Introduction
Watching a beloved pet experience a seizure can be one of the most distressing experiences for any pet owner. Epilepsy and seizure disorders are more common in dogs (and occasionally in cats) than many people realize, and while conventional treatments exist, they don’t always work effectively — or without side effects. In recent years, CBD (cannabidiol) has gained attention as a natural, potentially effective option for managing seizures in pets. But how reliable is it? And is it safe?
In this blog, we’ll explore what science says about CBD for pet seizures and whether it could be a helpful addition to your pet’s wellness routine.
Understanding Seizures in Pets
Seizures in pets are caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. They can be triggered by epilepsy (a chronic neurological disorder), head trauma, toxins, liver disease, or even genetic conditions. Symptoms vary but often include:
- Convulsions
- Drooling
- Temporary loss of consciousness
- Twitching or jerking movements
- Unusual behavior before or after the episode
Traditional medications like phenobarbital and potassium bromide are commonly prescribed, but they can come with side effects like drowsiness, increased thirst, liver damage, or poor coordination.
How CBD May Help
CBD (cannabidiol) is a non-psychoactive compound derived from hemp, meaning it doesn’t cause a “high” like THC. What makes CBD especially promising for medical use is how it interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS)—a vast network of receptors found throughout the brain and body. The ECS plays a vital role in maintaining internal balance, helping to regulate key functions such as mood, pain perception, immune response, inflammation, and neurological activity.
When it comes to seizures and epilepsy, CBD’s therapeutic potential is particularly noteworthy. Researchers believe that CBD has both neuroprotective and anticonvulsant properties. This means it may help stabilize overexcited neurons, which are often responsible for triggering seizures, and prevent damage to brain cells caused by repeated or prolonged seizure activity.
Studies in both humans and animals suggest that CBD can reduce the frequency, severity, and duration of seizures, particularly in treatment-resistant epilepsy. This has led to the development of FDA-approved medications like Epidiolex, which uses purified CBD to treat specific childhood epilepsy syndromes such as Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome.
In pets, the mechanisms are believed to be similar. CBD may help “calm” the nervous system, reduce inflammatory responses that contribute to seizure activity, and improve the animal’s overall neurological stability. While more research is still needed, growing anecdotal evidence and early studies show promise in using CBD as a supportive treatment for managing seizures and improving quality of life in pets with epilepsy.
What the Research Says
While research is still developing, early studies are promising:
- A 2019 Colorado State University study showed that 89% of dogs who received CBD had a reduction in seizure frequency.
- Another clinical trial published in the journal Pet Behaviour Science found CBD to be well-tolerated and potentially effective as part of a seizure treatment plan.
- In humans, the FDA has approved a CBD-based drug, Epidiolex, for treatment-resistant epilepsy — indicating strong potential for similar effects in pets.
However, veterinary research is still limited compared to human trials, so more data is needed to fully understand optimal dosing and long-term safety.
Choosing the Right CBD for Pets
If you’re considering CBD for your pet’s seizures, keep these tips in mind:
- Use Pet-Specific Products: Always choose CBD products formulated specifically for animals — human CBD oils may contain ingredients like xylitol or essential oils that are toxic to pets.
- Look for Full-Spectrum or Broad-Spectrum CBD: These contain beneficial cannabinoids and terpenes that may work synergistically for better effects.
- Check for Third-Party Lab Testing: Ensure the product is free from THC, pesticides, heavy metals, and contaminants.
- Consult Your Veterinarian: Always speak with your vet before introducing CBD, especially if your pet is already on medication.
Dosage Guidelines
When it comes to giving CBD to pets, there’s no universal dosage that works for every animal. Factors like your pet’s weight, age, health condition, metabolism, and the severity of their seizures all play a role in how much CBD they may need.
A commonly recommended starting point is 0.2 mg of CBD per pound of body weight, administered twice daily. For example, a 25-pound dog would start with around 5 mg of CBD in the morning and 5 mg in the evening. This gentle approach helps minimize the risk of side effects while giving your pet’s body time to adjust.
Once you begin CBD supplementation, it’s essential to closely monitor your pet’s behavior and symptoms. Look for improvements in seizure frequency, severity, or any noticeable changes in mood and activity levels. If you don’t see desired results after a week or two, you can gradually increase the dosage in small increments — ideally under the guidance of a veterinarian experienced in CBD use.
Consistency is key. Unlike fast-acting medications, CBD often works best when given regularly over time. Some pets may show improvement within days, while others might take several weeks to experience noticeable benefits. Keeping a log of dosage and symptoms can help track progress and fine-tune the regimen for optimal results.
Are There Any Side Effects?
CBD is generally well-tolerated in pets, but some animals may experience:
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Lowered blood pressure
- Gastrointestinal upset
Starting with a low dose and gradually increasing helps reduce the risk of side effects.
Also Read: How CBD Treats for Pets Can Improve Their Overall Well-Being
Conclusion
CBD is showing great promise as a natural tool in managing seizures and epilepsy in pets. While it’s not a cure-all, it may offer a safer, gentler alternative or complement to traditional medications — especially for pets who don’t respond well to standard treatments.
As the research grows and more veterinarians become familiar with CBD’s benefits, it may soon become a mainstream option for supporting neurological health in dogs and cats.
Always consult with your vet before making any changes to your pet’s health routine. With the right guidance, CBD could bring comfort, stability, and a better quality of life to pets struggling with seizures.