CBD for Dogs & Cats: A Beginner's GuideUpdated 7 hours ago
New to CBD? You're in the right place. This guide covers what CBD is, how it works, how to choose a quality product, and how to get started safely with your dog or cat.
What is CBD?
CBD (short for cannabidiol) is a natural compound found in the hemp plant. It's one of more than 100 compounds in the cannabis family, which are called cannabinoids.
Hemp and marijuana are cousins, but they are not the same thing. The key difference is THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the compound that causes a "high." Hemp is grown to contain very little THC, while marijuana contains a lot.
CBD will not get your pet high. Cannanine products are made from hemp and contain 0% THC, so your pet gets the benefits of CBD without any intoxicating effects.
How does CBD work?
Every mammal, including dogs, cats, and people, has an endocannabinoid system (ECS). It's a network of receptors throughout the brain, nervous system, organs, and immune system.
The ECS helps the body stay in balance. It plays a role in mood, comfort, sleep, appetite, and immune response.
CBD interacts with this system, which is why pet parents use it to support everything from stiff joints to a nervous temperament. Research on CBD for pets is still growing, but early veterinary studies are encouraging, especially for joint comfort in dogs.
Types of CBD
You'll see three terms on CBD labels. Here's what they mean:
Type | What's in it | THC |
|---|---|---|
Full spectrum | CBD plus the hemp plant's other natural compounds | Trace amounts |
Broad spectrum | CBD plus other beneficial hemp compounds | None (0%) |
Isolate | Pure CBD only | None (0%) |
All Cannanine CBD tinctures for dogs and cats use broad spectrum CBD. Your pet gets CBD working alongside other natural hemp compounds, with the THC removed.
Why do pet parents use CBD?
Most pet parents turn to CBD for three kinds of everyday support:
- Mobility and comfort: stiff or achy joints, especially in senior pets, and recovery after activity
- Calm: stressful moments like thunderstorms, fireworks, car rides, vet visits, grooming, or time home alone
- Overall wellness: appetite, restful sleep, and skin and coat comfort
For a longer list, see What do pet parents use CBD for?
CBD is a supplement, not a replacement for veterinary care. If your pet has a diagnosed condition, such as seizures, cancer, or chronic pain, talk with your vet before adding CBD to their routine.
Is CBD safe for dogs and cats?
Pet-formulated, THC-free CBD is generally well tolerated by dogs and cats. Like any supplement, it can cause mild side effects, especially when first starting or at higher amounts:
- Drowsiness or extra relaxation
- Loose stool or mild stomach upset
- Increased thirst
These usually pass on their own or ease with a smaller serving. If a side effect is severe or doesn't go away, stop giving CBD and contact your vet.
Check with your vet first if your pet:
- Takes any prescription medication (CBD can change how some medications are processed)
- Has liver disease or another ongoing health condition
- Is pregnant, nursing, or very young
A note for cat parents: Cats are smaller and often more sensitive than dogs, so start with a very small amount. Only give cats products labeled for cats, and never give your pet CBD made for people. Human products may contain THC, xylitol, essential oils, or flavorings that are unsafe for pets.
How to choose a quality CBD product
CBD products vary a lot in quality. Look for these five things:
- Made for pets. Pet formulas are dosed and flavored for animals.
- Third-party lab tested. An independent lab should confirm each batch's CBD content and check for contaminants.
- A Certificate of Analysis (COA). The brand should share test results openly. You can view Cannanine's on our Testing & QC page.
- Clear CBD amount. The label should list total CBD in milligrams (mg).
- Made in the USA in a facility that follows quality manufacturing standards.
Getting started
Pick a format. CBD oil (also called a tincture) is easy to adjust, and every Cannanine tincture is made for both dogs and cats. Place drops directly in the mouth or on a favorite treat or food. CBD chews are a simple, tasty option for dogs only; please don't give them to cats.
Start low and go slow. Begin with the lowest suggested serving for your pet's weight. Increase gradually over a week or two until you see the results you want. Our CBD Dosing Guide walks through amounts by weight.
Be consistent. Give CBD at about the same time each day. For stressful events like fireworks or a vet visit, many pet parents give a serving about 1 to 2 hours ahead.
Give it time. Some pets show a difference within hours. For ongoing needs like joint comfort, it can take two to four weeks of daily use to see the full effect. A quick daily note on your pet's behavior can help you track progress.
Quick FAQs
Will CBD get my pet high? No. Cannanine products contain 0% THC, the compound that causes a high.
Will CBD make my pet sleepy? Some pets feel more relaxed, especially at first. If your pet seems too drowsy, try a smaller serving.
Can I share my own CBD with my pet? No. Products made for people can contain THC or ingredients that are unsafe for pets, like xylitol or essential oils.
Can my cat use Cannanine? Yes. All of our CBD tinctures are formulated for both dogs and cats. Our CBD chews are made for dogs only.
Can CBD be given with other supplements or medications? It's often combined with other supplements. If your pet takes any prescription medication, check with your vet first.
What if I don't see results? Every pet is different. Try adjusting the serving slowly and giving it consistently for a few weeks. If you're still not happy, our satisfaction guarantee has you covered. See our Refund & Return Policy or contact us.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Cannanine products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, illness, or medical condition in animals. Always consult your veterinarian with questions about your pet's health.