5 Important Uses of CBD for Seniors
Don’t OVER MEDICATE your older dog or cat.
Our senior pets can get an array of health conditions, and this can lead to UMPTEEN pills…
My Father In-law is on about 7 different medications. How do you even keep track of that, never mind ensure that there are not drug interactions/side effects?
I prefer the simpler method… fewer treatments, and preferably natural ones with few to no side effects.
Cannabidiol (CBD), is one of those options. We do have a Natural, Whole Plant Extract CBD tincture for Dogs and Cats. It’s here:
Exploring the Benefits of CBD for Aging Pets
As a practicing veterinarian and advocate for natural remedies, I’ve closely monitored the rise in popularity of Cannabidiol, or CBD, as a treatment for various ailments in humans and pets alike. Derived from the Cannabis sativa plant—more commonly known as marijuana or hemp—CBD offers significant health benefits without the psychoactive effects associated with THC, the main active ingredient in marijuana.
CBD is typically extracted from hemp, ensuring it contains only trace amounts of THC. While studies on CBD use are relatively limited, they often report minimal side effects such as dry mouth, diarrhea, reduced appetite, drowsiness, and fatigue. Moreover, when administered in proper doses, CBD interactions with other medications, like blood thinners, are uncommon.
Here are five key health benefits of CBD for our senior dogs and cats:
1. Pain Management
Many older pets suffer from arthritis and other painful conditions. CBD has emerged as a compelling natural alternative to traditional pain medications. Research suggests that CBD can effectively reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with joint issues, soft tissue inflammation, and arthritis.
2. Neurodegenerative Disorders
Our senior pets can also suffer from neurodegenerative diseases, leading to declines in cognitive and motor functions. Active research is exploring how CBD interacts with brain receptors, potentially offering benefits against conditions like cognitive dysfunction, which causes the brain and nerves to deteriorate over time.
3. Bone Health
As pets age, their bones become fragile and more prone to breaks. CBD has shown promise in reducing inflammation, promoting cell repair, and even strengthening bones. While more research is needed, the potential for CBD to enhance bone health and healing is promising.
4. Heart Health
Heart disease is not uncommon in older pets, often exacerbated by high blood pressure. Studies on CBD have found it effective in naturally treating high blood pressure and reducing cardiac inflammation. Its antioxidant properties may also help in protecting against cellular damage from oxidative stress.
5. Cancer Treatment
CBD may not only alleviate symptoms of cancer but also enhance the effectiveness of traditional treatments. Studies have shown that CBD can reduce tumor growth and possibly enhance the body’s absorption and potency of certain medications. Its anti-inflammatory properties might also play a role in changing how cells reproduce and reducing the ability of some tumors to grow.
Closing Thoughts
In the realm of medicine, I am a firm believer in the mantra “less is more," and preventing illness is always preferable. Ensuring a healthy diet (avoiding kibble), plenty of exercise, and love are foundational. If your pet is on multiple medications, consider discussing alternative, simpler options with your veterinarian.
P.S. For pet owners dealing with arthritic pets or those with cognitive dysfunction, I recommend trying my specially formulated CBD oil for dogs and cats. It’s a whole plant extract that includes a variety of beneficial cannabinoids and uses hemp seed oil as the carrier oil, which may enhance effectiveness. To get started, here’s a link to receive 10% OFF your purchase of Dr Jones’ ULTIMATE CBD for Dogs and Cats.