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Oregonians don’t shy away from alleviating ailments with CBD. We even land among the nation’s top three producers of the hemp used to source THC’s soothing, non-psychoactive sister cannabinoid, per Consumer Reports. Proponents see CBD as a useful tool for improving symptoms of common health issues ranging from chronic pain to insomnia. For a pet-loving state that’s also intent on animal advocacy, passing those benefits along to our furry friends feels like a natural step. 

But for responsible pet owners, the idea of dosing Fifi or Fido brings up some important questions: Does the science back up anecdotes about CBD’s benefits for animals? What do local veterinarians think about CBD? And, crucially, is CBD safe for pets?

What Science Says about CBD and Pets

In Oregon, CBD for pets might seem like old news. After all, the state became the first to decriminalize possession of small quantities of marijuana all the way back in 1973, according to the Marijuana Policy Project. But regulatory bodies have yet to catch up to the now-booming industry. “We want to stress that FDA has not approved cannabis for any use in animals,” the Food and Drug Administration warns, encouraging pet owners to discuss treatment options with their veterinarians. Always sound advice.

Still, there’s some evidence—and plenty of personal narratives—to back up CBD’s reputation as a powerhouse for pet health. Veterinary scientists have reported impressive results of clinical CBD use in dogs with anxiety, osteoarthritis, seizures, and certain skin issues. More than 80 percent of dogs in both the anxiety and osteoarthritis studies experienced significant relief after using CBD. 

Is CBD Safe for Pets?

“Yes, CBD and hemp products are safe for pets,” according to the Humane Society of the United States. The proof looks promising: Studies suggest that most dogs can safely use CBD, with few, mild side effects observed. CBD hasn’t been researched as extensively in other companion animals, though one study shows that healthy cats do well on a long-term, daily CBD supplement. 

Perhaps most concerning is CBD’s potential interaction with other medications. Always seek personalized veterinary advice before adding CBD to your pet’s routine.

What Local Veterinarians Say about CBD and Pets

CBD finds some of its most vocal supporters in Portland-area veterinarians. Dr. Cornelia Wagner at Hawthorne Veterinary Clinic reports that CBD offers relief for patients with arthritic pain and anxiety issues: “Anything that is an inflammatory process in the body could benefit from CBD,” Wagner told Willamette Week. “It helps with mild anxiety—if they're bored, or for car rides.”

In general, vets who support alternative medicine tend to also be more positive about CBD. If you consider openness to CBD treatment to be an important factor in choosing a vet, try perusing their website or Google reviews. When in doubt, call ahead.

How to Choose CBD Products for Pets

CBD for pets comes in a variety of forms that cater to different maladies, species, and preferences. Here are a few types of CBD for pets that you’re likely to encounter:

1. Tinctures

Concentrated extracts in liquid form, usually administered with an eye-dropper. Often mixed in with a meal. Can sometimes be fed directly into the pet’s mouth, especially if flavored.

2. Treats

Snack-like, but administered in set quantities (much to the patient’s chagrin).  

3. Topical Balms

Used for hot spots and other skin conditions, or to address muscle pains. 

Because the FDA has yet to approve any CBD-containing products for use in pets, the industry can feel like a Wild West of chicken-flavored chews and lavender-scented oils. Researchers have even found that some products contain no cannabinoids whatsoever, according to a study led by the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. 

CBD for pets abounds at marijuana dispensaries, pet stores, and, of course, online. Cornell University recommends that pet owners shopping for CBD products should look for organically grown hemp, CBD extracted using supercritical CO2, and products independently evaluated by a third party. As always, turn to your veterinarian as your most trusted source for information on high-quality CBD supplements for your pet.