The Best CBD for Cats: Top 8 Product Reviews
Table of Contents
Below is our best CBD for cats summary with top picks and reviews.
Image | Product | Features | Price |
---|---|---|---|
Organic, human-grade, full-spectrum CBD for cats that supports overall health. | Get on Honest Paws | ||
Organic, soft chews infused with CBD oil and ingredients that promote calmness. | Get on Honest Paws | ||
Vet-formulated, full-spectrum and relaxing hemp oil often available at discount prices. | Get on The Anxious Pet | ||
Vegan, human-grade, and broad-spectrum CBD oil for cats with chicken flavor. | Get on CBDfx | ||
Proprietary blend of organic, broad-spectrum hemp and coconut oil. | Get on Petly | ||
100% THC-free organic hemp CBD oil for cats with olive oil as a carrier. | Get on Joy Organics | ||
Broad-spectrum CBD oil for cats available in two strengths and two flavors. | Get on cbdMD | ||
Affordable and vegan broad-spectrum hemp CBD oil for cats and dogs. | Get on Extract Labs |
CBD for cats has many health benefits and supports the cat’s health and emotional wellness. CBD (cannabidiol) is a natural compound found in the Cannabis sativa plant.
The cannabis plant is a term including various strains, with hemp and marijuana being the most important. Both hemp and marijuana contain cannabinoids, but their exact cannabinoid profiles are different.
Namely, the two major cannabinoids are CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). CBD is a health-boosting compound with proven medicinal properties, while THC is psychoactive – it gives the popular “high” feeling and is toxic to pets.
The hemp plant cannabis variant is loaded with health-boosting CBDs and contains less than 0.3% of THC – an amount too small to cause problems. On the other hand, the marijuana plant variant is relatively low in CBDs and rich in psychoactive THC.
Therefore, the same as all pet CBD products, CBD oil for cats is always extracted from hemp plants. We should note that CBD supplements for humans can be made from both hemp and marijuana – that is why it is important to stick to products formulated specifically for cats and never give your pet human CBD oil.
Yes, when used responsibly and in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines, hemp-derived CBD oil is perfectly safe for cats.
According to a study investigating the safety of CBD products, “hemp-based CBD appears to be relatively safe in healthy populations of dogs and cats.”
The World Health Organization confirms this and, in its report on cannabidiol, states that “CBD is generally well-tolerated, with a good safety profile.”
Similarly, in an article published on the PetMD webpage, CBD is described as “very safe for cats.”
However, it should be noted that CBD is not FDA-approved for use in veterinary medicine. Also, despite being sold over-the-counter, it is advisable to consult with your trusted veterinarian before supplementing your feline friend.
Do Vets Recommend CBD Oil for Cats?
Vets are not legally allowed to recommend the use of CBD for cats. This is because CBD is not approved by the FDA for use in dogs and cats. However, if you have any concerns or questions about adding CBD to your cat’s health regimen, you can find a holistic veterinarian in your area willing to discuss the topic.
CBD supports the cat’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) and promotes health naturally.
CBD for cats works by interacting with the endocannabinoid system. The endocannabinoid system is a complex, regulatory system that manages vital body functions like sleep, appetite, pain, inflammation, mood, etc.
The ECS consists of endocannabinoids and endocannabinoid receptors. CBD replaces the body’s endocannabinoids, binds with the receptors, and promotes homeostasis – a state of balance and health.
What are the Benefits of CBD Oil for Cats?
The benefits of CBD for cats are that it naturally supports the cat’s health and improves its quality of life. CBD has strong anti-pain and anti-inflammatory features. All health benefits of CBD stem from its ability to interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS).
The ECS is responsible for maintaining a state of health and balance called homeostasis by regulating processes like sleep, appetite, inflammation, pain, immunity, etc. CBD replaces the system’s endocannabinoids, binds with its receptors, and boosts the ECS.
Here is a short list of the benefits of CBD for cats:
- Relieves pain and stiffness in cats with arthritis
- Helps with kidney disease and urinary incontinence
- Decreases the frequency and intensity of seizures
- Reduces stress, anxiety, and hyperactivity
- Helps in the treatment of certain types of feline cancer.
The Best CBD Oil for Cats Reviewed
With so many pet cannabis products on the market, finding the right CBD for cats can be challenging. To make things easier for pet owners, we have compiled a list of the best CBD for cats. We’ve reviewed each one below.
Honest Paws Well CBD Oil for Cats
Summary: Honest Paws is the number 1 pet CBD brand in the USA, and oil is the best option for cats of all ages and sizes. Plus, it is extremely palatable and easy to use – one full dropper a day will keep your cat happy and healthy. The oil is rich in different cannabinoids, flavonoids, terpenes, antioxidants, and fatty acids.
Recommended Uses: Overall Health & Wellness
Best for: Cats of all ages
Hemp Source: USA-grown organic hemp
Extraction Method: CO2 extraction
Potency Options: 125 mg
Price: $39.95
Subscription Program: Yes, with discount
- Organic full-spectrum hemp CBD
- Cat-friendly and palatable taste
- High-quality ingredients and no preservatives
- Certificate of analysis available
- COA does not include pesticides
Ingredient Analysis
- Organic Full-Spectrum Hemp Oil: Used for its various health-boosting cannabinoids.
- Organic MCT Oil: Inactive ingredient used as a carrier.
Review: We like and recommend this product as it is of premium quality and customers are happy with it. The supplement is made with organic ingredients and is third-party lab tested for quality and safety. Don’t believe us? Read a hands on review of this product from Catster.com.
What are Customers Saying about Honest Paw Well CBD Oil for Cats?
My cat was a nervous wreck and never seemed happy, we heard her purr in day three! It was amazing! She’s a totally different cat in the best way possible. Thanks, Honest Paws!
– Nikki O.
First off, my 17-year-old cat is picky and has refused to eat food with other brands of CBD oil added in. Honest Paws is practically clear, and she gobbles it up with ease. Second, I can’t believe I’m seeing improvement in her mobility (she’s taking it for arthritis) in the first week. Bonus, she is very zen. Can’t wait to see how she is doing after a month. She is getting 10 drops twice a day (4mg).
– Annie W.
Honest Paws Calm CBD Cat Treats
Summary: Coming from the number 1 pet CBD brand in the USA, the Calm CBD Treats are safe, efficient, and fit for cats of all breeds and sizes. The soft chews maintain calmness, help manage behavioral problems, and support normal cognitive function. Plus, they are chicken-flavored and extremely palatable, meaning they are easy to use.
Recommended Uses: Calmness & Relaxation
Best for: Cats of all ages
Hemp Source: USA-grown organic hemp
Extraction Method: CO2 extraction
Potency Options: 2 mg per chew
Price: $29.99
Subscription Program: Yes, with discount
- With full-spectrum hemp CBD
- Cat-friendly chicken flavor
- Help maintain calmness
- For cats of all sizes
- Available in only one potency
Ingredient Analysis
- Chamomile Flower: Supports calmness and relaxation naturally.
- Passion Flower: Also supports calmness and relaxation.
- Cannabidiol: Added for its relaxing and anti-stress properties.
- Inactive Ingredients: Carob, chicken, chicken liver, garbanzo flour, glycerin, lecithin, MCT oil, palm fruit oil, pea flour, silver vine, and sorbic acid are used to round up the nutrient profile and make the edibles.
Review: We like and recommend these calming CBD treats because they are safe and efficient. Cat owners say the Honest Paws Calm CBD Soft Chews for Cats are an “excellent product.” They describe them as “easy to use” and mention that they “work wonders.” All in all, these are the best CBD treats for cats.
The Anxious Pet Hemp Oil for Cats
Summary: The Anxious Pet Hemp Oil for cats is an excellent product – it is safe, effective, and affordable. The supplement features full-spectrum hemp oil and organic coconut oil as a carrier. It comes in a small bottle, and the dropper is conveniently marked with mL to ensure easy use.
Recommended Uses: Calmness & Relaxation; Skin Issues & Seasonal Allergies; Immune System Boosts
Best for: Cats of all ages
Hemp Source: USA-grown hemp
Extraction Method: CO2 extraction
Potency Options: 400 mg
Price: $29.00
Subscription Program: Yes, with discount
- Full-spectrum and high-quality oil
- Dropper with clear mL measurement
- Veterinarian-formulated
- 60-day money-back guarantee
- Ships FREE next business day
- Only one potency option
Ingredient Analysis
- Full-Spectrum Cannabinoid Oil: Used for its various health-boosting cannabinoids.
- Organic Fractionated Coconut Oil: Inactive ingredient used as a carrier.
Review: Pet owners are pleased with this CBD oil for cats. They say their cats like the product despite being unflavored and have an easy time giving it. Most customers are also happy with how straightforward the ordering process is and the company’s fast and free shipping.
CBDfx CBD Oil
Summary: cbdMD was envisioned by Martin Sumichrast and Scott Coffman from North Carolina. The cbdMD oil is made of top-notch ingredients carefully selected after thoroughly researching its effects. For straightforward application, the dropper is clearly marked. cbdMD offers the best CBD oil for cat owners on a budget.
Recommended Uses: Overall Health & Wellness
Best for: Cats of all ages
Hemp Source: Organic hemp
Extraction Method: Flash chromatography extraction
Potency Options: 250 mg
Price: $29.99 – $99.99
Subscription Program: No
- High-quality, broad-spectrum CBD
- From ethically sourced organic hemp plants
- Third-party lab tested
- Available at an affordable price
- Flash chromatography CBD extraction
Ingredient Analysis
- Broad-Spectrum CBD: The main ingredient and source of cannabidiol.
- Coconut-Derived MCT Oil: Used as a carrier oil.
- Natural Chicken Flavor: Added to improve palatability.
Review: CBDfx is the best broad-spectrum CBD formula for cats. It is made with selected and safe ingredients. Plus, the oil is efficient and easy to use.
Petly CBD Oil
Get it on Petly CBD
Summary: Two dog dads who strongly believed pets are equal family members took the pet CBD production to a whole new level and founded Petly CBD. Petly CBD offers a line of cat-friendly CBD products that are easy to use. The human-grade MCT oil and non-GMO formula speak volumes about the quality of the oil.
Recommended Uses: Overall Health & Wellness
Best for: Cats of all ages
Hemp Source: Organic hemp
Extraction Method: CO2 extraction
Potency Options: 125 mg
Price: $39.99
Subscription Program: Yes, with discount
- From 100% organically grown hemp
- Feline-friendly dropper
- Certificate of Analysis available
- Subscription pricing available
- Broad-spectrum hemp extract
Ingredient Analysis
- Broad-Spectrum Hemp Oil: Rich source of cannabidiol.
- Human-Grade MCT Oil: Used as a high-quality carrier oil.
Review: We like this product because it is affordable, efficient, and cats seem to accept its regular use. Plus, Petly CBD has the best subscribe and save options for CBD oils for cats.
Joy Organics CBD Oil
Summary: The Joy Organics brand is based on three concepts – compassion, integrity, and excellence. Joy Organics has two different CBD oil potencies making dosing straightforward. Plus, being completely free from THC poses zero risk of overdosing. The Joy Organics CBD oil is perfect for cat owners afraid of the THC effects.
Recommended Uses: Overall Health & Wellness
Best for: Cats of all ages
Hemp Source: Organic hemp
Extraction Method: CO2 extraction
Potency Options: 450 mg, 900 mg
Price: $44.95
Subscription Program: Yes, with discount
- High-quality full-spectrum CBD oil
- 100% THC-free
- All-natural ingredients
- Third-party lab results available
- Heftier price tag than similar products
Ingredient Analysis
- Organic Phytocannabinoid-Rich Hemp Extract: Used for the high CBD content.
- Organic Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: Added as an inactive ingredient or carrier oil.
Review: We recommend this product because it is high-quality and carefully formulated. Plus, cat owners say the Joy Organics CBD oil “works fast” and “makes a difference” for their cat’s health and wellness. All in all, Joy Organics has CBD oil for cats with the best natural ingredients.
cbdMD CBD Oil
Summary: cbdMD is dedicated to doing things differently and seeking alternative solutions to health problems. The cbdMD CBD oil is a superior quality broad-spectrum formula with added cannabinoids. Available, in natural and catnip flavor and two different potencies, the oil is practical and easy to use.
Recommended Uses: Calming & Relaxation
Best for: Cats of all ages
Hemp Source: USA-grown hemp
Extraction Method: CO2 extraction
Potency Options: 150 mg, 300 mg
Price: $24.99
Subscription Program: Yes, with discount
- Added cannabinoids (CBG, CBN)
- Vegan, gluten-free, and THC-free
- Third-party lab tested
- Cat-friendly catnip flavor
- Broad-spectrum CBD oil
Ingredient Analysis
- Proprietary Blend: Chamomile flower, lemon balm leaf, passion flower extract, and valerian root are used because of their natural calming properties.
- Proprietary Hemp Extract Blend: CBD, CBG, and CBN derived from hemp extracts.
- Melatonin: To support calmness and relaxation.
- MCT Oil: Extracted from palm kernel and used as a carrier.
Review: We recommend cbdMD oil is it is a great product and specifically formulated to support calmness and relaxation. According to customer reviews, it also “helps hospice pets.” All in all, cbdMD has the most options for CBD oils for cats.
Extract Labs CBD Oil
Summary: Extract Labs was founded by pet people and focused on providing the best for dogs and cats. The Extract Labs CBD oil is a full-spectrum hemp tincture. The CBD oil is made from American hemp using CO2 extraction. With as much as 1000 mg of CBD per bottle, Extract Labs CBD is one of the most potent pet CBD products.
Recommended Uses: Calming & Relaxation
Best for: Cats & dogs of all ages
Hemp Source: Organic hemp
Extraction Method: CO2 extraction
Potency Options: 500 mg, 1000 mg
Price: $35 – $60
Subscription Program: Yes, with discount
- Full-spectrum CBD oil formula
- Non-GMO and free from harmful ingredients
- Made with CO2 extraction
- Potent oil (17 mg of CBD per ml)
- Hard to dose in small cats
Ingredient Analysis
- Full-Spectrum Hemp Oil: Rich in different cannabinoids.
- Organic Coconut Oil: Used as a carrier in the formula.
Review: Cat owners say the Extract Labs CBD oil is a “must for anxious pets” and makes “old cats act like kittens again.” We agree with them and are pleased with the product’s quality and positive reviews. All in all, Extract Labs offers cat CBD oils with the best value.
What Health Problems can CBD Help Cats With?
CBD’s therapeutic potential is a widely researched area. However, the research is still in its early stages.
The working theory is that there are many benefits of CBD for cats and some of these benefits are proven, others are derived from studies in humans and other animals, and some are anecdotal evidence from satisfied cat owners.
At this point, we will focus on the scientifically proven benefits of CBD for cats. Here is a list of the health problems for which CBD oil can be helpful.
CBD For Cats With Cancer
Based on statistics, one in five cats will develop some type of cancer at a certain point in its life. Age and exposure to carcinogens like tobacco smoke, asbestos, pesticides, x-rays, benzene, food additives are critical risk factors.
As a promising anti-cancer drug CBD for cats can be pretty helpful. Although CBD cannot cure a cat’s cancer, it can help destroy cancerous cells and induce apoptosis without damaging healthy cells. It also has tumor-shrinking features and can inhibit angiogenesis, thus preventing tumor spread or formation of metastasis.
Additionally, CBD can help with the cancer symptoms and the side effects of conventional treatments by offering pain relief, inflammation management, nausea prevention, and normal appetite stimulation. Finally, when combined with traditional anti-cancer treatments, CBD boosts its efficacy.
CBD Oil for Cats Seizures
Seizures are among the most common neurologic disorders in cats and affect between 1-3% of the feline population. Defined as sudden episodes of uncontrolled muscle activity, seizures occur due to the misfiring of electrical impulses in the brain, which result in neuroinflammation.
Studies show that CBD for cats can help normalize the brain rhythm, thus managing electrical misfiring and acting as a neuroprotectant. Plus, it has been shown that there is a close connection between ECS, CBDs, and epilepsy. Two CBDs have proven antiepileptic properties – cannabidiol (CBD) and cannabidivarin (CBDV).
Simply put, CBD for cats can help with seizures because of its antiepileptic, anticonvulsant, and anti-inflammatory features. Since the results showed in a groundbreaking dog study, CBD is considered to be a promising anti-seizure drug. Plus, CBD for cats boosts the effects of conventional antiepileptic drugs.
CBD Oil for Cats With Kidney Disease
Kidney disease is the most common metabolic disease in cats older than 12 years of age. It occurs in two forms – acute and chronic and manifests with frequent urination, increased thirst, vomiting, pain, decreased appetite, increased susceptibility to urinary tract infections, and weight loss.
CBD for cats can help with both acute and chronic kidney problems or, better said, with several of the symptoms, including appetite loss, inflammation, chronic pain, and cat anxiety which will positively impact the cat’s quality of life.
CBD for cats anti-nausea effects, prevents cat vomiting, and acts as a potent appetite stimulant. CBD also has proven anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. Due to its anxiolytic powers, CBD for cats can ease pain-triggered stress and improve sleep. Finally, CBD can modulate the immune system, thus fighting off urinary infections.
How Much CBD Oil Should I Give My Cat?
You can give your cat between 1 and 5 mg of CBD per 10 pounds of body weight per day. Finding the right CBD amount for your cat will take some experimentation. We always recommend starting with a lower dose and gradually increasing the CBD amount as your cat gets used to the new supplement.
When using our #1 CBD from Honest Paws, since cats are all the same weight, it is always the same dosage recommendation – 1 full dropper a day, from a 125mg potency, which translates to 4mg of CBD a day.
If you happen to give your cat too much CBD oil, rest assured your pet will be fine – cats cannot overdose on CBD oil. Worst-case scenario, your cat will be extra sleepy and sleep off the effects.
Depending on why you are using CBD, you can dose your cat once or twice per day. For example, if using CBD for cats for general wellness once daily is enough. On the other hand, if giving CBD for cat anxiety management, we recommend dosing your cat twice per day.
How do I Give CBD to My Cat?
There are several ways in which you can use CBD for cats. Here is a short explanation of each:
- Sublingual application. You can use the dropper to squirt the CBD for cats tincture directly into your cat’s mouth or under the tongue. This method ensures fast results but can be hard on picky eaters and uncooperative cats.
- Mixed with the cat food. It is more practical to drop the CBD dose into the cat’s food. That way, the food will cover the oil’s earthy scent and bitter taste, making it more acceptable for cats.
- Baked into treats. You can bake cat-friendly CBD treats at home using high-quality CBD oil. However, keep in mind that high temperatures can deactivate cannabinoids. Plus, it can be hard to determine the right CBD amount per treat.
What are the Side Effects of CBD Oil in Cats?
Although generally safe, in some extra sensitive cats adding CBD to the healthcare regimen may result in side effects. The good news is that the potential side effects are rare, benign, and usually resolve after a few days of CBD use.
Below is a review of the side effects of CBD for cats:
- Dry Mouth. CBD for cats can inhibit the normal production of saliva, resulting in increased thirst and water intake in cats. The increased water consumption is followed by more frequent visits to the litter box. To manage this issue, make sure your cat always has access to fresh drinking water.
- Lip Licking. The unusual sensation of a dry mouth makes some cats more likely to lick their lips more frequently and excessively. Once again, access to fresh water is all it takes to deal with this adverse effect.
- Diarrhea. Adding a new supplement to the menu will likely result in diarrhea in cats. In the case of CBD, the diarrhea is usually a result of the product’s carrier oil (usually coconut oil) and not the actual cannabinoids. To prevent cat diarrhea implement the CBD for cats gradually or serve it during mealtime on a full stomach.
- Low Blood Pressure. The calming effect of CBD for cats can also cause a sudden but temporary drop in the heart rate and blood pressure for cats, causing light-headedness. Some cats may also exhibit decreased paw-to-eye coordination and mild head-shaking. If your cat is extra sleepy, let it snooze off the CBD effects.
- Liver Enzymes Inhibition. CBD for cats can affect the production of liver enzymes which results in a delayed breakdown of certain prescription medications. To be more accurate, CBD can either inhibit or boost the effects of these meds.
Most of these CBD side effects subside after a while or with a simple dosage modification. If you have already decreased the CBD dose and there are still adverse reactions, talk to your trusted veterinarian.
In fact, we recommend consulting with your vet before giving your cat CBD oil in the first place. This is because of CBD’s potential to interact with certain medications. If the veterinarian approves, you can safely start supplementing your cat.
Can a Cat Overdose on CBD Oil?
No, it is highly unlikely that a cat will overdose on CBD oil. High-quality CBD for cats is safe and cannot cause intoxication. Worst-case scenario, your cat will experience a digestive upset or feel drowsy and sleep off the effects.
How do I Choose CBD for My Cat?
It is important to give your cat a CBD product of high quality and made exclusively for pets. Here is a list of the things you should consider when buying CBD for cats:
- Full Spectrum. The right CBD for cats is full-spectrum CBD oil because it contains a more versatile cannabinoid profile than broad-spectrum CBD oil. Full-spectrum hemp also includes additional compounds like terpenes and flavonoids, which act synergistically and boost the CBD’s effects.
- Hemp Source. The ideal CBD for cats must be made from organic hemp. This is because commercially grown hemp is heavily treated with pesticides and can draw contaminants from the soil. Organic farming practices will ensure a high-quality product. For maximum purity, CBD oil needs to be derived using the CO2 extraction method.
- Types of Extracts. It is important to differentiate between hemp oil and hemp seed oil. Hemp oil or hemp CBD oil is a whole plant extract made from the leaves, flowers, and stalks and is rich in different cannabinoids. On the other hand, the hemp seed oil is extracted solely from hemp seeds. It is an excellent source of omega fatty acids, but it does not contain cannabinoids.
- Third-Party Lab Testing. A reputable brand will have its CBD supplements tested by a third-party lab. The third-party lab test results are presented in a document called Certificate of Analysis (COA). The COA shows a full breakdown of the product’s chemical profile – types and amount of cannabinoids. It will also confirm that the CBD for cats is free from contaminants such as heavy metals, additives, contaminants, and microbes.
- Brand Transparency: The first sign indicating the brand’s transparency is the COA availability on the official website. Additionally, a transparent brand shares reviews and success stories from satisfied pet owners. Finally, a transparent brand confident in the quality of its CBD for cats supplements will have a money-back guarantee policy.