Yes, You read right––CBD can be for your pets too. Here's everything you need to know about using it and the products you can buy in Hong Kong
CBD––otherwise known as cannabidiol, is the active ingredient derived from a hemp plant. To some, this may still seem like affiliation to marijuana, hence the stigma surrounding it. But in reality, hemp plants don’t produce enough tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) to have an intoxicating effect. As stated by the World Health Organisation (WHO), CBD is a safe, non-toxic substance meaning, overdosing is virtually impossible. It also is suitable to use in food, beverages and with your pets.
“The best-studied disease process in our patients is osteoarthritis,” says Dr Joshua Steinhaus, medicine specialist at the Veterinary Specialty Hospital of Hong Kong. “There are several studies that show improvement in ambulation and pain scores when using CBD oil,” he explains. When it comes to recommending products to pets, Dr Steinhaus stresses the importance for owners to highly consider why the supplement is being used. “I would discuss that we do not know for sure of the long term effects of this and that chocolate is toxic to dogs (some edible forms of CBD come mixed with chocolate). Although rare, there can be side effects seen with these products.”
Individuals tend to consume CBD through oil drops which can be added to lattes for instance. Those who do, aim to better their feelings of anxiousness, pain and restlessness. And with pets, the case is similar as this natural supplement can assist your pups’ or cats’ nervousness, joint pain or sleep problems.
All mammals have an endocannabinoid system in their bodies. This is a complex biological system that impacts and regulates immune responses, appetite, digestion, sleep and mood. Cannabinoids bond with brain receptors to increase the body’s own ability to achieve wellness––striving for the best for your pet’s body, maintaining dynamic balance and keeping cells in the best working condition.
Editor's note: At the time of writing, CBD is legal in Hong Kong. According to the Department of Health in 2021, it is not a dangerous drug and is not controlled under the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance in Hong Kong.
See also: Where To Get CBD Drinks In Hong Kong
How Your Pet Can Take CBD:
If it’s a treat––the recommended serving size listed on the product packaging should suffice. And, as oil, you can either insert the oil’s dropper directly into your pet’s mouth and squeeze the dropper. A tip is to feed your pet their favourite treat shortly after to combat any emotions of them being overwhelmed. If the above doesn’t work, you can simply mix the CBD oil into your pets’ food.
How Much CBD Should My Pet Take?
In theory, the dose should revolve around your pet’s weight and the CBD potency of the oil tincture. Because all pets can respond differently, you should monitor your pet’s reaction for a couple of hours after consumption.
How Long Does It Take For CBD To Kick In?
It usually takes 30 to 45 minutes to start working, with a total of four to seven weeks to see noticeable results. Oils tend to kick in a little faster than treats––just because there are fewer ingredients for pets to break down first. With a bundle of options to choose from for your loving pet, there isn’t a difference in the effectiveness between oils and treats.
Here’s our list of where to find the best products in Hong Kong.
See also: 10 Edible CBD Products For Daily Calm
