In the ever-expanding world of pet wellness, CBD products for companion animals have surged in popularity, mirroring the trend in human consumption. But, despite the growing anecdotal evidence supporting CBD's benefits for dogs, cat owners have been left wondering: Is CBD safe for my feline friend?

A groundbreaking series of studies aimed to fill this void, focusing on the long-term effects of administering a THC-free CBD distillate to clinically healthy cats. Conducted with rigorous standards, these randomized, blinded, and placebo-controlled trials were designed to unveil the truth about CBD's suitability and tolerance in cats over an extended period.

The initial study embarked on a 4-week journey, comparing the effects of a daily dose of CBD oil (4 mg/kg body weight) against a placebo oil in cats. The findings were intriguing, showing a significant absorption of CBD into the cats' bloodstream, with peak concentrations observed two hours post-dosing. After two weeks, the concentration of CBD saw a notable increase, signaling a promising start.

But the real eye-opener came from the second study, which extended over 26 weeks. This marathon investigation not only tracked CBD absorption but also took a comprehensive look at the cats' overall physiological health. Despite a slight uptick in alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels—an enzyme that can indicate liver health—during the first four weeks in the CBD group, the long-term data painted a different picture. Over the span of 26 weeks, the ALT levels showed statistical equivalence to those of the placebo group, quelling fears about potential liver damage.

Moreover, all other biochemistry and hematology assessments revealed no significant differences between the cats receiving CBD and those on the placebo, suggesting that a daily regimen of THC-free CBD is not only well-tolerated but also absorbed efficiently by healthy cats.

These studies mark a pivotal step forward in understanding how CBD can safely fit into our pets' lives, especially for our feline companions. With a dose of 4 mg/kg body weight, CBD appears to hold promise for cats, offering peace of mind to pet owners curious about incorporating this supplement into their pet care arsenal. As the conversation around CBD for pets continues to evolve, this research offers a beacon of clarity for cat lovers everywhere.

Read full article here: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2023.1324622/full