Hello informed pet owners
I apologize for missing an information blog the last couple months. The holidays are
always busy but this year I lost my 96 year-old mother in early December. It kind of set
me back a bit. She was an avid cat lover and lived a long and fruitful life. I don’t think we
can ask for more than that.

I hope you are all kicking off 2024 with a bang and that your pets are all healthy and
happy.

I’ve been meaning to take a shot at discussing the use of cannabis in animals for quite
some time. I’m finding it difficult because all the scientific and/or observed information
out there changes by the day. Most truly scientific research being done is in its early
stages and few proven conclusions have been published.
But that doesn’t stop us from trying things now, does it? Of the nearly 150 cannabinoids
found in the Cannabis sativa plant the most commonly used is CBD. The nutraceutical
companies jumped on it early in people with mixed reviews and it was no surprise that it
moved to our four legged family members. The cannabis plant, which contains both
CBD and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), is legally categorized as hemp (<.0.3% THC dry
weight) or marijuana (>0.3% THC).
CBD is available in a multitude of forms such as treats and chews, salves or lotions and
oil-based tinctures. Both owners and veterinarians alike report mixed or limited results,
mostly for mild conditions in their pets. The regulation of CBD is not strict and, in some
cases, doesn’t exist. The one thing that should be pointed out is that there have been
little to no side effects reported in the literature from the use of CBD in domestic pets.
Broader spectrum compounds with various other cannabinoids with or without trace
amounts of THC may be more effective for chronic or severe conditions. However, safe,
even trace THC doses have not been established and THC is still considered a
dangerous toxin to domestic animals.
As is typical, our legislative and regulatory agencies are often slow to act. In California,
until last year it was against our veterinary practice act for us to even discuss the use of
any form of cannabis with our clients. It is now allowed but many veterinarians
(including the ones at BVC) are reluctant to discuss or recommend a product that has
not been proven.
Our doctors all continue to read and educate themselves on new and proven treatments
and compounds constantly. Stay tuned as this product’s use in domestic animals
evolves.