Cannabis and pets: how it works

Many pet owners, even in France, attest to the effectiveness of cannabidiol (CBD) on their dogs, particularly for inflammation or anxiety. But how does cannabis work on animals?

The endocannabinoid system

Like all mammals, dogs and cats have a endocannabinoid system, affected by cannabinoids such as CBD or THC. The endocannabinoid system plays a regulatory role in several functions of the human body, including the immune system and the central nervous system, and influences memory and appetite regulation.

The therapeutic possibilities of CBD are also of interest to the scientific community, while the’WHO now judges that it should not be placed on the list of controlled substances. CBD acts on the endocannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2 and provides a range of anti-inflammatory, anti-epileptic, anxiolytic, and analgesic effects without inducing the intoxicating effects of THC.

Veterinary Research and Cannabinoids

After attesting to the Effects of CBD on humans, Scientists today are wondering if the same effects are observable in pets or livestock.

For example, a veterinary study from 2017 published in the journal Vet J had concluded that the introduction of cannabinoid analogs showed significant analgesic and anti-inflammatory activity, and that this represented an advantageous therapeutic approach in veterinary medicine.

Another study showed potential for these analogues in dermatological treatment, with a significant reduction in histamines. Cannabinoids also showed their potential in oncology care to restore appetite in dogs with cancer.

A market for pet cannabis products

As the industry expands, particularly the CBD industry in Europe, veterinary, pharmaceutical companies, or more simply producers/distributors of CBD products are bringing to market cannabis treatments for pets.

In France, Gour Medical for example, announced at the beginning the launch of a line of CBD-based treatments for animals. Swiss hemp producers at Cibdol will also soon be releasing their range.