CBD is a popular natural remedy for many ailments, including anxiety, pain relief, and inflammation. But did you know that CBD can also be helpful for dogs suffering from seizures?
In this guide to using CBD for dog seizures, we’ll cover everything you need to know about this condition, including how CBD works, the proper dosage to give your pup, and which products are best suited for treatment.
CBD may be worth considering whether you’re looking for an alternative to traditional seizure medication or want to try something new. Let’s dive in.
What is CBD, and how can it help with seizures?
Cannabidiol (CBD) has been shown to have anticonvulsant properties and may effectively reduce the frequency and severity of seizures in dogs.
CBD works by interacting with the endocannabinoid system in the body, which regulates various physiological processes, including pain, inflammation, anxiety, and other brain functions.
Studies have shown CBD can reduce seizure frequency and severity in dogs with epilepsy and other seizure disorders.
One study found that CBD reduced the frequency of seizures in 89% of dogs with epilepsy, with no adverse side effects reported.
It is also important to note that CBD does not cure seizure disorders. It should be part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes regular veterinary care and management of underlying health conditions.
How CBD compares to canine epilepsy medications
CBD is a non-intoxicating compound derived from the hemp plant that has been shown to have anticonvulsant properties.
It works by interacting with the endocannabinoid system in the body, which plays a role in regulating brain function. The best CBD for dogs is organically sourced and third-party tested, with few reported side effects. Let’s see how it compares to other common medications for canine seizures.
Phenobarbital
Phenobarbital is a barbiturate that is commonly used to treat seizures in dogs. It works by increasing the level of the neurotransmitter GABA in the brain, which helps to reduce the electrical activity that can lead to seizures. However, phenobarbital can have several side effects, including lethargy, increased thirst and appetite, and liver damage with long-term use.
Potassium bromide
Potassium bromide is another medication commonly used to treat seizures in dogs.
It works by reducing the excitability of neurons in the brain. While it can effectively mitigate seizures, it can also have side effects such as vomiting, loss of appetite, and lethargy.
Additionally, it can take several weeks to reach therapeutic levels in the blood and may interact with other medications.
Levetiracetam
Levetiracetam is a newer medication sometimes used to treat seizures in dogs. It works by modulating the release of neurotransmitters in the brain, which can help to reduce seizure activity.
It is generally well-tolerated but can cause side effects such as lethargy and decreased appetite.
Studies on CBD and dog seizures
Recent research studies have been conducted to examine the effects of CBD on seizures in dogs. While each study is unique and designed differently, they analyze how cannabinoids interact with the body, their therapeutic potential, and the safety of supplementing a pet’s diet with CBD.
One 2019 study looked at dogs over 12 weeks and determined CBD effectively reduced seizure activity while relieving them from additional symptoms associated with canine epilepsy.
Another study focused on anecdotal evidence and conducted clinical trials over eight weeks to assess how various dosages could reduce frequency and severity levels in dogs diagnosed with idiopathic epilepsy.
Additionally, the effects of CBD were compared to those found in traditional pharmaceuticals such as phenobarbital or potassium bromide. Both studies showed promising results regarding using CBD for seizures in dogs, further boosting its therapeutic potential.
Buying the right CBD for canine epilepsy
With the rise in popularity of CBD, it can be challenging to sort through the endless amount of companies to find one that offers quality ingredients for your pup.
One main factor to consider is full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, or CBD isolate. Many experts consider full-spectrum the most effective as it contains a variety of cannabinoids (CBD is one of them) that work better together.
You’ll also want to check that the brand does third-party testing. This checks for possible contaminants and pesticides and ensures that the CBD amount matches the label.
Finally, we recommend reading reviews from other pet owners who have had success with their CBD purchases.
A final word on using CBD to prevent dog seizures
CBD is a natural compound that has shown promise in helping to treat seizures in dogs. It interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which helps regulate various bodily functions, including pain, inflammation, and anxiety. CBD is generally considered safe for dogs, with few side effects reported. However, starting with a low dose and gradually increasing it as needed is essential to avoid potential adverse reactions.
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