CBD can benefit our cat friends, too. Oftentimes, cats are thought of as low-maintenance pets. While this may be true for some cats, other feline friends may need more support than others. For these slightly higher maintenance kitties, owners have been turning to CBD for support for a variety of reasons. 

With its wide net of potential benefits — it is a great addition to the wellness toolkit needed for your fur baby.  But is it safe and effective? Early research and anecdotal evidence suggest that CBD may help with a variety of health needs, such as stress, discomfort relief, and even appetite regulation [1]. However, choosing high-quality products and consulting a veterinarian before use is strongly recommended.

CBD Benefits for Cats

CBD oil benefits for stress and discomfort come from its interaction with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a network of receptors in the brain, nervous system, and immune system that helps regulate various biological functions. When CBD is introduced into a cat's body, it binds to these receptors, particularly CB1 and CB2 receptors, which play a role in regulating pain, mood, immune response, and stress levels. 

Many pet owners wonder if CBD actually works for cats. While clinical research is currently scarce, it’s still ongoing, and anecdotal evidence and early studies suggest that CBD may help with stress, discomfort, and even behavioral issues [1]. One of the most common questions is, does CBD calm cats? 

The answer appears to be yes — many cat owners report that CBD helps reduce stress and promotes relaxation, which can be particularly useful for nervous or aggressive cats. Additionally, CBD’s immune supporting properties may provide relief for cats dealing with chronic discomfort or mobility issues.

Some of the potential benefits of CBD for cats include:

• Calming effects – Helps reduce stress and aggression.
  

• Improved mobility – Supports joint mobility and a normal inflammatory response in pets.

• Appetite stimulation – May encourage eating in cats experiencing nausea or loss of appetite.

• General wellness – Supports overall well-being by promoting a balanced mood and healthy immune system.

As we wait for more clinical research to provide evidence of the benefits, we can lean on anecdotal evidence to understand how pet owners are using CBD for their cats. 

This Reddit user praises CBD for its effects on their elder cat, “I use CBD on our 11 year old Maine Coon for joint pain and overall quality of life. She is doing AMAZING on it, sprightly, lively, happy and playful. I will attest to the effects of CBD for cats as far as pain goes!!”

In a review for our CBD Oil for Cats, Zachary says, “I give it to my cat at night because he get hyper and pounces on me in my sleep and meows all night. Thanks to this he relaxes and sleeps throughout the night. Thank you.”

Safety

The general consensus among veterinarians and researchers is that high-quality, THC-free CBD products designed specifically for pets are safe when used correctly. To safely give your cat CBD, it’s crucial to choose products that are free from harmful additives, pesticides, or solvents, as these can pose health risks. 

Proper dosing is also essential — too much CBD may cause mild side effects like drowsiness, changes in appetite, or digestive issues. CBD isn’t bad for cats because it’s not inherently dangerous. However, THC (the psychoactive compound in cannabis) is toxic to cats, so always ensure the product contains 0% THC. 

Individual cats may respond differently, which is why it’s best to start with a low dose and monitor their reaction. Cats can indeed have CBD oil, but it should be introduced gradually, and consulting a veterinarian beforehand can help ensure it’s the right choice for your cat’s specific health needs.

Side Effects

While CBD is generally considered safe for cats, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects. Some felines may experience mild side effects, especially when first starting CBD or if given too high a dose. These effects can include drowsiness, dry mouth, changes in appetite, or mild digestive upset. In most cases, these symptoms are temporary and subside as the cat’s body adjusts. 

If a cat appears overly lethargic or experiences persistent discomfort, the dosage may need to be adjusted. To minimize the risk of side effects,  start with a low dose and gradually increase as needed. Always choose high-quality, pet-specific CBD products and consult a veterinarian to ensure safe and effective use.

Dosage

Determining the right dosage of CBD oil for your cat is crucial for safety and effectiveness. The amount should be carefully measured based on your cat’s weight, health condition, and individual response. Most veterinarians recommend starting with a low dose — typically around 1–2 mg of CBD per 10 pounds of body weight — and gradually increasing if needed. 

It’s best to use high-quality, pet-specific CBD oil, preferably flavorless or formulated for cats, to ensure they tolerate it well. If you know that your cat is a picky eater, then it may be best to go with a flavorless CBD option since unflavored CBD oil may be easier to mix with food or administer directly. Always follow dosing guidelines provided by the manufacturer, as all CBD products are unique and suggest dosages based on the specific formula of each product.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does CBD make cats high?

No, CBD does not make cats high. Unlike THC, it is non-psychoactive and does not cause intoxication.

Can cats have CBD oil?

Yes, cats can have CBD oil, but it should be THC-free, high-quality, and dosed appropriately.

Is CBD bad for cats?

No, CBD is not bad for cats when used correctly. However, it’s important to ensure the product is THC-free and administered in the proper dose. 

Can CBD help calm your cat without sedation?

Yes, CBD can calm a cat without sedation. It may help reduce stress by interacting with the endocannabinoid system, promoting relaxation without making the cat drowsy or lethargic [1].

References

1. Corsato Alvarenga, I., Panickar, K. S., Hess, H., & McGrath, S. (2023). Scientific validation of cannabidiol for management of dog and cat diseases. Annual review of animal biosciences, 11(1), 227-246.