CBD for animals

CBD oil and other cannabis products with a high CBD content have become the talk of the town and are used by many people to fend off various ailments.

What many people do not know yet: animals can also enjoy the beneficial properties of CBD. In this guide on CBD oil for animals, you'll learn everything you need to know to support animals such as dogs, cats, and horses using CBD.

What is CBD for animals?

CBD, or cannabidiol, is a naturally occurring compound found in hemp plants. When extracted and formulated for animal use, it can offer potential wellness benefits for pets. CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system present in mammals, including dogs, cats, and horses [Deabold et al., 2019].

Unlike THC, CBD does not produce psychoactive effects. Pet CBD products are specifically designed to be non-intoxicating and safe for animal consumption. These formulations often utilize CBD isolate or broad-spectrum extracts to ensure minimal to no THC content.

Forms of CBD for animals

CBD for pets is available in various forms to suit different animals and administration preferences:

  • Oils and tinctures
  • Treats and chews
  • Capsules
  • Topical balms and creams

Among these options, CBD oils are particularly popular due to their versatility and ease of dosage adjustment. Some products, like Enecta's pet CBD oil, are formulated with additional beneficial ingredients such as omega fatty acids to support overall pet health.

Composition of pet CBD products

Pet CBD products typically contain:

ComponentPurpose
CBD extractPrimary active ingredient
Carrier oil (e.g., MCT oil)Improves absorption
Flavoring (optional)Enhances palatability
Additional supplementsTargets specific health concerns


The concentration of CBD and the presence of other ingredients can vary between products, making it essential to choose a formula appropriate for your pet's specific needs and size [Hartsel et al., 2019].

Effect of CBD for animals

CBD's effects on animals stem from its interaction with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex cell-signaling network present in mammals. This system plays a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis, influencing various physiological processes including mood, sleep, appetite, and pain sensation [Russo, 2016].

When administered to pets, CBD interacts primarily with two types of receptors in the ECS:

  • CB1 receptors: Predominantly found in the central nervous system
  • CB2 receptors: Mainly located in peripheral organs and immune cells

Through these interactions, CBD may modulate neurotransmitter release and influence inflammatory responses. This mechanism underlies its potential to address various health concerns in animals, from anxiety to chronic pain.

Species-specific considerations

The effects of CBD can vary between animal species due to differences in metabolism and ECS composition. Dogs, for instance, have a higher concentration of CB1 receptors in their brains compared to humans, potentially making them more sensitive to cannabinoids [Vaughn et al., 2020].

Cats, on the other hand, lack certain enzymes necessary for efficiently metabolizing some plant compounds. This unique physiology necessitates careful dosing and product selection when administering CBD to felines.

For larger animals like horses, CBD's effects may be influenced by their size and specific health concerns. Equine-specific CBD formulations, such as those offered by Enecta, take these factors into account to optimize efficacy and safety.