Best CBD Oil For Cats With Cancer

Here are some of the best CBD oils to help manage your feline friend’s symptoms, including persistent sores, lameness, and unexplained bleeding. Cancer is one of the most dreaded diseases in cats, but hopefuly, there are several steps you can take to improve their quality of life — like giving them CBD oil. Here we explain how CBD can help cats with cancer. Feline Leukemia and Lymphoma Feline Squamous Cell Carcinoma Mammary Cancer in Cats The Endocannabinoid System Why CBD For Cats With Cancer? Can You Give Human CBD Oil To Cats? Are CBD Oils Right For My Cat? Can CBD Oil Treat Cancer? As people, we can consume as much THC as we deem desirable because our endocannabinoid

CBD Oil for Cats with Cancer – August 2022

Can pet owners use CBD oil to treat cats with cancer? Is it safe?

  • Cancer affects cats in many ways and can drastically lower their quality of life. Symptoms such as persistent sores, changing lumps, lameness, unexplained bleeding, and loss of appetite are common among cats with cancer. (1 )
  • Many medications are available to help alleviate the clinical signs of cancer, but can also cause adverse reactions to felines. Cannabidiol, also known as CBD, is a promising solution that could be a natural and safer remedy in treating cancer in cats. (2-3 )
  • Several preliminary studies on CBD have shown that the phytocannabinoid might eliminate cancerous cells in the body (4 ) . Results also showed that CBD inhibited the growth of harmful tumors in a lab setting. (5-6 )
  • Despite the purported benefits of CBD oil, there is a lack of in-depth research regarding its use in animals. Cats that are given CBD formulations may experience side effects such as drowsiness (7 ) , anxiety, nausea, and disorientation.
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Natural relief for cats
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Can Cats with Cancer Use CBD Oil?

Cancer is one of the most feared health conditions today, and although it is not as common in cats as it is with dogs, it still affects many felines. Some of the symptoms of cancer in cats include persistent sores, lumps that change in size or shape, lameness, unexplained bleeding, and loss of appetite. (8 )

Despite having no cure, there are many medications available that can alleviate the clinical signs of cancer. However, these pharmaceutical drugs also bring with them adverse reactions and harmful side effects that can only worsen the condition of a pet.

One particularly promising solution comes in the form of cannabidiol (CBD), which is the non-psychoactive component of cannabis and the main compound in the hemp plant.

There is a growing number of owners that are beginning to look towards CBD-based cannabis products to ease pain and other conditions in their pets. (9 ) Although there is no precise data suggesting that CBD can cure cancer, there are studies that point towards its therapeutic potential and compatibility in small animals. (10 )

One study in 2018, for instance, shows encouraging results on the effects of hemp-based cannabidiol and terpenes on dogs suffering from osteoarthritis. The majority of the dogs that consumed CBD oil during the trial experienced significantly less pain and better mobility overall. (11 )

The same study also shows that there were no side effects reported and that the dogs can tolerate a dosage of 2 mg per kilogram bodyweight of CBD oil twice each day. These findings may be an indication that the hemp-based nutraceutical is not dangerous for animals. (12 )

A study on the endocannabinoid system (ECS) reveals that humans and animals, with the exception of some insects and protozoans, share this same system in their bodies (13 ) . The ECS is responsible for regulating the functions of the brain, endocrine, and immune tissues, while it also contains cannabinoid receptors. (14 )

Since animals and human beings also possess the same receptors, this means that cats can be naturally receptive to the cannabinoids present in CBD. This research on the ECS may be proof as to why the dogs in the study mentioned earlier did not experience any adverse effects upon consuming CBD oil.

CBD for Cats with Cancer

Three forms of CBD products for cats are available at this time. These include:

CBD Oils (Tinctures)

Oils are the most popular method in administering full-spectrum cannabidiol in cats. When people mention CBD oil for cats, this typically means using tinctures to help ease symptoms.

Cat CBD oil is given by way of a dropper, which is easily applied in the mouth. There are various flavors available for CBD tinctures that pet owners can choose from today.

CBD Capsules

CBD in the form of capsules is an ideal alternative for use in cats as they are provided in pre-measured portions. Each pill can be administered once or twice a day, depending on the recommendation of a veterinarian.

A capsule may contain 5 to 20 mg of CBD, so it is essential to consult a doctor before application. The pills can also be masked in pet food to make administration easier.

CBD Cat Treats

CBD pet treats for cats are also another way to administer CBD to a feline friend conveniently. Cats enjoy consuming treats that are made for them, and this product makes the application process straightforward.

Keep in mind, however, that the dosage in CBD treats may not be as accurate as with oils and capsules. Again, cat owners should talk to a veterinarian to know the proper dosage they should give to their pets.

Can CBD Oil Treat Cancer in Cats?

There are several clinical studies that were carried out, suggesting that CBD can fight the spread and growth of cancerous tumors in cats.

CBD Might Help Eliminate Cancer Cells

In 2011, researchers carried out an examination of how CBD would interact with breast cancer cells. Although the study was done in vitro, which means that it involved using either a sample dish or test tube instead of a live organism, the results were quite impressive.

In the study, the scientists learned that CBD could help induce programmed death on the cancer cells without causing much damage to the healthy cells. (15 ) How CBD was able to do this is relatively unclear, but the compound was able to help destroy damaged tissues, and cause apoptosis or programmed cell death.

Since cancer is primarily characterized by the abnormal growth of cells, the results of this study may be a hint that CBD can contribute in regulating cell growth.

CBD Can Help Stop Tumor Growth

The Breast Cancer Research and Treatment journal published a similar study in the same year regarding CBD and how it affects cancerous cells in the breast.

The study, although carried out on mice, found that CBD can help slow down the growth of breast cancer cells in these rodents. Additionally, researchers also discovered that it could reduce metastasis or the development of secondary malignant growths. (16 )

Another study in 2003 revealed how there are cannabinoid receptors present in healthy and cancerous skin cells of mice. The researchers targeted these receptors and found that by activating the ECS with cannabinoids, the compounds contributed to cell death while helping slow down skin cancer growth. (17 )

There are also several studies regarding CBD and its ability to inhibit angiogenesis. Angiogenesis is the process that allows cancerous tumors to continue growing by way of developing new blood vessels. (18 )

Side Effects That CBD May Help Alleviate

CBD oil is not an approved treatment for cancer in cats. However, it is capable of providing relief to many of the side effects that come with cancer treatment.

Three prevalent options for treating cancer in cats are done via surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy. Although it is impressive to have these choices to manage cancer cells in felines, these treatments have a lot of undesirable effects, especially long-term.

Below are the side effects that CBD may help alleviate in cat cancer treatment:

Nausea and Vomiting

Nausea is a common outcome for cats that undergo chemotherapy and radiotherapy to control the growth of cancer in their bodies. During such treatment, cells that line the intestines and stomach of a cat can be affected, leading to nausea and vomiting. (19 )

There is encouraging evidence that demonstrates how the manipulation of the ECS in animals can regulate this digestive problem.

A study in 2011 shows that a wide variety of animals have the capacity to use the anti-emetic effect of cannabinoids in their bodies. Additional evidence also reveals that cannabinoids may be useful in treating nausea caused by chemotherapy. (20 )

Since CBD is a phytocannabinoid, it is theoretically possible to use it to engage the ECS of cats after they receive chemotherapy to ease their gastrointestinal issues.

Chronic Pain

Tumors that are present in any part of a cat’s body can cause mild to severe pain. Therapies such as radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and surgery can also lead to pain management issues.

Tramadol is a common analgesic given to cats that are suffering from cancer pain. However, its effectiveness is questionable in treating acute or traumatic pain, and its non-opioid mechanism may not work on felines. (21 ) The latest data suggests doses of 2 mg/kg are effective for tramadol.

In 2018, a study on dogs that had osteoarthritis were given CBD oil products to see the safety and analgesic effect it had on canines. The final assessment showed that the dogs had significantly less pain after the CBD treatment and became more active. (22 )

This clinical trial also reported that there were no ill side effects observed despite being given 2 mg per kilo of body weight every twelve hours for four weeks. (23 )

Inflammation

Squamous cell carcinoma in felines can start as a small patch of sore skin and oral tumors, which, if not healed, could be a sign of cancerous cells present in the body. Inflammation of the skin is one of the most common symptoms of squamous cell carcinoma in cats.

Research in 2000 reveals that cannabinoids, particularly with CBD from the cannabis plant, have strong anti-inflammatory properties. This same study investigates cannabinoid efficacy on mice that had collagen-induced arthritis and showed that it was able to improve the conditions on these rodents. (24 )

A follow-up experiment in 2004 using a novel synthetic cannabinoid acid on mice with arthritis generated the same results. The cannabinoid was found to have suppressive effects on cell immune responses while also producing pro-inflammatory mediators, a hint to its usefulness as a novel, anti-inflammatory product. (25 )

Causes of Cancer in Cats

There are several reasons why cancer can show up in the mammalian body of a cat.

Aging

The process of getting older is one of the primary causes of cancer in many cats. There are several reasons as to why aging can cause a higher rate of cancer growth in the body.

One theory is that the mutations on these cells accumulate over the years, which raises the likelihood of cancerous cell division to happen. (26 ) Degeneration of the mammalian body is also another suspect.

For instance, chronic inflammation experienced by cats over the years can damage DNA and weaken the immune system, leading to slow identification and elimination of harmful cells.

Fibrosarcoma

Fibrosarcoma is a common soft tissue cancer in cats that is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Although no specific cause can be identified, most cats that have fibrosarcoma developed tumors at a prior injection site on their bodies. (27 )

Intact Reproductive Organs

Cats that are not spayed or neutered are at risk of developing cancer in their bodies. The spaying of female cats eliminates the possibility of breast and ovarian cancer, while neutering male ones reduce the incidence of prostate cancer. (28 )

Apart from reducing the risk of cancer development, cats can also live longer and healthier lives when they are spayed and neutered. (29 )

Carcinogens

These chemicals are believed to cause mutations in the genes that eventually become cancerous cells in the body. Cats can be exposed to the same carcinogens as that of humans, which include those coming from tobacco smoke, asbestos, x-ray radiation, and benzene. (30 )

Possible Side Effects of CBD in Cats

Prior to administering CBD to a cat, pet owners should understand its potential side effects so that they are fully aware and prepared for what could happen. Although studies did show that CBD did not cause any adverse reactions during the trials, every cat can have a different response, and there is always the risk of harm.

The probability of these side effects can be higher with the improper use of CBD. Cat owners that notice a negative change in their pet’s attitude may consult a veterinarian to reduce their CBD dosage.

A potential side effect of CBD hemp oil consumption is drowsiness. (31 ) In many cases, cats tend to portray sleepy behavior, which makes this reaction relatively difficult to notice at first.

Nausea, anxiety, changes in appetite, vomiting, weight loss, and disorientation are also other possible side effects of CBD use in cats. Although these reactions are rare, owners should cease applying CBD and contact a veterinarian immediately when they notice these signs.

Conclusion

Cancer in cats may not be as common as they are with dogs, but the symptoms felines experience can lower their quality of life significantly. Some of these signs include persistent sores, lumps that change in shape or size, unexplained bleeding, loss of appetite, and lameness.

There are many medications that pet owners can buy to help alleviate these symptoms. However, pharmaceutical drugs are known to cause adverse reactions that can only worsen the condition of a cat suffering from cancer.

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a promising solution that offers many potential health benefits in easing the symptoms of cancer in felines. Many pet owners are beginning to look towards high-quality CBD-based products with less tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) to help reduce the pain, inflammation, and other conditions their pets are experiencing.

Preliminary research studies on pet CBD show impressive results with the phytocannabinoid being able to help inhibit and even eliminate cancerous cell growth in the body. CBD may also provide relief to several clinical signs related to feline cancer.

However, the lack of in-depth studies on CBD use in animals leaves many questions unanswered, including the possible side effects of its use. Pet owners that notice any adverse reaction in using CBD should cease its application immediately and consult a veterinarian as soon as possible.

CBD Oil for Cats with Cancer: Top Products Reviews

Cancer is one of the most dangerous diseases, and although cats are less likely to suffer from it than dogs, it still affects many of our feline friends. Cats with cancer usually experience persistent sores, lumps that can grow or change shape, unexplained bleeding, loss of appetite, and lameness.

Although there’s no established cure for cancer, many medications are available to alleviate the clinical symptoms of feline tumors. However, conventional treatments also entail the risk of dangerous adverse reactions — not to mention harmful side effects that come with long-term use.

CBD has recently come sparked the attention of medical researchers due to CBD’s potential anti-cancer benefits. CBD is a naturally occurring, non-intoxicating cannabinoid found in hemp plants.

A growing number of pet owners are using CBD-based products to ease pain, inflammation, and other conditions in their pets. Although there is no hard data on the efficacy of CBD for cats with cancer, there are studies that highlight its therapeutic potential and safety in small animals.

Today, we explore the potential benefits of CBD for cats with cancer, covering the current scientific literature and outlining the available forms of CBD for your feline friend.

CBD for Pets: A Brief Overview

A 2018 study showed promising results on the effects of hemp-derived CBD and terpenes on dogs with osteoarthritis. Most of the dogs that consumed CBD oil during the study experienced significantly reduced pain and better mobility in general.

The same study also showed that there were no side effects reported by the dog owners — and that the dogs could tolerate a dose of 2 mg of CBD oil per kilogram twice a day. These results may indicate that hemp-based phytonutrients are safe for animals.

A study on the endocannabinoid system (ECS) has revealed that all mammals, except for some insects and protozoans, share the same ECS in their bodies. The ECS is responsible for maintaining homeostasis throughout the body and for regulating the functions of the brain, endocrine, nervous, and immune systems through a set of CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors.

Since animals and humans have the same receptors, it means that cats can naturally interact with the cannabinoids present in CBD oil. This research on the ECS proves why the dogs in the aforementioned study didn’t experience any adverse effects after taking CBD oil for dogs.

CBD Products for Cats with Cancer

Before we elaborate on the benefits of CBD for cats with cancer, let’s take a look at different product types — and what purpose they serve best.

CBD Oils

CBD oil is the most popular form when it comes to giving CBD to cats with cancer. When people mention the best CBD oil for cats, they typically refer to using tinctures to alleviate certain symptoms.

CBD oil is administered with a dropper, which allows for an easy application in the mouth. You can choose from various flavors, from natural to pet-appealing flavors like bacon or cheese.

CBD Capsules

CBD capsules are a good alternative to use in cats because they provide a fixed amount of CBD in each serving. Each capsule can be administered once or twice a day, depending on your veterinarian’s recommendation.

CBD capsules contain between 5 and 20 mg of CBD, so make sure to consult your vet before application. You can mix these pills into your pet’s food to make them easier to consume.

CBD Treats

Similar to capsules, CBD pet treats contain a premeasured dose of CBD per piece. They come in appealing shapes and textures; you can choose from flavors like bacon, cheese, salmon, catmint, or peanut butter. Just keep in mind that the dosage in CBD treats and capsules may not be as accurate as with oils, so again, you should talk to a holistic veterinarian to estimate the proper dosage for your cat.

CBD Topicals

Topical formulations include products such as lotions, creams, balms, and ointments. They are used to address localized discomfort, such as pain, redness, swelling, and irritation. For cats with cancer, CBD topicals can provide pain relief from stiff and inflamed joints, as well as from abdominal issues. Topicals are often infused with other supportive ingredients that enhance the therapeutic properties of CBD (e.g. herbal extracts, fruit oils, plant-based oils, and butter).

Can CBD Oil Treat Cancer in Cats?

Several clinical trials have suggested that CBD can cause programmed death of cancer cells in cats and contribute to the inhibition of tumor growth. Here we elaborate on both of these properties.

CBD for Cancer Cell Death

In a 2011 study, researchers examined the effects of CBD on breast cancer cells. Although the study was conducted in vitro, meaning it used a sample dish or test tube instead of a living organism, the results were quite promising.

The authors found that CBD could help speed up programmed death on the cancer cells without damaging the healthy ones. The mechanism behind this action is relatively unclear, but the cannabinoid was able to destroy malignant cells, and cause apoptosis (the said programmed cell death).

Since cancer is triggered by the abnormal growth of malignant cells, their elimination proves that CBD is involved in regulating cell growth.

CBD for Tumor Growth

In the same year, the Breast Cancer Research and Treatment journal posted a similar study on breast cancer cells.

This time, the study was conducted on mice and found that CBD can inhibit the growth of breast cancer in the subjects. Moreover, researchers also learned that it could reduce metastasis — a scientific name for the development of secondary cancer growths.

In another study — this time from 2003 — the authors revealed that cannabinoid receptors exist in both healthy and cancerous skin cells of mice. The researchers found that by targeting these receptors with cannabinoids, the compounds induced cell death while slowing down the growth of skin cancer.

Several studies also link CBD with slowed angiogenesis. Angiogenesis is the process that spurs tumor growth by forming new blood vessels.

What Side Effects of Cancer May CBD Alleviate?

Although CBD hemp oil for cats isn’t an approved cancer treatment for cats, it is capable of providing relief from many of the side effects associated with conventional cancer treatments.

Three main options for treating cancer in cats include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery. Although these methods can effectively manage cancer cells in felines, they also have a lot of long-term side effects, such as vomiting, nausea, loss of appetite, inflammation, pain, and insomnia.

Below we explain how CBD may help alleviate these symptoms in cats with cancer.

Chronic Pain

Cats with cancer experience mild to severe pain. Treatments such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery, can also lead to problems with pain management.

Veterinarians usually prescribe Tramadol, which is a popular analgesic for cancer pain. However, its effectiveness in treating acute or traumatic pain is questionable, and its non-opioid mechanism may not provide relief for felines.

The aforementioned study on dogs with osteoarthritis showed that dogs given CBD oil products experience significantly less pain than their counterparts treated with conventional methods. On top of that, the dogs became more active after the study after using CBD oil for dogs with arthritis.

This clinical study also noted that CBD oil didn’t produce any side effects despite a relatively high dosage of 2 mg of CBD per kilo of body weight every 12 hours for one month.

Inflammation

Squamous cell carcinoma in cats begins as a small patch of sore skin and oral tumors, which, if not taken care of, could herald the growth of cancerous cells in the body. Inflammation is the most common contributor to the symptoms of squamous cell carcinoma in cats.

A study conducted in 2000 revealed that whole-plant CBD extracts possess remarkable anti-inflammatory properties. The study also investigated the efficacy of cannabinoids on mice with collagen-induced arthritis and concluded that CBD was able to improve both conditions on these subjects.

A follow-up experiment from 2004 that used a novel synthetic cannabinoid acid on mice with arthritis yielded the same results. The compound was found to have suppressive effects on the immune cells while also producing pro-inflammatory mediators, an indicator that it’s a novel, anti-inflammatory molecule.

Nausea and Vomiting

Nausea is a common side effect in cats that are treated with radiotherapy or chemotherapy to control the growth of cancer. Such treatments affect the lining of the intestines and stomach, leading to nausea and vomiting.

The modulation of the ECS is associated with reduced nausea. A 2011 study showed that a wide range of animals can benefit from the anti-emetic properties of CBD. Additional evidence also points to CBD as a potential antiemetic agent for the side effects of chemotherapy.

Causes of Cancer in Cats

Several factors can trigger or speed up the growth of cancer in a cat, including:

Aging

Aging is inevitable for all animals; it’s also one of the main reasons behind cancers in many cats. Aging can speed up cancer growth for several reasons.

According to one theory, the mutations in aging cells accumulate over the years, which increases the chances of cancerous cell division. Degeneration of the cat’s body is another possible cause.

For example, chronic inflammation experienced by cats over the years may wreak havoc on their DNA and compromise the immune system. This, in turn, may lead to the uncontrolled growth of malignant cells.

Fibrosarcoma

Fibrosarcoma is a type of feline cancer that occurs in the cat’s soft tissue. It is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Although fibrosarcoma doesn’t have an identified specific cause, most cats with this cancer developed it at a prior injection site.

Intact Reproductive Organs

If your cat isn’t neutered or spayed, they are at a higher risk of developing cancer in their bodies. Unspayed female cats can develop breast and ovarian cancer, while unneutered males may suffer from prostate cancer.

Cats that have undergone spaying or neutering can also live longer and healthier lives.

Carcinogens

Carcinogens are the substances that cause cancer through mutations in the genes that eventually turn into cancerous cells in your cat’s body. Cats can be exposed to the same carcinogens as humans, including food additives, tobacco smoke, asbestos, radiation, benzene, and x-ray.

Is CBD Safe for Cats with Cancer?

Before you give CBD oil to your cat with cancer, you should be aware of the possible side effects.

CBD is generally considered safe and well-tolerated in both humans and animals — even in high doses administered over several weeks.

That being said, giving your cat too much CBD can result in:

  • Dry mouth
  • Dizziness
  • Sedation
  • Changes in appetite
  • Diarrhea

CBD is also known to compromise the liver’s ability to metabolize pharmaceutical compounds in most medications. If your cat is on any medication, consult your veterinarian before incorporating CBD into their routine. Doing so will help you establish the right dosage and avoid potential negative interactions between CBD and your cat’s meds.

Key Takeaways on CBD and Cats with Cancer

While cancer isn’t as common in cats as it is in dogs, the symptoms of feline cancer can significantly worsen the quality of their life. Some of the cancer signs in cats include lumps, persistent sores, loss of appetite, unexplained bleeding, and lameness.

Conventional medications, while effective, can also bring undesired side effects, some of which can have a particularly negative outcome on your cat’s health.

CBD is a promising solution for cats with cancer. Studies have shown that it can induce apoptosis and slow down the growth of cancerous cells. Moreover, you can give your cat CBD oil to help them cope with the side effects of radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgery; these include pain, inflammation, nausea, and loss of appetite.

Although we still lack sufficient clinical evidence to support the use of CBD as monotherapy for cancer, current findings are very promising, to say the least.

Do you have any experience in using CBD oil in cats with cancer? Share your stories in the comment section!

References:

  1. Gamble, L. J., Boesch, J. M., Frye, C. W., Schwark, W. S., Mann, S., Wolfe, L., Brown, H., Berthelsen, E. S., & Wakshlag, J. J. (2018). Pharmacokinetics, Safety, and Clinical Efficacy of Cannabidiol Treatment in Osteoarthritic Dogs. Frontiers in veterinary science5, 165. https://doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2018.00165 [1]
  2. Shrivastava, A., Kuzontkoski, P. M., Groopman, J. E., & Prasad, A. (2011). Cannabidiol induces programmed cell death in breast cancer cells by coordinating the cross-talk between apoptosis and autophagy. Molecular cancer therapeutics10(7), 1161–1172. https://doi.org/10.1158/1535-7163.MCT-10-1100 [2]
  3. McAllister, S. D., Murase, R., Christian, R. T., Lau, D., Zielinski, A. J., Allison, J., Almanza, C., Pakdel, A., Lee, J., Limbad, C., Liu, Y., Debs, R. J., Moore, D. H., & Desprez, P. Y. (2011). Pathways mediating the effects of cannabidiol on the reduction of breast cancer cell proliferation, invasion, and metastasis. Breast cancer research and treatment129(1), 37–47. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10549-010-1177-4 [3]
  4. Casanova, M. L., Blázquez, C., Martínez-Palacio, J., Villanueva, C., Fernández-Aceñero, M. J., Huffman, J. W., Jorcano, J. L., & Guzmán, M. (2003). Inhibition of skin tumor growth and angiogenesis in vivo by activation of cannabinoid receptors. The Journal of clinical investigation111(1), 43–50. https://doi.org/10.1172/JCI16116
  5. Malfait, A. M., Gallily, R., Sumariwalla, P. F., Malik, A. S., Andreakos, E., Mechoulam, R., & Feldmann, M. (2000). The nonpsychoactive cannabis constituent cannabidiol is an oral anti-arthritic therapeutic in murine collagen-induced arthritis. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America97(17), 9561–9566. https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.160105897
  6. Sumariwalla, P. F., Gallily, R., Tchilibon, S., Fride, E., Mechoulam, R., & Feldmann, M. (2004). A novel synthetic, nonpsychoactive cannabinoid acid (HU-320) with antiinflammatory properties in murine collagen-induced arthritis. Arthritis and rheumatism50(3), 985–998. https://doi.org/10.1002/art.20050
  7. Parker, L. A., Rock, E. M., & Limebeer, C. L. (2011). Regulation of nausea and vomiting by cannabinoids. British journal of pharmacology163(7), 1411–1422. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1476-5381.2010.01176.x [7]
  8. Iffland, K., & Grotenhermen, F. (2017). An Update on Safety and Side Effects of Cannabidiol: A Review of Clinical Data and Relevant Animal Studies. Cannabis and cannabinoid research2(1), 139–154. https://doi.org/10.1089/can.2016.0034 [8]
Nina Julia

Nina created CFAH.org following the birth of her second child. She was a science and math teacher for 6 years prior to becoming a parent — teaching in schools in White Plains, New York and later in Paterson, New Jersey.

Best CBD Oil For Cats With Cancer: What is CBD Oil and How Does it Help?

As people, we can consume as much THC as we deem desirable because our endocannabinoid systems, or ECS, are equipped to handle THC molecules. However, the endocannabinoid system of a cat cannot handle CBD with a THC concentration of more than 0.3%, which is the official THC limit for CBD.

Short for cannabidiol, CBD is a compound that comes from the cannabis plant family. Both marijuana plants and hemp plants contain CBD. When people take CBD, they have the option of choosing between CBD extracted from hemp plants or CBD from marijuana plants. The situation is different for cats. The oil that is safe for cats is fully hemp-derived.

So, CBD is a plant-derived substance with a tetrahydrocannabinol concentration at or below 0.3%. So, what does CBD do, and why is it suggested for cats with cancer?

Well, cats can be given CBD to relieve a lot of the pain-related side effects of cancer treatment. Radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgery are three of the most common treatment options for cancer in cats.

While it’s impressive that there are ways to treat cats with cancer, the treatment options come with a lot of undesirable effects. From dizziness and nausea to muscle soreness and cognitive stress, there are many adverse effects from the most popular cancer treatment options.

There is a seemingly endless number of health benefits and positive effects of CBD on cats with cancer. Let’s take a look at the many ways CBD can drastically improve the quality of life for cats with cancer! As well, we’ll discuss the best CBD for cats with cancer.

  • Calming of inflammation
  • Soothing of aching bones
  • Relief of upset stomachs
  • Reducing/minimizing pain
  • Lowering of high-stress levels
  • Relaxation for anxious cats
  • Helping with depression symptoms
  • Reducing the frequency of seizures

Please know that CBD is in no way, shape, or form intended to treat cancer in cats. The compounds in CBD may be able to stunt tumor growth and even cause cell death of cancer cells, but that should be considered a bonus if it happens.

CBD is not a cure for treating cancer, but instead, CBD helps your cat stay comfortable while undergoing other medical treatments for their disease. CBD oil is not able to prevent cancer in cats, either. It simply alleviates the unwanted pain and intolerable discomfort caused by your cat’s cancer treatments, as well as the disease itself. As well, by helping to stimulate appetite, CBD can help a cat keep up their strength when fighting cancer.

Just like pet owners, cats run the risk of receiving a cancer diagnosis at any point in their lives. Many different types of cancer threaten the health and well-being of cats. While there are more than four types of cancer in cats , we are going to focus on the most common types of feline cancer growth, including leukemia, lymphoma, feline squamous cell carcinoma, and mammary cancer. Unlike many other diseases, the symptoms of cancer are not as obvious. Symptoms of cancer are dependent on where the cancer is followed by how big it is and its effects on the surrounding areas and organs. Common signs and symptoms of cancer include immense fatigue, weight loss, changes in the skin, loss of appetite, swollen lymph nodes, bumps, and sores.

Feline Leukemia and Lymphoma

Both feline leukemia and lymphoma in cats stem from a virus known as the feline leukemia virus. Abbreviated as FeLV, the virus transfers very quickly from one cat to the others. For this reason, cats that are infected with FeLV should not be allowed to play with healthy cats, and vice versa. As one of the many types of feline cancer, FeLV arises when cancer cells make a home out of a cat’s immune system. Often mistaken for lymphoma, leukemia is a more fatal form of feline cancer because it targets the immune system directly. Feline lymphoma is lymphatic cancer, meaning it affects the lymph nodes of cats. Lymph nodes communicate with a large percentage of the rest of your cat’s body. Since lymphoma is malignant, the cancer cells can move from the lymphatic system to other parts of the body by way of lymph nodes. Both leukemia and lymphoma are cancers of the blood, making them both incredibly high priority because they pose a severe danger to the full body of cats. The cancer cells of leukemia and lymphoma are fast-moving as well.

Feline Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Squamous cell carcinoma in cats is a type of skin cancer. Malignant tumors develop in the squamous epithelium, which is the outermost layer of a cat’s epidermis. As a skin cancer, squamous cell carcinoma might travel from one layer of the skin to another, meaning its cancerous skin cells can metastasize over time, especially if it goes undetected. This means not only can it cause additional skin tumor growth, it can cause cancer in other parts of the body, leading to breast and ovarian cancer along with many others.

Mammary Cancer in Cats

Feline mammary cancer is a cancer of the breasts. Female cats are at a considerably greater risk for developing mammary cancer, even more so if they have not been spayed. Male cats do have mammary glands and can form breast cancer cells and get breast cancer, however, it’s very rare because their mammary glands are undeveloped.

CBD oil for cats is not only safe for cats to consume, but it’s also legal! CBD for cats is hemp-derived, meaning the oils are extracted from hemp plants rather than marijuana. Even though hemp and marijuana are both cannabis plants, hemp plants naturally contain less than 0.3% THC, which makes it safe for cats to ingest!

There’s a misconception that CBD oil for cats has to be in the form of a CBD isolate, meaning it only contains CBD and absolutely no THC and not full spectrum CBD. Cats can consume CBD that includes a THC concentration of no more than 0.3% because this percentage is considered to be a trace amount of THC, so it won’t cause your cat to get high.

To get high, a much more significant amount of THC must be present. However, there should never be more THC present in the CBD oil that you give to your cat. No matter if THC is present in high or low doses, any amount of THC above 0.3% is incredibly toxic for cats. Our feline friends can lose their lives as a result of ingesting CBD with more than 0.3% THC.

It’s necessary to pay close attention to the amount of THC in CBD oil before giving it to your cat. Even so, when you use CBD to improve your cat’s quality of life, it’s essential to make sure that there’s a label on the container that says the cannabidiol oil is intended for use with pets. When extracted from hemp plants, CBD is accompanied by many different essential oils, terpenes, and flavonoids, all of which are also naturally occurring in hemp.

While the oils, terpenes, and flavonoids are safe for human beings to consume, they might cause adverse reactions in pets. This doesn’t happen every time with every cat, but the fact that it’s possible should be reason enough to avoid administering CBD for people to your cats. For the sake of erring on the side of caution, make sure you only give pet-friendly CBD products to your cats!

There are three main variations of CBD products.

Full spectrum hemp means it contains not just cannabidiol, but all 113+ cannabinoids along with the aromatic terpenes found in cannabis, including THC. Full spectrum CBD products are the most popular version of CBD. This is because it appears most, if not all the cannabinoids, as well as the terpenes, have therapeutic benefits of their own.

Broad spectrum CBD means one or more of the cannabinoids have been removed during the extraction process. While most of our CBD products use full spectrum hemp extract, we do offer a very high-potency broad spectrum CBD oil but use broad spectrum extraction to keep the THC under 0.3% while increasing the concentration of all the other goodies.

CBD isolate isn’t an easy thing to find for either dogs or cats. CBD isolate can be particularly difficult to figure out the best dosage for cats and other non-speaking animals. This is due to isolates requiring a precise dosage not based on body weight, unlike broad spectrum as well as our full spectrum CBD oil. This happens because the cannabinoids and terpenes work with both the endocannabinoid system and each other to make sure everyone is able to do their job fully.

Because they are easier to dose and the benefits of CBD itself are greater, full spectrum CBD organic hemp is our first choice.

Hemp Seed Oil

Unlike the hemp extracts from above, hemp seed oil or just organic hemp oil comes from the seeds of the cannabis plant, and while hemp seeds don’t contain CBD or THC, they are rich in omega fatty acids, protein, fiber, antioxidants, and other goodies that can help the body fight off cancerous cells. Full spectrum hemp extract or another, without a substance to increase bio-absorption, will let most of the CBD will go to waste. For CBD oils, we choose hemp oil over MCT oil. Hemp oil has fewer calories and better fats than MCT oil which can be unhealthy for our pets in large amounts. Just like everything else, we only select organic hemp in the creation of our hemp oil.

The Endocannabinoid System

We mentioned the endocannabinoid system briefly before. The endocannabinoid system in cats is the reason CBD has its major effects. Within the endocannabinoid system are cannabinoid receptors that latch onto CBD molecules, allowing them to become activated, meaning your cat can yield all of the health benefits of CBD! THC is unsafe for cats because it can overstimulate too many CB1 cannabinoid receptors, triggering a strong high they aren’t prepared to handle. Items like CBD oils, by the other hand, don’t overstimulate the cannabinoid receptors.

When properly activated, the receptors release signals in various parts of the body that help stabilize and repair the area, resulting in homeostasis. The receptors are naturally activated by neurotransmitters, but when under a lot of stress their numbers can fall on the wayside, leading to an abundance of health issues. This is why CBD can turn the tide against so many health problems.

Why CBD For Cats With Cancer?

While prescription medication options have been proven to be effective, they each come with a very long list of potential side effects, many of which are extremely concerning. Unlike prescription medication, CBD oil is entirely natural. One of the best qualities of CBD oil for cancer is that it’s an all-natural pain reliever. When it comes to pain management, there are many different prescription medications out there, but the one caveat is that they are partially artificial, if not entirely.

As a natural remedy for cancer pain and pain-related symptoms, CBD doesn’t contain any artificial by-products, additives, preservatives, or anything of the like. Natural remedies also have a much smaller list of adverse effects, especially when compared to those that might result from man-made prescription pain medications for cats.

Even so, just like everything that offers health benefits, there are a couple of effects you need to be aware of when giving CBD to your pet cat. Pet CBD oils are not toxic or fatal for cats to consume, but supplements don’t have to be deadly to cause adverse effects.

The first potential effect of CBD on your cat is sedation. This generally results from situations where pet owners give their cats a higher dose of CBD than they need. Nothing major will happen if a cat swallows too much CBD oil.

Your feline friend will simply drift away into a deep sleep, only to wake up at some point, feeling very relaxed. Some cats experience slight confusion when waking up from a CBD-induced nap, but being disoriented is pretty rare.

The other potential side effect of administering CBD to cats is something called gastrointestinal upset.

This is a fancier way of saying too much CBD can cause your cat to have an upset stomach. Ironically enough, CBD is a common natural remedy for upset stomachs, so the fact that it can also cause discomfort in the gastrointestinal tract of cats is shocking.

But think about it like this. Imagine your cat is eating their favorite dry food. When they eat just enough to satiate their hunger levels, your cats will feel full in a comfortable way. However, if they eat beyond the point of feeling satisfied, their stomachs will not take well to the extra food, which leads to an upset stomach.

The same goes for CBD! With the right amount, CBD won’t cause gastrointestinal upset. It only happens if too much CBD is administered to your pet.

After learning about the harmful effects of CBD on cats, the consensus is that it all comes down to properly dosing the CBD. Make sure you pay very close attention to the directions and dosage instructions on the side of the CBD oil bottle.

Cannabidiol oil and other products containing CBD are incredible, and we hope you don’t let the possibility of a negative side effect overshadow the numerous positive health benefits of feline CBD. As long as the dosage is correct, a cat’s life will seriously improve with the help of pet CBD.

Using CBD for your cat isn’t something you need to obtain a prescription for! Unlike other vet-approved pain medications, cannabis oil for cats can be purchased without a note from your cat’s veterinarian. Also commonly referred to as hemp oil, cat CBD oil is a controlled substance, but it doesn’t require a prescription before purchasing. Even though you do not legally need to secure a prescription from a vet before buying and administering CBD oil, we highly suggest discussing CBD with your cat’s vet. It’s highly likely that the veterinarian will support your decision to use CBD in your cat’s life, but it doesn’t hurt to consult your veterinarian first.

Our vets should always know what we are giving to our dogs and cats, including CBD. Additionally, if you ever have any questions about CBD, you can always turn to your cat’s vet and ask for their advice. If they aren’t as in tune with CBD for cats, they might even know a holistic veterinarian who can help answer your questions, too!

CBD oils are not the only CBD product available for treating cats. There are so many different CBD products on the market, and there’s undoubtedly more to come as the cat cannabis industry continues to evolve. Aside from CBD oils, a few other examples of CBD products for cats include…

  • Full spectrum Pet tincture
  • Sprayable CBD Capsules for swallowing
  • CBD cat treats
  • CBD-infused chews
  • Hemp-based dry treats

Can You Give Human CBD Oil To Cats?

As long as your CBD doesn’t contain more than 0.3% THC, your CBD product should be A-OK for your cat. One thing that can make it unsafe is your CBD product vs. pet CBD is likely much more concentrated and potent than your cat’s to account for the weight difference. So cat owners should be very careful when giving their cats hemp oils meant for humans because even 1 mg of CBD is a moderate amount depending on their size. As well, don’t be tempted into thinking that you’ll get a higher quality CBD oil if it’s for humans vs. pet CBD.

Cat owners can find a lot of comfort in knowing that CBD is a fantastic option for helping soothe their pets with cancer. As the most natural supplement out there, CBD is also the safest addition to the life of a cat in pain. As we mentioned, you should consult a vet before introducing CBD oil into your cat’s lifestyle. Every cat is different, and some cats won’t take to CBD as well as others.

There is no singular best CBD for cats with cancer.

Are CBD Oils Right For My Cat?

If you aren’t sure if CBD is suitable for your cat, seek advice from professionals or reach out to us today! We can offer more information to help you make your decision. If you’re struggling with getting your cat to take their hemp oil, CBD cat treats are available. While it is easier to be precise with CBD oil dosage, a general dosage is more than perfect for most pets. At Innovet Pet, our goal is to constantly strive to create the best CBD oil for cats with cancer.

Before using CBD, you first need to find the right CBD oil for your cat! At Innovet Pet , we offer the best high-quality CBD oil with hemp seed oil that pet owners can trust. Every CBD product from Innovet Pet is third-party lab tested to triple-check the quality, so you can rest assured knowing that we only sell the best of the best!

You can find the lab results, better known as Certificates of Analysis, easily on our website. Free of pesticides, MCT oil, and other unsavory chemicals, we only select the best organic hemp plants to create our CBD oil and other products. Check out our inventory of cat CBD products today.

Can CBD Oil Treat Cancer?

It’s important for us to state again, that CBD oil is not a cancer treatment for fighting cancer itself. However, for many humans and pets, CBD oil has been an essential tool for use alongside common cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

While effective and many times life-saving, modern cancer treatments take a heavy toll on the body. But many have found tremendous success using CBD oil to mitigate the harsh side effects of pain, fatigue, nausea, inflammation, and more. CBD isn’t the end-all-be-all, but it sure is one of the most exciting things for us, dogs, and our lovely cats.

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