifically on cats. That said, current research shows that the ECS (the thing which CBD affects in the body) is similar among humans, dogs, cats, and even mice (who are the subject of the majority of tests on CBD).
Vet’s Tip: Always consult your veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment options for your pet.
A Word of Caution
If you do decide to go ahead with giving CBD oil to your cat’s final days, start with a low dose and monitor them closely for any changes in behavior or symptoms. Keep an eye out for potential side effects like lethargy, vomiting, or changes in appetite.
How Do I Give CBD Oil to My Cat?
Step 1: Choose the Right Product
Before you do anything else, make sure you’ve got a high-quality CBD oil that’s suitable for pets. Look for products that are lab-tested and specifically labeled for use in animals. Also look for a product that is USDA Certified Organic, since that means that every step from seed to bottle has been independently verified by the USDA not to include any synthetic solvents or pesticides.
Step 2: Read the Label
This might seem like a no-brainer, but it’s super important. Different CBD oils have different concentrations. That means you’ll need to read the label carefully to figure out how much to give your cat. Make sure you get a products that you can use for at least a month. This will depend on your cat’s weight, and is super easy to figure out using our CBD oil for Cats Dosage Calculator.
Step 3: Measure the Dose
Most CBD oils come with a dropper. Use it to measure the correct dose as per the product label, or by referring to the dosage calculator linked above. An effective dose usually starts off at 1mg/kg and is ideally given twice a day for lasting relief.
Example: For a 10lb cat (4.5kg) 1mg/kg would be 4.5mg per dose twice per day. To last 30 days that would mean 4.5 ✕ 2 ✕ 30 = 270mg, so find a product with at least that much CBD if you want it to last for a month.
Step 4: Administer the Oil
Now, you’ve got a few options:
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Mix it With Food: This is usually the easiest way. Just add the measured amount of CBD oil to a small portion of your cat’s favorite wet food. Make sure they eat it all to get the full dose.
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Directly Into the Mouth: This method ensures your cat gets the full dose. Hold your cat’s head steady and gently insert the dropper into the side of their mouth, between the cheek and gums. Slowly squeeze the dropper to release the oil.
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Add it to Water: Simply put the dose on top of your cat’s water, and keep an eye on it to make sure that they drink it and get the full dose.
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Put it on their Paw: This might sound funny, but it’s a great method to getting cats to take liquids! If you get a dose of CBD oil onto their paw (when they’re not looking) they might get cranky at you, but they’ll also feel compelled to lick it off!
Step 5: Monitor Your Cat
After giving CBD oil, keep an eye on your cat for a while. Look for any changes in behavior or signs of discomfort, which could indicate that the dose needs adjustment.
By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to administering CBD oil to your dying cat as safely and effectively as possible. Remember, it’s all about making those final days a bit more comfortable for your feline friend.
How to Find the Right Product
Here are a few tips to help you find the right CBD product:
- Avoid products with added fillers or unnecessary ingredients. Simplicity is key when it comes to CBD oils or treats for your cat.
- Dosage matters. Ensure the product provides clear dosing instructions based on your cat’s weight. Also make sure that the product is appropriately dosed for your cat’s weight.
In Conclusion
Finding the right CBD oil for your cat takes a bit of research and patience. But with the above guide, you’ll be well-equipped to make an informed choice. Always prioritize your cat’s safety, and consult with your vet before introducing any new supplement if your cat’s condition is fragile.
