It is true that there is considerable data lacking in terms of using
cannabinoids in veterinary medicine, but the reports of pet owners and those
veterinarians who are experienced with hemp-sourced CBD are very promising.
Much of the current scientific information available is derived from work in lab
animals, especially rodents. From these studies, we have seen how CBD may help
animals who suffer from a variety of conditions, including cardiac, ocular, endocrine,
and orthopedic diseases. There have also been some studies done in dogs that have
demonstrated how CBD can be used to manage pain in comparison to other more
traditional treatments.
How is this achieved? When a cannabinoid, such as CBD, binds to a CB
receptor inside the body, it can cause inhibition of acetylcholine, dopamine, GABA,
histamine, serotonin and inflammatory cytokine release. These substances are
naturally occurring chemicals found in the body that are involved in various
pathways that are responsible for sensing of pain, development of mood, regulation
of appetite, stimulation of nausea, and cell growth and replication. In addition, some
cannabinoids can also bind to seratonin receptors which play an important role in
the development of anxiety.
This is the root of the mechanism of action of CBD and other cannabinoids:
that upon binding to these receptors, they decrease release of inflammatory
mediators and therefore diminish inflammation. In both humans and animals,
inflammation is involved in virtually all disease processes, regardless of the body
system or organ affected.
For companion animals afflicted with cancer, this means potential increase in
appetite, as well as less vomiting and nausea. For dogs suffering from arthritis or
spinal disorders this might mean less pain. For pets with irritable bowel disease,
this may help prevent weight loss and diarrhea. For cats, with asthma, this could
potentially decrease airway inflammation. For diabetics, this may mean less
neuropathy. For canine and feline patients with anxiety or stress related disorders,
this may be a more affective therapy than traditional behavioral drugs or may
augment the affects of standard therapies. For cats with leukemia or feline
immunodeficiency virus, this may be an alternative to failed treatments or
euthanasia.
Some will say we simply donât understand how fully CBD can help dogs and
cats because there is a lack of studies in these species, especially in comparison to
what we know about other drug classes such as opiods or NSAIDS. What is clear
from the information that is available is that cannabinoidsâand the complex ways
in which they impact the endocannabinoid systemâhold a lot of promise for our
canine and feline companions both as an adjuctive treatment in chronic disease, and
perhaps as an alternative to standard therapies when cost or unwanted side effects
prohibit their use