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    Home / Articles / CBD Oil for Cats – Benefits, Choosing the Right Product, Dosage and Studies

    CBD Oil for Cats – Benefits, Choosing the Right Product, Dosage and Studies

    Article author: Lucie Garabas

    CBD affects cats in a similar way to other mammals. CBD is most commonly used in cats to reduce stress and anxiety, relieve pain and support animals experiencing epileptic seizures. In this article, you will find the following information:

    What problems may CBD help cats with?

    Cat owners most frequently contact us regarding the following problems:

    Article summary:

    • CBD may support cats experiencing epilepsy, anxiety, chronic pain, arthritis, cancer and other health problems. It is a natural product that is generally associated with relatively few side effects.
    • Cats have an endocannabinoid system just like humans and dogs, but their metabolism is considerably different. CBD appears to be absorbed much more effectively in cats when administered after food.
    • When giving CBD to a cat, always choose a product that does not contain THC, as THC can be toxic to cats. Consult a veterinarian before combining CBD with medication.

    Uses of CBD for cats:

    1. Cancer

    If your cat is undergoing cancer treatment, CBD will not cure the disease, but it may help improve their everyday comfort and quality of life. Chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery can all be demanding for an animal, and CBD may serve as a natural form of supportive care. It may help manage some of the side effects associated with treatment and reduce discomfort.

    More specifically, CBD may provide the following forms of support during cancer treatment:

    • reduced inflammation
    • relief from bone pain
    • better digestion
    • relief from nausea
    • overall pain reduction
    • calming effects and reduced stress
    • relaxation for restless cats
    • support for symptoms associated with low mood

    Research also suggests that CBD may affect cancer cells directly. A 2011 study from Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston found that CBD induced programmed cell death in breast cancer cells. In the same year, another study indicated that CBD reduced the ability of tumour cells to spread to other parts of the body. Researchers have also investigated whether CBD can interfere with angiogenesis – the process through which a tumour develops its own blood vessels and secures a supply of nutrients.

    Important: CBD is not a treatment for cancer. It is a supportive product that may help a cat feel more comfortable and cope better with demanding veterinary treatment.

    2. Epilepsy

    Epileptic seizures can be extremely stressful for both a cat and their owner. CBD is one of the most extensively researched natural compounds in this field, and the results obtained so far are encouraging.

    A completed pilot clinical study led by Dr Stephanie McGrath at Colorado State University and involving 16 dogs found that 89% of the dogs receiving CBD experienced a reduction in seizure frequency (McGrath et al., 2019). These findings have encouraged further research into CBD as a potential complement to conventional anti-seizure medication in animals.

    Why might CBD help with epilepsy? Seizures occur when excessive and disorganised electrical activity develops in the brain. CBD may help regulate this activity by affecting neuronal ion channels – the pathways through which brain cells transmit signals. This may naturally reduce the likelihood or intensity of a seizure.

    Studies involving people with severe epilepsy, including Dravet syndrome, have also demonstrated the clinical effectiveness of CBD in reducing seizures, encouraging further investigation in animals.

    A pharmacokinetic study conducted directly in cats in 2023 found that a dose of 5 mg/kg may produce plasma CBD concentrations that could be relevant for therapeutic applications in epilepsy (Jukier et al., 2023). This represents one of the most promising areas of current research into CBD for cats.

    CBD may therefore have considerable potential as a natural anticonvulsant for cats with epilepsy – a substance that helps reduce or prevent convulsions and epileptic seizures.

    3. Inflammation and arthritis

    Have you noticed that your cat finds it harder to jump, hesitates before using the stairs or moves around less than usual? These may be signs of arthritis – a joint condition that particularly affects older cats and is associated with chronic pain and inflammation.

    CBD may offer support in two ways: by reducing pain and helping regulate inflammation. One of the mechanisms involved is its effect on vanilloid receptors, which participate in the transmission and perception of pain. When the activity of these receptors is modified, a cat may perceive discomfort less intensely.

    CBD also interacts with the endocannabinoid system, which is involved in the body’s natural inflammatory responses. As a result, CBD may help regulate inflammation not only in the joints, but also in areas such as the intestines, stomach or brain.

    Research supports further investigation in this area. A study on rodents published in 2000 found that CBD slowed the progression of arthritis and helped protect joints from damage. In 2023, the first case report describing the successful use of CBD for chronic osteoarthritis pain in a cat was published.

    4. Chronic pain

    Cats are masters at hiding pain, which means owners may not realise for a long time that their pet is suffering. Signs of chronic pain can include changes in behaviour, reduced activity, avoiding touch or changes in the way the cat walks.

    CBD may help relieve both physical and neuropathic pain – pain caused by damage to the nerves. This can be particularly valuable for cats with arthritis or other joint problems, as conventional pain medication is not always a suitable option. A cat’s liver processes medication differently from the liver of a dog or a human, and many commonly used painkillers are toxic to cats. CBD may represent a gentler supportive option, but its use should always be discussed with a veterinarian, particularly when the cat is taking other medication.

    5. Diabetes

    Diabetes in cats is often associated with inflammatory processes, which is why CBD is being investigated for its potential supportive role. A study published in a scientific journal confirmed that the endocannabinoid system plays an important role in inflammatory processes associated with the development of diabetes and its complications. Additional research in mice has suggested that CBD may reduce the risk of developing diabetes and improve blood circulation in diabetic animals. These results remain preliminary, but they are encouraging.

    6. Panic, anxiety and separation stress

    Cats are sensitive animals, and stress can affect them more profoundly than many people realise. Moving home, visiting a veterinarian, introducing a new animal or simply being separated from their owner for longer than usual can cause considerable distress. The signs of anxiety are not always obvious and may include excessive vocalisation, destructive behaviour, loss of appetite or, conversely, unusually clingy behaviour.

    CBD may support emotional balance by temporarily influencing serotonin signalling in the cat’s brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter involved in mood and feelings of wellbeing.

    Research in this area is developing rapidly. A study published in the journal Heliyon in February 2024 was the first to demonstrate directly that cats given CBD showed significantly fewer signs of stress when separated from their caregiver. Another study published in the same year found that CBD reduced stress-related responses in cats during travel and contact with unfamiliar people – situations that many cats find difficult.

    How does CBD actually work in cats?

    CBD is short for cannabidiol, a natural compound obtained from the cannabis plant. It is one of more than 110 compounds known as cannabinoids that occur in cannabis. Importantly, CBD is not psychoactive, which means it does not make a cat feel high or alter their consciousness. The intoxicating effects of cannabis are caused by another substance – THC. This distinction is essential because, while people may tolerate trace amounts of THC, THC can be toxic to cats. You should therefore always choose THC-free products or products with a certified, negligible THC content. The safest choice is a veterinary product that complies with the applicable European and national requirements. 

    CBD works in the body through the endocannabinoid system – a natural regulatory system found in all mammals, including cats. We will explain this in more detail in the following section.

    Interesting fact: cannabis has been used in traditional herbal practices for almost 1,000 years. Today, veterinarians and researchers are studying how its active compounds may support animals, and the findings are becoming increasingly promising.

    The feline endocannabinoid system

    For CBD to have an effect in a cat’s body, it needs “docking points”. These are the receptors of the endocannabinoid system. All mammals have this system, and in cats it functions in a similar way to the human endocannabinoid system, although cats may be more sensitive to certain substances.

    You can think of the endocannabinoid system as the body’s internal regulatory network. It helps maintain balance in many processes, from mood and digestion to the perception of pain. In cats, it is involved in regulating:

    • balance and coordination
    • muscle movement
    • reproductive functions
    • appetite
    • the digestive tract
    • memory
    • heart rate and blood pressure
    • the perception of pain and pleasure
    • mood and emotional stability
    • brain development

    The system works through substances naturally produced by the body, known as endocannabinoids, which activate cannabinoid receptors. Plant-derived cannabinoids such as CBD interact with this system and may help the body maintain or restore balance when a particular function has been disrupted.

    What are cannabinoid receptors?

    Cannabinoid receptors are essentially “receivers” located on the surface of cells. They detect signals from their surroundings and transmit them into the cell, which then responds accordingly. There are two main types:

    1. CB1 receptors

    CB1 receptors are found primarily in the brain and spinal cord. They are involved in memory, mood, appetite and the perception of pain. They play an important role in the overall functioning of a cat’s nervous system and are one of the pathways through which cannabinoids may influence anxiety, pain and seizure activity.

    2. CB2 receptors

    CB2 receptors are found mainly in the immune system. Through its interaction with the endocannabinoid system, CBD may support the body’s natural inflammatory responses. This is one of the reasons it is being studied in connection with arthritis, inflammation and immune-system function.

    Does CBD make cats high?

    No. CBD itself is not psychoactive, so it does not alter a cat’s perception or consciousness. It does not act like an intoxicating drug and will not make a cat high.

    Within Europe, the legal status, classification and permitted use of CBD products for animals may vary according to the product and the rules applicable in each country. Always choose a veterinary product that complies with relevant European and national requirements and provides transparent information about its composition and THC content.

    Which CBD oil should you choose for cats?

    One key rule applies when choosing a product: select an oil that does not contain THC. Broad-spectrum oils can be a suitable option because they contain a wider range of beneficial cannabinoids, including CBD, while excluding THC.

    Most products are supplied in a bottle with a dropper, allowing the dose to be measured very precisely, down to a single drop of approximately 0.04 ml. This is particularly useful when you are first introducing CBD and determining the most suitable amount for your cat.

    How should the oil be administered? The most direct method is to place it in the cat’s mouth, allowing the product to come into contact with the oral mucosa. If the cat refuses this method, you can mix the oil into a small amount of their favourite food.

    An important recent finding should also be taken into account: a 2023 study found that the bioavailability of CBD in cats was up to 11 times higher when it was administered after food rather than on an empty stomach. In other words, a cat may absorb considerably more CBD from the same dose when it is given shortly after a meal. For this reason, CBD should preferably be administered after feeding.

    .

    Side effects of CBD in cats

    One of the main advantages of CBD is that it is generally associated with relatively few side effects, which is one reason it has become popular as a natural supportive option.

    Nevertheless, some cats may experience the following effects, particularly when higher doses are administered:

    • increased tiredness
    • drowsiness
    • reduced coordination
    • increased thirst and dry mouth
    • diarrhoea
    • temporary increases in liver enzymes – these have been observed at higher doses. However, a six-month safety study conducted by the Waltham Petcare Science Institute in 2024 and involving 39 healthy cats found that CBD was generally well tolerated during long-term administration at the studied doses

    If any of these symptoms occur, reduce the dose and consult a veterinarian. CBD can also affect the way certain medicines are processed by the liver, so veterinary advice is particularly important when a cat is already receiving medication.

    CBD oil dosage for cats

    There is no single universal CBD dosage. The appropriate amount depends on the cat’s weight, age, health, individual sensitivity and the reason the product is being used. The general rule is therefore: start with a small amount and increase it gradually.

    Based on our long-term experience, a possible starting point is: 1 drop of 2% CBD oil per 1 kg of body weight per day.

    Although severe CBD toxicity appears to be uncommon, it is still important to increase the amount gradually and monitor the cat carefully. The aim is to find the lowest effective dose that provides the desired benefits without causing unwanted effects.

    If you are unsure, contact our specialists or read our more detailed article: How should CBD products for animals be dosed?

    An alternative option is CBD drops intended for people. However, always check the complete composition and consult a veterinarian before giving a human product to an animal.

    Studies on CBD administration in cats

    Research into CBD for cats has long lagged behind research involving dogs and humans. Many earlier studies focused primarily on the harmful effects of THC rather than the potential benefits of CBD. In recent years, however, the situation has begun to change and the number of high-quality studies has increased.

    The authors of a 2013 study from a veterinary hospital in Denver confirmed that THC can be dangerous to cats and dogs. Even relatively small amounts may cause serious problems, and deaths have been reported following the ingestion of highly concentrated THC extracts. This is one of the main reasons why cat owners should insist on THC-free CBD products.

    ElleVet was among the first companies to conduct a long-term clinical and pharmacological study of hemp products directly in cats. The researchers reported an interesting finding: when used in connection with anxiety, cats appeared to respond to CBD differently from dogs. Reduced arthritis-related pain was observed in both species. One important difference was that CBD concentrations in the feline body fell by half within approximately two hours. Cats may therefore process CBD more quickly than dogs of a similar size and may require a different dosing frequency. Any adjustment should be made in consultation with a veterinarian.

    Latest studies from 2023–2024

    Several new and practically important findings were published during this period:

    • Bioavailability after food (2023): A study published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science found that CBD administered after feeding had up to 11 times greater bioavailability in cats than CBD given on an empty stomach. The practical conclusion is to administer CBD after food.
    • Long-term safety (2024): A six-month study conducted by the Waltham Petcare Science Institute and involving 39 healthy cats found that the animals generally tolerated daily CBD administration at the studied doses.
    • Separation-related stress (2024): A study published in Heliyon was the first to demonstrate an anxiolytic effect of CBD directly in cats. Cats given CBD showed significantly fewer signs of stress when separated from their caregiver.
    • Travel-related stress (2024): Another study found that a single dose of CBD reduced certain stress-related behaviours in cats during transport and interactions with unfamiliar people.

    Overview of the scientific studies referenced:

    Customer questions and answers about CBD for cats

    Question – CBD dosage for cats: Hello. I would like to purchase CBD oil for my cats. Could you please advise me which one to choose? Two of them are adults and weigh approximately 5–6 kg. The third is 10 months old and weighs around 3.5 kg. Thank you very much and have a lovely day.

    Answer – CBD dosage for cats: Hello, what would you like to use the CBD oil for? Are you looking for general support or are you dealing with a specific health problem? For general wellbeing, a 2% CBD oil may be sufficient, starting with 1–2 drops twice a day. In the case of a specific health problem, please contact us with more detailed information so that we can help you choose the most suitable product. We also recommend discussing the use of CBD with your veterinarian.

    Question – epilepsy in a cat and CBD: I would like to try CBD drops for my cat. She experiences epileptic seizures caused by inflammation in the brain, although the underlying cause could not be identified despite extensive examinations and cerebrospinal fluid testing. She is a Maine Coon kitten. At the moment, she is unfortunately receiving corticosteroids, antibiotics and anti-epileptic medication. Last week, she developed another inflammation somewhere in her body and experienced five seizures within three hours. I would like to add CBD drops and, if possible, gradually reduce the corticosteroids under veterinary supervision. Thank you very much for your time and help.

    Answer – epilepsy in a cat and CBD: Hello, thank you for your message. For your cat, we would suggest discussing a 2% CBD oil with your veterinarian. A cautious starting amount could be 1 drop twice a day. After five days, and only if the oil is well tolerated, the amount could potentially be increased to 2 drops twice a day. Because your cat is already receiving several medicines, CBD should only be introduced with the approval and supervision of the treating veterinarian. Corticosteroids and anti-epileptic medication must not be reduced or discontinued without veterinary guidance.

    Question – supporting a cat’s emotional wellbeing: Hello, I would like to order CBD drops for my male cat. He is a three-year-old breeding cat and I would like to help him feel calmer. He eats very little and is primarily interested in mating. When he is separated from female cats in heat, he becomes very distressed. Could you please advise me which strength of oil to choose and possibly send me a link? Thank you very much.

    Answer – supporting a cat’s emotional wellbeing: Hello, we would suggest considering a 2% CBD oil for animals. A cautious starting point may be 2 drops once a day. If no improvement is observed during the first few days and the product is well tolerated, the amount could potentially be increased to 2 drops twice a day. We also recommend consulting a veterinarian to rule out any underlying health or behavioural issues.

    Question – CBD for a cat after surgery: Hello, I have a one-year-old male cat weighing 3.5 kg who has undergone knee surgery. I would like to ask whether I can give him the 10% CBD drops that I use for my dog.

    Answer – CBD for a cat after surgery: Hello, we would not recommend using a high-strength product intended for another animal without first discussing it with your veterinarian. A lower-strength veterinary CBD oil, such as a 2% or 5% product, generally allows more precise dosing for a small cat. The appropriate amount will depend on the cat’s condition, current medication and the recommendation of the treating veterinarian.

    Question – difference between drops for dogs and cats: Hello, I would like to ask whether the composition of the drops is the same for cats and dogs. Which concentration would you recommend for an 11 kg male cat and a 30 kg dog? Does the composition change depending on the diagnosis? Thank you very much.

    Answer – difference between drops for dogs and cats: Hello, the most important factor is that the product is suitable for veterinary use and does not contain THC. The basic composition does not necessarily differ between products for dogs and cats, but the appropriate concentration and dosage depend on the animal’s weight, individual sensitivity, health condition and the intended purpose. For an 11 kg cat, a 5% CBD oil may allow practical dosing, while a 10% product may be considered for a 30 kg dog. However, the exact amount should always be determined individually and preferably discussed with a veterinarian.

    Question – drops for an aggressive male cat: Good evening, I was advised to contact you regarding CBD drops for my male cat, who sometimes becomes aggressive towards a newly introduced male cat. Could you recommend one of your calming products? Thank you and kind regards.

    Answer – drops for an aggressive male cat: Hello, you could consider a 5% CBD oil for animals, but aggression between cats should also be addressed through gradual introduction, environmental management and, where appropriate, consultation with a veterinarian or feline behaviour specialist. CBD dosage is highly individual. A cautious amount should be introduced gradually while the cat’s response is monitored.

    Question – atopic eczema in a male cat: Hello, I would like to purchase CBD oil for my three-year-old male cat, who has atopic eczema and is probably sensitive to dust. His skin is itchy and subsequently becomes irritated. Which concentration of oil would be more suitable in this case? Thank you very much.

    Answer – atopic eczema in a male cat: Hello, we would first need to know how much your cat weighs. In general, a 2% CBD oil for animals may provide a suitable starting point because it allows precise dosing. We would also recommend veterinary assessment to identify the trigger and determine the appropriate skin treatment. Only grooming products specifically suitable for cats should be used, as cats are particularly sensitive to many ingredients commonly found in shampoos and essential oils.

    Question – arthritis in a cat: Hello, my cat is 15 years old. According to the veterinarian, she probably has arthritis in her hind legs. She has stopped walking and eating, apparently because of the pain. An injection helps for a few weeks, but then the problem returns. Her blood results are normal. Which oil and dosage would you recommend? Thank you very much.

    Answer – arthritis in a cat: Hello, thank you for your question. A 5% CBD oil for animals may be considered as supportive care, but a cat that has stopped walking and eating requires prompt veterinary attention. The veterinarian should determine whether the pain treatment needs to be adjusted and whether there are any other underlying problems. Physiotherapy may also be beneficial for joint conditions, provided it is recommended by a qualified veterinary professional.

    Question – CBD for a cat with a psychological problem: Hello, our female cat recently had her teeth extracted. Although she is now healthy and her mouth has healed well, she still refuses to eat. The veterinarian believes that, because she lived with severe dental pain for a long time, she may still associate eating with pain even though the source of the pain has been removed. Could CBD help? Do you have experience with this? Thank you.

    Answer – CBD for a cat with a psychological problem: Hello, CBD may potentially support both comfort and emotional wellbeing, but a cat that refuses food should remain under close veterinary supervision. Cats can develop serious complications if they do not eat for an extended period. A 2% or 5% CBD oil for animals could be discussed with the veterinarian, but it should not replace further examination or nutritional support.

    Question – a male cat and moving home: Hello, I have a male cat who becomes extremely stressed, and it has already affected his health. We are going to move home and I would like to help him stay calmer. What dosage would you recommend? He is a mixed-breed cat weighing 5 kg. Thank you.

    Answer – a male cat and moving home: Hello, a 2% CBD oil may be considered, starting with a low amount such as 1–2 drops once or twice a day. It is best to introduce the product several days before the move so that you can observe the cat’s response. Alongside CBD, provide familiar bedding, hiding places, pheromone support and a quiet room in the new home. If your cat has previously developed stress-related health problems, consult your veterinarian before the move.

    Question – travelling with a cat and CBD: Hello, we are planning a long car journey with our eight-year-old cat. She does not tolerate travelling well and becomes very stressed. Which product would you recommend and how should it be dosed?

    Answer – travelling with a cat and CBD: Hello, you could consider a 2% or 5% CBD oil for animals. It is preferable to test a small amount at home before the day of travel so that you can observe the cat’s response. The product may be introduced gradually and administered before the journey according to the veterinarian’s recommendation. A secure carrier, familiar blanket, calm environment and regular breaks can also help. If your cat experiences severe travel sickness or anxiety, ask your veterinarian about additional treatment options.

    Would you like to contribute to the discussion? Email us at info@cannadorra.com