In the vast world of animal welfare, cat owners are constantly looking for innovative ways to improve the lives of their faithful feline friends. In this context, a product has caught the attention of health-conscious cat lovers: CBD cat food.

But what makes these snacks so special and why should our four-legged friends take advantage of them?

CBD, or cannabidiol, is a compound extracted from cannabis known for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties. In CBD kibble for cats, this natural element meets the world of felines to offer an alternative approach to wellbeing.

But what is the reason behind the growing popularity of these kibbles?

Furry friends are renowned for their unique personalities and can sometimes experience stress, anxiety or pain of various kinds. CBD kibble has been scientifically designed to offer natural relief, helping cats to relax and maintain optimal physical and emotional balance.

In this article, we will retrace together the steps that led to the discovery of a powerful natural remedy with no side effects. We will explore in more detail what dry food with CBD for cats is, how it works and what benefits it can bring to your feline companion’s overall well-being.

Can CBD be given to cats?

From what emerges from the first scientific studies on the subject, yes, CBD can be administered to cats.

However, before administering any CBD product to your cat, it is essential to consult your vet. Each cat is an individual and the response to CBD may vary.

In addition, dosages and methods of administration can influence the cat’s reaction to CBD. Dosage, for instance, must be calibrated according to the animal’s weight to be sure of a satisfactory result.

There are specific products formulated for cats, such as kibble, or oils and snacks, which may be more suited to their needs.

It is essential to use only high-quality products designed for pets and to avoid using products intended for humans, which may contain ingredients that are harmful to cats. For example, CBD products for pets do not contain THC or terpenes, which would be harmful to them.Finally, a veterinarian should be consulted if the animal is already undergoing treatment for a certain disease. CBD could in fact interfere with medication, lowering or even nullifying its efficacy.

How does CBD work on cats?

Scientists who have studied cannabis and its properties over the past decades have discovered that CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system. This is a complex signalling system, present in both humans and animals, involved in the regulation of a number of physiological functions including appetite, sleep, mood and immune response.

Although there is still a lot of research going on regarding CBD for cats, there have already been numerous discoveries. CBD for cats would serve to:

• Dealing with anxiety and stress: many animals may experience agitation because of changes in the environment, visits to the vet, because they are left alone for many hours or simply because of their nervous nature;
• Calming inflammation: CBD is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which could be useful in managing conditions related to both acute and chronic inflammation, such as arthritis in elderly cats;
• Controlling pain: Some cats, especially those with chronic or painful conditions, may benefit from CBD as part of a pain management strategy by inhibiting the body’s response;
• Improving sleep: CBD influences the sleep cycle by making it deeper and longer lasting;
• Supporting the immune system: some research suggests that CBD may support the immune system, thus helping an animal that is already suffering from a disease as well as preventing its onset.

Thus, it appears that CBD is optimal in all circumstances. On the one hand it helps the cat to maintain its psycho-physical well-being, on the other hand it cures it when a disease or trauma occurs.

How to give CBD to the cat?

CBD products for cats are generally designed to be easy to give and tasty for the animal. The two main ones we will see in a moment are kibble and drops. For both, there are some general rules you need to know.

To administer the products, follow a few simple steps: 

• Make sure your cat is relaxed and calm;
• Do not change your routine so that you do not notice any changes;
• It may be easier to administer CBD if it is added to a favourite food rather than on its own;
• Start with a low dose and increase gradually if necessary;
• Monitor your cat for any side effects, such as drowsiness or lethargy;
• Try to be as consistent as possible in the administration of the product.

The dosage of CBD for cats depends on the weight and physical condition of the animal. If you want to make sure you don’t make a mistake, contact your vet and ask for advice based on how much active ingredient is in the product. You can easily get this information from the packaging or from the manufacturer.

In general, an initial dose of 0.1-0.5 mg CBD per kilogram of body weight is a good starting point.

Here is a rough guide to CBD dosage for cats:

• Cat weight: 5 kg
• Starting dose: 0.25 mg CBD
• Maximum dose: 2.5 mg CBD

And now let us look specifically at how to handle individual products.

CBD kibble for cats

CBD kibble for cats is really one of the easiest products to feed, as it is prepared in flavours that the animal can enjoy.

Here are a few suggestions to make them appreciate it more:

• Serve your cat its normal dose of dry food with CBD;
• Keep to the time you always gave them their meals;
• Mix CBD kibble with regular kibble;
• Let your cat eat the kibble quietly and without forcing it.

CBD taken orally takes a little longer to show its effectiveness as it has to be absorbed through the digestive system. Conversely, if you want a faster and often more potent method, you should opt for CBD drops.

CBD drops

When we talk about CBD drops, we need to add a few more tips to those we have already given you.

Let’s see the best method for success;

• Gently open your cat’s mouth with one finger;
• Use the dropper to apply the drops directly onto the tongue or the sides of your cat’s mouth;
• Close your cat’s mouth and massage its throat to help it swallow.

If your cat refuses the drops, you can try mixing them with one of his favourite foods to disguise the taste.

How many drops of CBD for the cat? The answer depends on several factors.

The first important thing to know is that CBD oil is not a one-size-fits-all product because you can find it in different concentrations. For example, for very small animals, such as hamsters, a 2.5 per cent concentration is recommended. For medium-sized animals, among which are dogs and cats, 5% oil is recommended. If, on the other hand, the animal is large, you can also consider higher percentages.

Let’s take the 5% concentration as an example: the oil usually comes in a 10ml bottle, so 500mg of active ingredient diluted in a carrier oil. This means that 2.5 mg of CBD is contained in each drop. Through this calculation you can work out how many drops to give your cat or how much food to dilute it in.

Take care of your cat naturally

Caring for your cat in a natural way can be a rewarding experience for both of you and CBD kibble offers an innovative perspective to improve the well-being of your faithful feline companion.

The combination of essential nutrients and the potential benefits of cannabidiol offers a holistic approach to addressing various challenges our cats may face in their lives.

Opting for dry food with CBD for cats means embracing a solution that aims to calm anxieties, reduce stress and promote better management of inflammation. These delicious snacks can become an integral part of your cat’s daily routine, helping to maintain his emotional and physical balance.

However, remember that every cat, like every living being, is particular and has specific needs. Before adding CBD kibble to the diet, it is advisable to consult your vet to make sure it is an appropriate choice, especially if your cat is already undergoing medical treatment.