Best CBD Oil for Seizures in Cats
Is your cat suffering from seizures? CBD Clinicals has gathered pertinent information about the benefits of CBD oil and how this compound may help manage your feline friend’s symptoms and improve its overall wellness.
Best CBD Oil for Seizures in Cats 2024
- NuLeaf Naturals Full Spectrum Hemp CBD Pet Oil Best Organic
- Honest Paws Wellness Oil for Cats Best CBD Purity
- 4 Corners Cannabis Pet Tincture Best High Potency
- HolistaPet Full Spectrum CBD Oil for Dogs and Cats Most Natural
- CBDistillery CBD Pet Tincture Best Value For Full Spectrum CBD
Compare the Best CBD Oil for Seizures in Cats in 2022
Best CBD Oil for Seizures in Cats
1. NuLeaf Naturals Full Spectrum Hemp CBD Pet Oil
cbdc overall score
5.0
CBDC Evaluation Table/Score
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Pure CBD hemp | No other flavors |
| All natural |
Overview
CBD for dogs, cats and other four-legged friends! Our product is concentrated to approximately 60mg cannabinoids per milliliter of oil. While this product is designed for pets, it’s great for humans, too.
2. Honest Paws Wellness Oil for Cats
cbdc overall score
4.2
CBDC Evaluation Table/Score
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Made from 100% organic, non-GMO, and locally grown hemp | Available in the US only |
| 30-day money-back guarantee | Limited information on the company |
| Free shipping for orders over $49.95 | |
| Expedited delivery option is available |
Overview
Product is organic full-spectrum hemp oils are free of GMOs, soy, corn and other contaminants. It is third-party tested for purity and potency. designed to relieve joint pains and stiffness associated with strenuous activities, natural aging, or conditions such as arthritis.
3. 4 Corners Cannabis Pet Tincture
cbdc overall score
5.0
CBDC Evaluation Table/Score
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Has a wide variety of CBD strengths | A bit expensive |
| Free shipping on $100 and up | Incomplete lab test results |
Overview
4 Corners Cannabis Pet Tinctures are generous on their options since there are different sizes and strengths available for you exact needs. The flavor peanut butter is available perfect for pets who are picky when it comes to eating.
4. HolistaPet Full Spectrum CBD Oil for Dogs and Cats
cbdc overall score
4.8
CBDC Evaluation Table/Score
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 100% natural | A little bit pricey compared to other brands |
| Formulated specifically for Pets | |
| Organic Superfoods +CBD |
Overview
HolistaPet CBD Oil only use all-natural, non-GMO organic & vegan ingredients and never put any wheat, animal by-products, cornmeal, artificial flavors or colors in any of the products.
5. CBDistillery CBD Pet Tincture
cbdc overall score
4.2
CBDC Evaluation Table/Score
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 60-Day Satisfaction Guarantee | Dropper is a bit shaky |
| Hemp seed oil is safe for pets and aids in easy digestion | |
| Oil extracted from aerial plant parts of US grown industrial hemp | |
| Sourced from non-GMO industrial hemp grown in the USA through natural farming practices |
Overview
CBDistillery’s Full Spectrum CBD Oil Pet Tinctures were made with your pets in mind. Formulated with cold-pressed hemp seed oil, your pets can now enjoy all of the same benefits of CBD that you do.
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How CBD May Help With Seizures in Cats
Seizures in cats are described as sudden surges of uncontrollable motor activity, also called convulsions, which last for a short amount of time. This activity may be caused by a momentary disturbance within the normal brain functions(1).
This nervous system disorder may affect 1 to 3% of the general cat population(2).
Cannabidiol, famously known as CBD, is a cannabis compound that may contain anti-inflammatory, anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing), and anti-epileptic properties(3).
Moreover, studies have indicated that CBD may have health benefits that may be useful in managing different medical conditions like anxiety, chronic pain, and cancer(4).
According to a 2019 animal study, CBD may help normalize brain rhythms and reduce seizures in Angelman syndrome(5), a rare genetic condition affecting the nervous system’s development.
Some of the symptoms of this syndrome are difficulty in walking and balancing and the occurrence of seizures(6).
All mammals’ endocannabinoid systems (ECS) work the same way(7), so even though the mentioned study was done on mice, CBD’s purported therapeutic benefits may also potentially apply to cats with seizures.
The ECS consists of cannabinoids and cannabinoid receptors in the body. This system is in charge of maintaining homeostasis (balance).
CBD interacts with the body’s ECS through cannabinoid receptors 1 and 2 (CB1 and CB2), located in the nervous and immune systems.
CB1 and CB2 receptors also exist in cats’ bodies(8).
CB1 receptors regulate motor function, memory processing, pain sensation, appetite, and mood, while CB2 receptors trigger the anti-inflammatory response that reduces pain and tissue damage(9).
Still, there is a lack of studies on seizures in cats. Therefore, it is best to consult with your veterinarian before using CBD on your pet.
Benefits of Using CBD for Seizures in Cats
Since the ECS in mammals operates the same way(10), CBD’s purported therapeutic benefits indicated in human and animal studies may also be promising in felines.
Cannabidiol may contain anticonvulsant properties, based on a study in animal models(11).
The study also suggested that CBD diminished the number of animal subjects experiencing tonic-clonic seizures(12).
Additionally, a clinical study in 2019 investigated the effects of oral CBD administration for managing seizure frequency in dogs suffering from idiopathic epilepsy(13).
Twelve dogs were given 2.5mg of CBD-infused oil twice daily for twelve weeks. Results showed that the dogs that received cannabidiol had a significant reduction in seizure frequency compared to those given a placebo(14).
Research on CBD’s medicinal properties may be promising. However, a specific study regarding the effectiveness of CBD on cat seizures is still needed.
It is best to talk to your veterinarian before using CBD for your cat’s seizure or any of its medical conditions.
How to Administer CBD Oil to Your Cat
There are different CBD product forms that cat owners may give their feline friends, such as(15):
- CBD tinctures
- Edibles
- Topicals
CBD tinctures may be delivered sublingually (under the tongue) or added to your cat’s food. This form also generally comes with a dropper for a measured CBD dosage administration to cats.
In order to dilute the CBD concentrate, tinctures are usually mixed with carrier oils like medium-chain triglycerides or MCT oil, coconut oil, or hempseed oil.
Meanwhile, edibles may come in the form of cat treats, biscuits, and chews, which are administered orally. This method is a convenient way to give pets CBD, especially if they are picky eaters(16).
Other CBD formats that can be used to administer the compound include CBD topicals that may be applied to the cat’s skin and for joint pains(17).
Some topicals for pets include creams, massage oils, and balms.
It is important to note that veterinarians are not allowed to recommend, prescribe, or administer CBD to their clients by law. Still, pet owners are free to start the conversation with their vets regarding the use of CBD for their cats(18).
CBD Oil Dosage for Cats
The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) has not authorized the use of CBD to treat any medical condition in cats(19).
Thus, there is no set CBD dosage for feline seizures.
However, according to a 2019 study, eight cats were given a dose of 2 mg of CBD-infused fish oil, and the results indicated that hemp-based CBD may be relatively safe for healthy cats(20).
Note that the findings on this research were inconclusive and were only done on healthy cats.
Still, to know the accurate CBD oil dosage for your feline friend with seizures, it is best to consult a veterinarian experienced in cannabis use.
How Long Does CBD Take to Help With Seizures in Cats?
How long it takes for cannabidiol to help with seizures in cats depends on factors such as the CBD product’s potency, the administration method, the feline’s body weight, and the specific health issue.
Studies on CBD for felines are limited. Additionally, most research on how fast the compound takes effect has been primarily done on humans.
Keep in mind that even though cats also have an ECS, the animal’s biology and size are different from humans’.
How Long Will CBD Help With Seizures in Cats?
No studies have determined how long CBD’s effects on cats with seizures last.
However, a 2019 research indicated that the compound’s half-life for a 2mg dose of CBD per kilogram of a cat’s body weight is around 1.5 hours(21).
Half-life refers to the period it takes for a medication’s efficacy to be reduced to 50%.
How to Choose the Best CBD Oil for Cats With Seizures
Due to various brands offering high-quality CBD oil and CBD-derived pet products, pet parents may find it challenging to choose the best CBD products that may help improve their pets’ quality of life.
Buying Guide
Below are some elements that may help you decide on the best CBD oil for cats with seizures:
CBD Extracts
Full-spectrum CBD oil contains all the extracts and compounds of the cannabis plant, like cannabinoids, flavonoids, terpenes, and a concentration of less than 0.3% tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)(22).
Flavonoids are plant compounds that contain anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties(23), while terpenes provide the plant’s distinct flavor and aroma(24).
THC is the psychoactive compound of cannabis plants that causes a euphoric high(25).
Meanwhile, broad-spectrum CBD oil contains similar compounds and cannabinoids as full-spectrum CBD oil, except for THC.
Lastly, CBD isolates are a pure form of cannabidiol.
However, it is essential to note that THC may induce urinary incontinence, mild sedation, or ataxia in pets(26).
Therefore, pet owners may opt for THC-free options such as broad-spectrum CBD products for their furry friends.
Extraction Methods
CBD manufacturers use different extraction methods when obtaining hemp extracts. Steam distillation, ethanol, natural solvent, and carbon dioxide (CO2) extraction are commonly used techniques.
The most utilized process is CO2 extraction, where compressed CO2 is used as the extraction solvent(27). This method is also considered the cleanest(28).
Third-party Lab Testing
CBD products should undergo a comprehensive evaluation through third-party lab testing.
These third-party laboratories examine CBD products for contaminants, like heavy metals or pesticides, that may endanger your pet’s health.
Additionally, CBD brands that produce quality products should show their certificates of analysis (COA) on their websites.
COAs refer to the lab results from third-party laboratories. These certificates show the actual cannabinoid content of the CBD products.
In the United States (USA), Colorado Healing Acres and HolistaPet are some brands that also sell CBD pet products.
Ingredients
It is pertinent to assess the ingredients of CBD products and note ingredients that may induce allergic reactions in your cat.
Some CBD treats or chews may contain preservatives, so it is best to opt for products derived from non-GMO or organic hemp.
CBD pet products may also have additives such as carrier oils. Regularly utilized carrier oils are coconut oil, MCT oil, and hempseed oil.
Remember that hempseed oil is different from hemp oil.
Hempseed oil is extracted from hemp seeds, does not contain CBD, and is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. On the other hand, hemp oil or CBD oil is an essential oil from the hemp plant(29).
Risks and Side Effects of Using CBD for Seizures in Cats
CBD does not pose any major or detrimental side effects on animals unless the pet is given high amounts of the compound(30).
The usual side effects of CBD on pets are vomiting, diarrhea, lack of appetite, and lethargy. Ataxia may also occur if pets ingest high doses of CBD(31).
Ataxia is described as the abnormal movement of the torso, legs, and head.
Is CBD Safe When Used in Cats With Seizures?
Many veterinarians recommend CBD use in pets because of the compound’s purported analgesic, anti-anxiety, and anti-seizure benefits(32).
However, it is vital to remember that most vets in the United States are not allowed to prescribe or administer CBD(33).
Still, pet owners are free to initiate a conversation regarding the use of CBD for their pets.
However, the scientific information regarding the safety and efficacy of CBD oil when used for seizures in cats is still inadequate.
CBD products that contain high THC concentrations may induce cannabis intoxication in pets(34). Therefore, caution should be exercised when giving your furry friends a high amount of CBD.
Cannabis intoxication in cats may cause pupil dilation, excessive drooling or vomiting, disorientation, hyperactivity, and seizures(35).
Moreover, human-grade CBD products may not be suitable for cats because the compound has different formulations from pet CBD products.
Pet owners are encouraged to initiate a conversation with their veterinarian before purchasing and using CBD products on their cats.
Legality of CBD
The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) has not endorsed the use of CBD for cats due to the inconclusive and insufficient clinical studies regarding the safety and efficacy of CBD products on animals(36).
The use of cannabis and other cannabis derivatives on humans is federally legal in the United States(37) if the compound has less than 0.3% THC concentration.
However, there may be different regulations for CBD use in pets. For instance, drugs containing CBD may be used for pets only under a valid veterinarian-client-patient relationship or if the pet is suffering due to health issues(38).
Thus, before buying and using CBD products on your feline friends, it is best to review the laws and regulations involving CBD use in pets.
Additionally, veterinarians are not allowed to administer, prescribe, or recommend CBD to their clients due to federal laws. However, pet owners are free to initiate the conversation with their vets regarding CBD use in cats(39).
On the other hand, veterinarians in Nevada can administer and recommend CBD products as long as the compound has less than 0.3% THC(40).
Product Frequently
Asked Questions
-
How can CBD help with seizures in cats?
Seizures in cats are a nervous system disorder that may affect 1 to 3% of the feline population(41).
Studies show that CBD or CBD oil may help with seizures in cats due to the compound containing anti-inflammatory, anxiolytic, and anti-epileptic effects(42).
-
What evidence or research exists to say that CBD helps with seizures in cats?
Clinical research has investigated dogs suffering from idiopathic epilepsy, a neurological disorder that causes seizures. The results showed that dogs experienced fewer seizure episodes after receiving doses of oral CBD(43).
The ECS is found to be prevalent among mammals(44). Thus, CBD’s suggested benefits on the study may pose a possibility of also working on cats.
-
Is there any evidence that CBD can make seizures in cats worse?
Currently, there are no specific studies on how CBD may potentially worsen cat seizures.
However, the compound does not cause any significant side effects on cats unless given in significantly high doses(45).
Some side effects of CBD on felines may include vomiting, lack of appetite, diarrhea, lethargy, and ataxia(46).
-
Will CBD interact with any current medication my cat may be taking for seizures?
CBD may potentially inhibit the action of the cytochrome P450 enzymes. These enzymes are necessary in order for the pet’s body to metabolize medication.
This interaction may reduce or interfere with the effects of your pet’s other medications(47).
It is vital to talk to your veterinarian first before giving CBD to your pets alongside other medications.
-
Are there other treatments my cat should consider alongside CBD to help with seizures?
The treatment for cat seizures may depend on the cause of the convulsions.
In cases where the origin of the seizure is untreatable or unknown, doctors may prescribe your pet anticonvulsant medication(48).
It is essential to speak to a licensed veterinarian, as they will determine the best course of treatment for your furry friend.
-
What is the dosage for seizures in cats?
The FDA has not approved the use of CBD as a medical treatment for cat seizures(49).
Hence, there is no set amount on how much CBD you may give to cats with the disorder.
It is recommended to consult a veterinarian experienced in cannabis use for you to know the appropriate CBD oil dosage for your feline friend.
-
What happens if I give my cat too much CBD?
CBD products with high THC concentrations may cause cannabis intoxication in animals(50).
Cannabis intoxication in cats may induce excessive drooling or vomiting, disorientation, pupil dilation, hyperactivity, and seizures(51).
Thus, pet owners should be cautious when giving high amounts of CBD to their pets.
-
What happens after I give my cat CBD for seizures?
There is a lack of studies regarding CBD’s safety and efficacy for cat seizures.
However, practicing veterinarians in states with legalized marijuana use are more likely to recommend CBD to their clients, as the compound possesses purported therapeutic benefits in managing pain, anxiety, and seizures(52).
In addition, according to a study in 2019, healthy cats that were given 2 mg of CBD-infused fish oil experienced no adverse effects to the compound(53), alluding to the safety of CBD for cats.
-
Can I give my cat CBD oil for humans?
Human-grade CBD products may contain different concentrations and formulations than CBD products specifically made for pets.
Additionally, pets that receive CBD products with high THC concentrations may experience cannabis intoxication(54). Thus, caution is advised.
- Seizures in Cats
https://www.smalldoorvet.com/learning-center/medical/seizures-in-cats - Recurrent seizures in cats: Diagnostic approach – when is it idiopathic epilepsy?
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30139320/ - Cannabis in Veterinary Medicine, page 30.
https://www.avma.org/sites/default/files/2021-03/APH-CannabisResources-Report-20201207.pdf - Single-Dose Pharmacokinetics and Preliminary Safety Assessment with Use of CBD-Rich Hemp Nutraceutical in Healthy Dogs and Cats
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6826847/ - CBD May Alleviate Seizures, Benefit People With Neurodevelopmental Conditions
https://www.med.unc.edu/neuroscience/cbd-may-alleviate-seizures-benefit-people-with-neurodevelopmental-conditions/ - Angelman syndrome
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/angelman-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20355621 - The Endocannabinoid System of Animals
https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2615/9/9/686 - Healing With CBD, page 179.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1AGlxnhS2SoFeOXEuysv75bd_C9pEnwsU/view - Cannabinoids and Pain: New Insights From Old Molecules
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphar.2018.01259/full - The Endocannabinoid System of Animals
https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2615/9/9/686 - Cannabidiol Displays Antiepileptiform and Antiseizure Properties In Vitro and In Vivo
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2819831/ - ibid.
- Randomized blinded controlled clinical trial to assess the effect of oral cannabidiol administration in addition to conventional antiepileptic treatment on seizure frequency in dogs with intractable idiopathic epilepsy
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31067185/ - ibid.
- Page 182 of Healing With CBD
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1AGlxnhS2SoFeOXEuysv75bd_C9pEnwsU/view - Page 182 of Healing With CBD
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1AGlxnhS2SoFeOXEuysv75bd_C9pEnwsU/view - Page 182 of Healing With CBD
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1AGlxnhS2SoFeOXEuysv75bd_C9pEnwsU/view - How to Talk to Your Veterinarian About CBD Oil for Dogs
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/talk-veterinarian-cbd-oil/ - FDA Regulation of Cannabis and Cannabis-Derived Products, Including Cannabidiol (CBD)
https://www.fda.gov/news-events/public-health-focus/fda-regulation-cannabis-and-cannabis-derived-products-including-cannabidiol-cbd - Single-Dose Pharmacokinetics and Preliminary Safety Assessment with Use of CBD-Rich Hemp Nutraceutical in Healthy Dogs and Cats
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6826847/ - ibid.
- Cannabidiol Primer for Healthcare Professionals
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7340472/ - Healing With CBD, page 282.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1AGlxnhS2SoFeOXEuysv75bd_C9pEnwsU/view - Hemp Oil for Pets: Everything You Need to Know
https://veterinarycannabissociety.org/hemp-oil-for-pets-everything-you-need-to-know/ - Cannabidiol (CBD)
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK556048/ - FAQs about CBD Use in Pets
https://www.aspcapro.org/resource/faqs-about-cbd-use-pets - Understanding Dabs: Contamination Concerns of Cannabis Concentrates and Cannabinoid Transfer During the Act of Dabbing
https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/jts/40/6/40_797/_pdf/-char/en - Healing With CBD, page 183.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1AGlxnhS2SoFeOXEuysv75bd_C9pEnwsU/view - CBD oil: An introduction
https://www.projectcbd.org/wellness/cbd-oil-introduction - CANNABIDIOL (CBD)Pre-Review ReportAgenda Item 5.2
https://www.who.int/medicines/access/controlled-substances/5.2_CBD.pdf - FAQs about CBD Use in Pets
https://www.aspcapro.org/resource/faqs-about-cbd-use-pets - US Veterinarians’ Knowledge, Experience, and Perception Regarding the Use of Cannabidiol for Canine Medical Conditions
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2018.00338/full - How to Talk to Your Veterinarian About CBD Oil for Dogs
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/talk-veterinarian-cbd-oil/ - Cannabis (Marijuana) Intoxication in Cats and Dogs
https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/marijuana-intoxication-in-dogs-and-cats - Cannabis (Marijuana) Intoxication in Cats and Dogs
https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/marijuana-intoxication-in-dogs-and-cats - FDA Regulation of Cannabis and Cannabis-Derived Products, Including Cannabidiol (CBD)
https://www.fda.gov/news-events/public-health-focus/fda-regulation-cannabis-and-cannabis-derived-products-including-cannabidiol-cbd - Hemp Production and the 2018 Farm Bill
https://www.fda.gov/news-events/congressional-testimony/hemp-production-and-2018-farm-bill-07252019 - FDA Regulation of Cannabis and Cannabis-Derived Products, Including Cannabidiol (CBD)
https://www.fda.gov/news-events/public-health-focus/fda-regulation-cannabis-and-cannabis-derived-products-including-cannabidiol-cbd#hempanimal - How to Talk to Your Veterinarian About CBD Oil for Dogs
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/talk-veterinarian-cbd-oil/ - Nevada veterinarians can treat patients with certain cannabis products
https://www.avma.org/javma-news/2021-10-01/nevada-veterinarians-can-treat-patients-certain-cannabis-products - Seizures in Cats
https://www.smalldoorvet.com/learning-center/medical/seizures-in-cats - Cannabis in Veterinary Medicine, page 30.
https://www.avma.org/sites/default/files/2021-03/APH-CannabisResources-Report-20201207.pdf - Randomized blinded controlled clinical trial to assess the effect of oral cannabidiol administration in addition to conventional antiepileptic treatment on seizure frequency in dogs with intractable idiopathic epilepsy
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31067185/ - The Endocannabinoid System of Animals
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6770351/ - CANNABIDIOL (CBD)Pre-Review ReportAgenda Item 5.2
https://www.who.int/medicines/access/controlled-substances/5.2_CBD.pdf - FAQs about CBD Use in Pets
https://www.aspcapro.org/resource/faqs-about-cbd-use-pets - ibid.
- Seizures and Epilepsy in Cats
https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/seizures-and-epilepsy-in-cats - FDA Regulation of Cannabis and Cannabis-Derived Products, Including Cannabidiol (CBD)
https://www.fda.gov/news-events/public-health-focus/fda-regulation-cannabis-and-cannabis-derived-products-including-cannabidiol-cbd - Cannabis (Marijuana) Intoxication in Cats and Dogs
https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/marijuana-intoxication-in-dogs-and-cats - ibid.
- US Veterinarians’ Knowledge, Experience, and Perception Regarding the Use of Cannabidiol for Canine Medical Conditions
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2018.00338/full - Single-Dose Pharmacokinetics and Preliminary Safety Assessment with Use of CBD-Rich Hemp Nutraceutical in Healthy Dogs and Cats
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6826847/ - Cannabis (Marijuana) Intoxication in Cats and Dogs
https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/marijuana-intoxication-in-dogs-and-cats
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