CBD Cat Treats – A Guide to How to Use Them

Everyone’s heard of CBD by now. It’s become so popular you’re likely to find it at any drug store down the street.

But did you know that it might benefit your feline friend? That’s right, cannabidiol, the main active ingredient found in the hemp plant, is safe for CBD cat treats.

Its mild effects are likely due to the way it binds to receptors in the endocannabinoid system, a system cats have in common with humans. Because these receptors are distributed throughout the feline nervous system, CBD products may help with a wide variety of issues.

But do not be confused; CBD oil, unlike THC, will not get your cat high. Instead, CBD is used to treat a wide range of conditions including arthritis, generalized anxiety, chronic pain, and loss of appetite. If you’re curious about CBD treats for your pet, we have the scoop.

What Are CBD Cat Treats?

CBD cat treats are any cat treat containing cannabidiol, the active ingredient derived from the hemp plant. Today, you can find CBD products made specifically for pets. Look from brands that come recommended by a veterinarian. You can also use CBD oil directly on your pet’s treats, but you’ll need to be more careful with dosing. The general rule of thumb is 0.2mg CBD per pound of bodyweight. And be sure to use pure organic CBD oil.

Is CBD Safe for Cats?

There is little to no evidence that CBD is harmful to humans or pets. Notably, in 2018, the FDA approved a hemp-derived medicine for children with epilepsy. That should say something about its safety for pets.

And recent studies have come to the conclusion that it is safe for cats and dogs. So if you’re already using catnip for some fun zoomies, know that CBD is just as safe; but it should have a calming effect, instead!

Just know that you can’t just give your cat CBD oil formulated for humans, especially if it contains human-centric ingredients. For example, peppermint oil is not safe for cats, even though peppermint flavored CBD oil is delicious for humans!

Reasons Your Kitty Might Need CBD Products

There are myriad reasons cat owners turn to CBD. As its side-effects are mild and its benefits are broad, it has a wide variety of uses. However, the most common reasons include anxiety, inflammation, pain, and cognitive decline.

1. Anxiety

Many cat owners and holistic veterinarians alike turn to CBD to treat cat anxiety. Evidence suggests that CBD has calming effects on mammals, including humans and pets. That’s likely due to the way CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system, a series of receptors distributed throughout the nervous system. CBD also has a related benefit in relieving insomnia.

2. Inflammation

Many owners of old cats with arthritis swear by CBD’s palliative effects. While CBD cannot be marketed to treat the disease, it may show promise as a way to manage symptoms. Make sure to avoid artificial colors when administering all-natural, non-psychoactive CBD to your old cat.

3. Pain

CBD may have a soothing effect on the nervous system, and it shows promise as a pain management treatment. While it doesn’t make the pain go away, it likely works by reducing the brain’s response to the stimulus.

4. Cognitive Decline

Before scientists can link CBD to specific outcomes, early studies must attempt to discover its general mechanisms in the brain. But recent psychopharmacological research suggests CBD acts as a neuro-protectant, and that’s promising news for cats suffering from dementia.

The 5 Best CBD Cat Treats

When considering CBD cat treats, you should look for purity and cat-centric flavors, like chicken flavor or salmon flavor. CBD oil is usually categorized as broad-spectrum and full-spectrum, with the latter being the most potent.
You should also ensure that your treat is THC-free. Other factors to consider are the ethics and sustainability of the brands you trust. Without further ado, here are our five favorite CBD cat treats.

1. Holistapet CBD Cat Treats

Your cat may just drool over these salmon flavor snacks! But that isn’t the only reason you should consider Holistapet cat treats. Made with full-spectrum CBD and zero THC, you know you’re getting the pure stuff. They’re also non-GMO, gluten and dairy-free, and crunchy to boot. Holistapet also includes zero artificial ingredients or yucky animal by-products.

2. Paw CBD Soft Chews

Want something your cat can chew on? Look no further than Paw CBD’s veterinarian-formulated soft chews, boasting 1 mg of broad-spectrum CBD in each chicken flavor chew. Did we mention it also contains catnip? Your cat just might do a flip.

3. Populum Zen Pets Hemp CBD Chews

Formulated with wild salmon, apples, and full-spectrum CBD, Zen Pets CBD soft chews may be a little pricey but your cat will take heed. Besides their pure CBD content, these soft chews also contain nutritious hemp oil (yes, they’re different).

4. MediPets CBD Cat Treats

Designed to support your cat’s sharp canines, these chicken-flavored CBD treats serve a dual purpose! Plus, they source their CBD from organic US farmers. Your cat may not notice, or will they?

5. American Green CBD Cat Treats

Touting its “home-made recipe” and fresh-baked organic ingredients, you can be sure this organic American brand will suit your feline queen. She’ll always have the munchies for these tuna-flavored crunchies.

CBD Cat Treats: FAQs

To round out this article, here are some questions we get a lot.

Does Public Goods sell CBD Cat Treats?

They’re in the works! We’ve been researching and dialing in the perfect formula before we release it to the public. Stay tuned.

What are the benefits of CBD oil for cats?

While evidence remains anecdotal, pet owners and holistic vets alike tout its ability to ease inflammation, anxiety, chronic pain, and loss of appetite.

Should I talk to my vet before giving my cat CBD?

Yes, of course! While no two vets will give you the same recommendation, their expertise will be sure to guide your decision, especially as it relates to your cat’s specific needs. And don’t stop there; talk to several vets to round out your decision.

Wrapping It Up

Treats go beyond your cat’s daily cat kibble, but we do have a guide for grain-free cat food, too. They’re a great way to bond with your cat. Fans of our freeze-dried minnow treats can attest! Whatever your cat may be struggling with, CBD treats may just have the effect you’re hoping for.