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Is CBD Safe For Cats?
It’s no secret that CBD can help treat chronic pain, anxiety and other conditions in humans, but what about cats?
Well, we’ve learned a lot since we originally published this post in 2019. Over the years, more and more veterinarians have begun to recommend CBD as a treatment for similar conditions in pets — most notably cats.
And, in the wake of this growing treatment trend, CBD pet treat brands have popped up all over the place.
A recent article in Pet Age magazine examines the prevalence of CBD in the pet industry, pointing to it’s opportunities and challenges, and noting the surge in interest is largely “driven by increasing pet ownership and a societal shift toward natural, holistic health solutions.”
“The pet CBD market has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past decade, shifting from a niche concept into a thriving and dynamic sector.” – PET AGE
Now, we realize that when it comes to giving your cat something new, it can be a lot to digest.
While the treatment has obvious health benefits for humans, many still question its legitimacy for our furry friends.
So the question of whether CBD is safe for your cat is tricky. The best answer right now in 2025 would be — “Yes, but know this…”
Before delve into the why, let’s take a few steps back.
What is CBD?
Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of around 100 compounds derived from the cannabis plant.
Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the most common active compound found in the cannabis plant, CBD does not cause psychoactive effects.
While CBD oil typically does contain minute traces of THC, it will not cause a ‘high’ to those ingesting it and studies are currently ongoing to its effectiveness in humans and animals.
Despite its rapid growth over the years, the pet CBD market continues to operate in a challenging regulatory landscape, according to Pet Age.
While the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has yet to establish a clear framework for CBD products, early stage studies in dogs have shown promising results. For example, a study conducted by Cornell University “found that CBD reduced pain in 80 percent of participating dogs with minimal side effects.”
When is CBD Used to Treat Cats?
While there aren’t many traditional medical recommendations about the effectiveness of CBD as a treatment or cure for ailments in cats, it is most often recommended as a treatment to cats to aid in providing comfort and quality of life. Most often, CBD is recommended as a treatment for cats suffering from:
- Cancer
- Separation (or other) anxiety
- Lack of appetite
- Arthritis
- Chronic pain
- Inflammation
- Seizures
But, similar to the situation in 2019, some veterinarians still remain hesitant prescribing CBD.
“While these early findings are encouraging, more comprehensive, peer-reviewed studies are needed to validate CBD’s safety and efficacy across different conditions and species. This lack of robust scientific data also complicates the role of veterinarians. Many remain hesitant to recommend CBD due to unclear legal and professional guidelines, despite increasing consumer interest in these products.”
The lingering stigma around CBD is largely due to the fact that it remains classified as a Schedule 1 Drug under federal law unless the products containing CBD are approved by the FDA.
So…
Is CBD Safe for Cats?
When administered in a proper dosage, CBD oil is safe for cats – though the cannabis plant and THC are not.
Be aware that cats may experience slight drowsiness or indigestion as side effects of CBD. And if that’s not enough…
A study conducted in 2024 by the Waltham Petcare Science Institute indicated that healthy cats can tolerate long-term daily feeding of CBD.
As mentioned earlier, the USDA does not regulate CBD products, so if you are considering using it for your cat, it’s important to consult your veterinarian to find a product with closely regulated CBD levels, that is free of THC and has been laboratory tested for safety.
How to KNOW if CBD is the Right Option for Your Cat
When it comes to deciding whether CBD is worth trying as a treatment for your cat — ask your veterinarian. In fact, always consult your vet before making any decisions about your cat’s health for treatment advice, product recommendations, and dosage instructions.
If you’ve tried CBD as a treatment for your cat, we’d love to hear more. Leave a comment below telling us about your experience!
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