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cutshawsnidowoa · 4 years

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Gardening With Cats: How to Create a Pet-Friendly Garden

The post Gardening With Cats: How to Create a Pet-Friendly Garden by Sassafras Lowrey appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

In this time of social distancing, many of us are revisiting our enjoyment of simple things like gardening. Even if you don’t have a large yard it’s possible to grow window gardens, but unfortunately, a number of plants commonly available are very dangerous to our cats. Only select plants that will be safe if your cat takes a little nibble. Here’s how to create a cat-friendly backyard garden or window box garden.

Why do cats like plants?

It is no secret that many cats are attracted to plants which can cause health concerns if they are eaten. Dr. Tina Wismer, DVM, MS, DABVT, DABT Senior Director of the Animal Poison Control Center at the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center says to “Make sure to keep all plants out of paws’ reach.

Related: Why Do Cats Like Catnip?

Cats are good climbers, so it’s best to move plants to a safe place they cannot access. “You know your cats best and what shelves or window sills they are able to access and where is safe to have plants.” Dr. Wismer says, adding that cat owners should think not just about plants they are growing, but also the flowers, as many flowers can also be dangerous to cats.

These plants are dangerous for cats

Unfortunately, a lot of plants are toxic to cats, and a cat’s natural curiosity can get them into trouble, as they are likely to ingest plants and flowers brought into the home. Here are few common plants, Dr. Wismer advises gardeners to be especially careful about around your cat:

“Lilies: Cats are most at risk when it comes to ingesting true lily plants, and the symptoms are serious. Ingesting both types of true lily plants (Lilium and Hemerocallis) can result in severe kidney issues and even death for cats, so make sure to be mindful when planning your garden. Additionally, other plants that can pose serious threats to your pet’s health are cycad palms. They can cause liver failure if ingested.

Tulips, hyacinths and other bulb plants are considered toxic to cats and can cause vomiting, diarrhea and drooling if ingested. All parts of these plants contain toxic components. However, the bulbs are especially concentrated — making it the most dangerous part.

Daffodil is another toxic spring plant to keep an eye out for. The Daffodil bulb is especially toxic, and can cause depression, hypotension and even seizures in cats in addition to the gastrointestinal problems.”

Related: Plants and Foods that are Poisonous to Cats

Photo: ablokhin/ Getty Images

Grow these safe plants in your cat-friendly garden

Although a number of plants are dangerous for cats there are some safe options. Dr. Wismer says good options include:

African violets

Petunias

Gerber daisy

Bromeliads

Orchids

Snapdragons

Polka dot plant

Maranta

Peperomia

Related: Let’s Talk Non-Toxic Plants for Cats — What Plants Can Your Cat Eat?

Your cat won’t be able to resist these plants

If you’re looking to add some enrichment and variety into your cat’s day you could use “cat grass,” or catnip to create a cat-focused window garden. They’re both sold either as seeds or as started plants in gardening centers and pet stores. But while cat grass is safe to give to cats, Dr. Wismer points out that “eating almost any plant or flower can cause gastrointestinal upset in pets.”

If you create a grass-filled kitty window garden, monitor your cat to make sure she isn’t making herself sick by eating the grass.

Do your research before starting your pet-friendly garden

If you are going to be planting a garden it’s important to do your research before purchasing any plants and seeds.

“It is in a pet owner’s best interest to research the plant they are looking to purchase whether it is for indoor or outdoor use. It is best to familiarize yourself with the list of toxic plants and keep these types of plants out of your home or garden for the health and safety of your pet,” Dr. Wismer advises.

She suggests that if you are going to have any toxic plants in your home garden that you need to create a physical barrier to keep your cat away, as other deterrents aren’t necessarily going to be effective and “with some plants, a single exposure could be life-threatening.”

Top photograph: Alexa-photo/Getty Images

Want more information on creating a cat-friendly garden? To support cat guardians with their gardening plans, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center has posted comprehensive lists here and here.

from Catster https://www.catster.com/lifestyle/gardening-with-cats-how-to-create-a-pet-friendly-garden via IFTTT

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petsupplyandmore · 5 years

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Antifreeze Poisoning in Canines — What You Have to Know

Antifreeze is an additive put right into a car’s engine cooling system to decrease the water’s freezing level to cut back the chance of the car’s cooling system freezing. It’s also used to boost the boiling level of the engine coolant to stop overheating. Antifreeze is sweet for automobiles — however harmful to canine. Right here’s what to learn about antifreeze poisoning in canine.

Antifreeze Poisoning in Canines — Why Does It Occur?

Sadly, canine are drawn to antifreeze. Pictures ©damedeeso | Getty Pictures.

One of many largest issues about antifreeze is that canine are sometimes drawn to it. Embrace Pet Insurance coverage Claims Supervisor Rachel Hinder explains that canine are drawn to the sweetness within the chemical substances. Antifreeze is odorless and the primary downside is the poisonous energetic ingredient ethylene glycol. Hold antifreeze away out of your canine in any respect prices.

It’s extraordinarily essential to maintain canine away from antifreeze however what must you do in the event you suppose your canine bought into antifreeze?

Signs of Antifreeze Poisoning in Canines

Sadly, antifreeze poisoning is quick and severe. “Inside 30 minutes of ingestion, canine are torpid, uncoordinated, hypothermic, can vomit, urinate excessively and drink excessively,” Rachel explains.

“Twelve to 24 hours after ingestion, signs usually seem to enhance, though this doesn’t imply the canine is just not at risk,” Rachel explains. “Throughout this time, dehydration and kidney harm progress.”

That is when circumstances for canine can get very important. “Thirty-six to 72 hours after ingestion, the kidneys shut down, which may trigger belly ache, incapacity to provide urine, melancholy, lethargy, seizures, coma and finally can result in dying,” Rachel says.

Diagnosing Antifreeze Poisoning in Canines

Search veterinary care instantly in the event you even suspect antifreeze poisoning in canine.

Laura Stern, DVM, DABVT, and Director of Consumer Applications at ASPCA Animal Poison Management Heart advises, “You’ll additionally wish to make sure you carry with you the packaging from the antifreeze, so the veterinarian can decide the perfect type of remedy based mostly on the quantity ingested and the elements listed within the product.”

On the clinic or hospital, the veterinarian will consider your canine, and run blood assessments to find out in case your canine was uncovered to sufficient antifreeze to compromise his well being and work with you to create a remedy plan.

Treating Antifreeze Poisoning in Canines

Dr. Stern explains that the precedence with treating antifreeze poisoning in canine is to stop the canine’s physique from metabolizing the ethylene glycol. In case your canine is taken to the vet throughout the first one to 2 hours of antifreeze publicity, your vet will most likely try to induce vomiting.

Hinder explains that a canine will even doubtless obtain IV fluids to assist flush the physique and keep hydration standing. In some circumstances, veterinarians are additionally capable of give canine uncovered to antifreeze drugs which will assist counteract the consequences of ethylene glycol.

Prognosis of Antifreeze Poisoning in Canines

The prognosis for antifreeze poisoning in canine actually depends upon how shortly a canine receives veterinary care, and the way a lot antifreeze was consumed. “Ingestion of antifreeze containing ethylene glycol will be deadly if not handled instantly,” cautions Dr. Stern.

Since ethylene glycol acts so quick, lots of harm will be carried out in a short time after a canine will get into antifreeze.

“The least quantity ingested, handled as quickly as attainable, could have the perfect prognosis,” advises Rachel. Breaking this down even additional, Dr. Stern explains that “prognosis for canine that obtain immediate, aggressive remedy is truthful. Prognosis is grave for canine that begin remedy after they’re already in kidney failure.”

Antifreeze Poisoning for Canines — What Canines Are Most at Danger?

Whereas antifreeze is extraordinarily harmful to all canine, Rachel explains that any canine who already has a decreased kidney operate can be at an awesome threat of issues from ethylene glycol toxicity.

Additionally take particular care with inquisitive, harmful and younger puppies who usually tend to be curious and discover areas the place they might come into contact with antifreeze. “Even a small quantity will be deadly, so any publicity warrants a name to your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Management Heart,” advises Dr. Stern.

How Can You Keep away from Antifreeze Poisoning in Canines?

For many people, having antifreeze available is a truth of life, however there are precautions we are able to and will take to guarantee that retaining our automobiles operating effectively doesn’t pose a well being threat to our canine.

Hinder encourages all canine guardians to be very cautious when utilizing and storing antifreeze in addition to brake and transmission fluids. Along with being considerate about how and the place you retailer your antifreeze, it’s essential to wash up spills, leaks or drips as quickly as attainable to stop your canine from exploring this harmful fluid.

Dr. Stern means that there are even some pet-safe antifreezes in the marketplace now. These merchandise sometimes include propylene glycol because the energetic ingredient, which she describes as having a a lot wider margin of security. Nevertheless, even these “pet-safe” antifreeze merchandise will nonetheless trigger medical issues if a canine ingests massive quantities. Keep on the protected facet and hold your canine away from all chemical substances.

Thumbnail: Pictures © Milan_Jovic | iStock / Getty Pictures Plus.

Concerning the writer

Sassafras Lowrey is an award-winning writer and Licensed Trick Canine Teacher. Sassafras’ forthcoming books embrace: “Tips IN THE CITY: For Daring Canines and the People That Love Them,” “Therapeutic/Heeling,” and Bedtime Tales for Rescue Canines: William To The Rescue. Be taught extra at www.SassafrasLowrey.com

Learn extra about canine well being and care on petsupplyandmore.com:

from Pet Supply and More http://petsupplyandmore.com/index.php/2019/02/27/antifreeze-poisoning-in-canines-what-you-have-to-know/

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jeffreyrwelch · 5 years

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Antifreeze Poisoning in Dogs — What You Need to Know

The post Antifreeze Poisoning in Dogs — What You Need to Know by Sassafras Lowrey appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Antifreeze is an additive put into a vehicle’s engine cooling system to lower the water’s freezing point to reduce the likelihood of the vehicle’s cooling system freezing. It is also used to raise the boiling point of the engine coolant to prevent overheating. Antifreeze is good for cars — but dangerous to dogs. Here’s what to know about antifreeze poisoning in dogs.

Antifreeze Poisoning in Dogs — Why Does It Happen?

Unfortunately, dogs are attracted to antifreeze. Photography ©damedeeso | Getty Images.

One of the biggest problems about antifreeze is that dogs are often attracted to it. Embrace Pet Insurance Claims Manager Rachel Hinder explains that dogs are attracted to the sweetness in the chemicals. Antifreeze is odorless and the main problem is the toxic active ingredient ethylene glycol. Keep antifreeze away from your dog at all costs.

It’s extremely important to keep dogs away from antifreeze but what should you do if you think your dog got into antifreeze?

Symptoms of Antifreeze Poisoning in Dogs

Unfortunately, antifreeze poisoning is fast and serious. “Within 30 minutes of ingestion, dogs are lethargic, uncoordinated, hypothermic, can vomit, urinate excessively and drink excessively,” Rachel explains.

“Twelve to 24 hours after ingestion, symptoms often appear to improve, although this does not mean the dog is not in danger,” Rachel explains. “During this time, dehydration and kidney damage progress.”

This is when conditions for dogs can get very critical. “Thirty-six to 72 hours after ingestion, the kidneys shut down, which can cause abdominal pain, inability to produce urine, depression, lethargy, seizures, coma and ultimately can lead to death,” Rachel says.

Diagnosing Antifreeze Poisoning in Dogs

Seek veterinary care immediately if you even suspect antifreeze poisoning in dogs.

Laura Stern, DVM, DABVT, and Director of Client Programs at ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center advises, “You’ll also want to be sure to bring with you the packaging from the antifreeze, so the veterinarian can determine the best form of treatment based on the amount ingested and the ingredients listed in the product.”

At the clinic or hospital, the veterinarian will evaluate your dog, and run blood tests to determine if your dog was exposed to enough antifreeze to compromise his health and work with you to create a treatment plan.

Treating Antifreeze Poisoning in Dogs

Dr. Stern explains that the priority with treating antifreeze poisoning in dogs is to prevent the dog’s body from metabolizing the ethylene glycol. If your dog is taken to the vet within the first one to two hours of antifreeze exposure, your vet will probably attempt to induce vomiting.

Hinder explains that a dog will also likely receive IV fluids to help flush the body and maintain hydration status. In some cases, veterinarians are also able to give dogs exposed to antifreeze medications that may help counteract the effects of ethylene glycol.

Prognosis of Antifreeze Poisoning in Dogs

The prognosis for antifreeze poisoning in dogs really depends on how quickly a dog receives veterinary care, and how much antifreeze was consumed. “Ingestion of antifreeze containing ethylene glycol can be fatal if not treated immediately,” cautions Dr. Stern.

Since ethylene glycol acts so fast, a lot of damage can be done very quickly after a dog gets into antifreeze.

“The least amount ingested, treated as soon as possible, will have the best prognosis,” advises Rachel. Breaking this down even further, Dr. Stern explains that “prognosis for dogs that receive prompt, aggressive treatment is fair. Prognosis is grave for dogs that start treatment after they are already in kidney failure.”

Antifreeze Poisoning for Dogs — What Dogs Are Most at Risk?

While antifreeze is extremely dangerous to all dogs, Rachel explains that any dog who already has a decreased kidney function will be at a great risk of complications from ethylene glycol toxicity.

Also take special care with inquisitive, destructive and young puppies who are more likely to be curious and explore areas where they could come into contact with antifreeze. “Even a small amount can be fatal, so any exposure warrants a call to your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center,” advises Dr. Stern.

How Can You Avoid Antifreeze Poisoning in Dogs?

For many of us, having antifreeze on hand is a fact of life, but there are precautions we can and should take to make sure that keeping our cars running well doesn’t pose a health risk to our dogs.

Hinder encourages all dog guardians to be very cautious when using and storing antifreeze as well as brake and transmission fluids. In addition to being thoughtful about how and where you store your antifreeze, it’s important to clean up spills, leaks or drips as soon as possible to prevent your dogs from exploring this dangerous fluid.

Dr. Stern suggests that there are even some pet-safe antifreezes on the market now. These products typically contain propylene glycol as the active ingredient, which she describes as having a much wider margin of safety. However, even these “pet-safe” antifreeze products will still cause medical complications if a dog ingests large amounts. Stay on the safe side and keep your dog away from all chemicals.

Thumbnail: Photography © Milan_Jovic | iStock / Getty Images Plus.

About the author

Sassafras Lowrey is an award-winning author and Certified Trick Dog Instructor. Sassafras’ forthcoming books include: “Tricks IN THE CITY: For Daring Dogs and the Humans That Love Them,” “Healing/Heeling,” and Bedtime Stories for Rescue Dogs: William To The Rescue. Learn more at www.SassafrasLowrey.com

Read more about dog health and care on Dogster.com:

5 Winter Health Hazards for Dogs

Do Dogs Have Belly Buttons?

How to Trim Dog Nails — Safely

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daddyslittlejuliet · 5 years

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Antifreeze Poisoning in Dogs — What You Need to Know

Antifreeze Poisoning in Dogs — Why Does It Happen?

Unfortunately, dogs are attracted to antifreeze. Photography ©damedeeso | Getty Images.

It’s extremely important to keep dogs away from antifreeze but what should you do if you think your dog got into antifreeze?

Symptoms of Antifreeze Poisoning in Dogs

Diagnosing Antifreeze Poisoning in Dogs

Seek veterinary care immediately if you even suspect antifreeze poisoning in dogs.

Treating Antifreeze Poisoning in Dogs

Prognosis of Antifreeze Poisoning in Dogs

Since ethylene glycol acts so fast, a lot of damage can be done very quickly after a dog gets into antifreeze.

Antifreeze Poisoning for Dogs — What Dogs Are Most at Risk?

While antifreeze is extremely dangerous to all dogs, Rachel explains that any dog who already has a decreased kidney function will be at a great risk of complications from ethylene glycol toxicity.

How Can You Avoid Antifreeze Poisoning in Dogs?

For many of us, having antifreeze on hand is a fact of life, but there are precautions we can and should take to make sure that keeping our cars running well doesn’t pose a health risk to our dogs.

Thumbnail: Photography © Milan_Jovic | iStock / Getty Images Plus.

About the author

Read more about dog health and care on Dogster.com:

5 Winter Health Hazards for Dogs

Do Dogs Have Belly Buttons?

How to Trim Dog Nails — Safely

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stiles-wtf · 5 years

Text

Antifreeze Poisoning in Dogs — What You Need to Know

Antifreeze Poisoning in Dogs — Why Does It Happen?

Unfortunately, dogs are attracted to antifreeze. Photography ©damedeeso | Getty Images.

It’s extremely important to keep dogs away from antifreeze but what should you do if you think your dog got into antifreeze?

Symptoms of Antifreeze Poisoning in Dogs

Diagnosing Antifreeze Poisoning in Dogs

Seek veterinary care immediately if you even suspect antifreeze poisoning in dogs.

Treating Antifreeze Poisoning in Dogs

Prognosis of Antifreeze Poisoning in Dogs

Since ethylene glycol acts so fast, a lot of damage can be done very quickly after a dog gets into antifreeze.

Antifreeze Poisoning for Dogs — What Dogs Are Most at Risk?

While antifreeze is extremely dangerous to all dogs, Rachel explains that any dog who already has a decreased kidney function will be at a great risk of complications from ethylene glycol toxicity.

How Can You Avoid Antifreeze Poisoning in Dogs?

For many of us, having antifreeze on hand is a fact of life, but there are precautions we can and should take to make sure that keeping our cars running well doesn’t pose a health risk to our dogs.

Thumbnail: Photography © Milan_Jovic | iStock / Getty Images Plus.

About the author

Read more about dog health and care on Dogster.com:

5 Winter Health Hazards for Dogs

Do Dogs Have Belly Buttons?

How to Trim Dog Nails — Safely

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buynewsoul · 5 years

Text

Antifreeze Poisoning in Dogs — What You Need to Know

Antifreeze Poisoning in Dogs — Why Does It Happen?

Unfortunately, dogs are attracted to antifreeze. Photography ©damedeeso | Getty Images.

It’s extremely important to keep dogs away from antifreeze but what should you do if you think your dog got into antifreeze?

Symptoms of Antifreeze Poisoning in Dogs

Diagnosing Antifreeze Poisoning in Dogs

Seek veterinary care immediately if you even suspect antifreeze poisoning in dogs.

Treating Antifreeze Poisoning in Dogs

Prognosis of Antifreeze Poisoning in Dogs

Since ethylene glycol acts so fast, a lot of damage can be done very quickly after a dog gets into antifreeze.

Antifreeze Poisoning for Dogs — What Dogs Are Most at Risk?

While antifreeze is extremely dangerous to all dogs, Rachel explains that any dog who already has a decreased kidney function will be at a great risk of complications from ethylene glycol toxicity.

How Can You Avoid Antifreeze Poisoning in Dogs?

For many of us, having antifreeze on hand is a fact of life, but there are precautions we can and should take to make sure that keeping our cars running well doesn’t pose a health risk to our dogs.

About the author

Read more about dog health and care on Dogster.com:

5 Winter Health Hazards for Dogs

Do Dogs Have Belly Buttons?

How to Trim Dog Nails — Safely

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grublypetcare · 5 years

Text

Antifreeze Poisoning in Dogs — What You Need to Know

The post Antifreeze Poisoning in Dogs — What You Need to Know by Sassafras Lowrey appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Antifreeze Poisoning in Dogs — Why Does It Happen?

It’s extremely important to keep dogs away from antifreeze but what should you do if you think your dog got into antifreeze?

Symptoms of Antifreeze Poisoning in Dogs

Diagnosing Antifreeze Poisoning in Dogs

Seek veterinary care immediately if you even suspect antifreeze poisoning in dogs.

Treating Antifreeze Poisoning in Dogs

Prognosis of Antifreeze Poisoning in Dogs

Since ethylene glycol acts so fast, a lot of damage can be done very quickly after a dog gets into antifreeze.

Antifreeze Poisoning for Dogs — What Dogs Are Most at Risk?

While antifreeze is extremely dangerous to all dogs, Rachel explains that any dog who already has a decreased kidney function will be at a great risk of complications from ethylene glycol toxicity.

How Can You Avoid Antifreeze Poisoning in Dogs?

For many of us, having antifreeze on hand is a fact of life, but there are precautions we can and should take to make sure that keeping our cars running well doesn’t pose a health risk to our dogs.

About the author

Read more about dog health and care on Dogster.com:

5 Winter Health Hazards for Dogs

Do Dogs Have Belly Buttons?

How to Trim Dog Nails — Safely

The post Antifreeze Poisoning in Dogs — What You Need to Know by Sassafras Lowrey appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

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cutshawsnidowoa · 4 years

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The ABC’s of CBD For Cats

The post The ABC’s of CBD For Cats by Elizabeth Anderson Lopez appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

Not every human medical treatment is also used for cats, of course, but cannabidiol, aka CBD, happens to be one at the forefront for both people and pets. That’s because we share something in common. “Cats, like all animals — including humans and excluding insects — have an endocannabinoid system that regulates the neurological, physiological and immunological systems of the body, including the central nervous system,” says Jodi Ziskin, director of communications with Treatibles in Petaluma, California.

“When there is a deficiency of cannabinoid production in the body, the addition of phytocannabinoids — cannabinoids from plants — can help the endocannabinoid system regulate calm, balance and ease.”

While CBD products have only trace amounts of THC (the component of marijuana that causes a “high”), there are state and federal regulations that restrict the wording manufacturers can use to tout the benefits of CBD. Generally speaking, many manufacturers report that cat owners have said CBD has helped with the following feline conditions: inflammation, pain, chronic anxiety, discomfort, mobility issues, digestive tract upset, loss of appetite and seizures.

Then there’s also the use for specific circumstances to help kitty cope. “Cats are far more creatures of habit than their canine counterparts, and even the slightest change in routine, diet, environment or schedule can cause anxious or fearful actions, aggressive behavior, or even improper elimination,” says Paul DiBrito, president of Paw CBD in Charlotte, North Carolina. “In fact, litter box issues and marking behavior are among the main reasons cats are surrendered to shelters each year.”

Chelsea Gennings, vice president of business development and special projects of Pet Releaf, in Littleton, Colorado, offers: “CBD is extremely helpful in helping situational anxiety, which cats often experience during travel or when there are a lot of people in the house, because of its soothing and calming properties.”

Paul adds: “Any product that can contribute to a daily wellness regimen would be a welcome option for cat owners looking to help their feline friends. CBD is a great natural option for supporting balance and maintaining overall health and wellness.”

How to give it

When it comes to using CBD on your cat, there are different form factors. “The most common application methods for cats are typically oils or tinctures, topicals, sprays and capsules,” explains Grace Kaucic, digital marketing specialist at Bluebird Botanicals in Louisville, Colorado. “Oils and tinctures are typically lumped into the same category but have slight differences. Oils are, as you might guess, an oil-based solution, while tinctures are typically an alcohol-based solution.

Topicals include creams, salves and balms that are applied directly to the skin. Sprays are another common method. They typically involve an alcohol-based solution that you can spray onto your cat’s fur. Finally, soft gels contain an oil solution contained in a gelatin capsule.”

Paul says that CBD oils or tinctures are given under the tongue, allowing CBD to release throughout the body. He adds this specific tip: “Make sure the product you choose has a plastic dropper and not glass. Sharp teeth and glass droppers are an accident waiting to happen!”

Jodi points out, “When applied directly into the mouth, the oil is absorbed both via the mucosal membranes under the tongue and through the digestive process. Benefits are often experienced more rapidly, sometimes in as soon as five minutes. That’s not to say it is more effective, just that the results can be experienced sooner.”

And there may be other issues. “You can place the tincture right in your kitty’s mouth,” says Angie Krause, DVM, with Boulder Holistic Vet in Boulder, Colorado. “This provides for the best absorption but is the least desirable for most cats.”

Photo: Getty Images

Food for thought

Jodi further explains the differences when adding CBD oil to your cat’s food, which is also a popular delivery method. “When placed on or mixed into food, the CBD oil is digested along with the food,” she says. “That slows down the absorption but not the benefits. It may take 20 minutes or more for the kitty to begin experiencing desired results.” She adds a food tip for extra finicky felines — mix the CBD with a strong-tasting liquid such as the water from a can of tuna or plain yogurt.

If you decide to add CBD to your cat’s food, there are still options to consider — dry or wet? “If the oil has a distinct smell or flavor that would cause food aversion, it would not be recommended to add it to the food,” says Judy Morgan DVM, CVA, CVCP, CVFT, of Naturally Healthy Pets, based in Woodstown, New Jersey. “Cats have a good sense of smell and can get very picky and back off their food easily if they smell anything they aren’t pleased with. I feel it is much easier to mix into canned or other wet food than dry food.”

Grace concurs: “Wet food is typically more pungent and flavorful and can easily disguise the taste and smell. Plus, many wet foods are oily, which allows the CBD oil to mix in easily.”

Go with the method you think will be most appealing to your cat because ultimately, consumption is linked to proper doses. “It is more about your pet eating all the pieces that are covered,” says Jon Neveloff, partner with King Kanine in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. “If cats don’t finish the food then you will not know how much of the oils they received.“

As a bonus, the option that’s best for your cat is also best for your wallet — CBD oil that’s consumed is CBD oil not being wasted.

Going topical

While many manufacturers recommend giving CBD orally, topical application is an option, as well. In fact, King Kanine is one of the manufacturers that makes both. “Our line of topicals are specifically made for the paws and skin issues,” Jon says. “Our CBD-infused King Kalm Soothe Spray was formulated to help pets with dermal abrasions, hot spots and dry, cracked skin.”

Grace echos the precise placement provided by skin application. “Topicals can allow you to deliver CBD to specific target areas of your cat’s body, while ingestible CBD is a good option for those looking to promote overall wellness for your cat.” Keep in mind that if you go the topical route, your cat may have other ideas. “For cats, most topical exposures quickly become oral exposures due to grooming behavior,” says Tina Wismer, DVM, MS, DABVT, DABT, medical director of the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center in New York City.

Because of that “dual use,” another consideration is ingredients. “It’s important to make sure any topical balm or salve used on cats is approved and safe, as they often contain essential oils and other ingredients that could be harmful for cats,” cautions Heidi Hill, Holistic Hound founder and trained homeopath based in Berkeley, California.

However, you can use the real estate mantra to deter oral consumption of a topical treatment with — yep — location, location, location.

“Generally, the inside of the ear tip is a great spot for rapid absorption that is harder to clean immediately for the cat,” Dr. Morgan says.

“If you want to put a topical CBD product somewhere they can’t lick, try right at the base of their head or on their chest closer to the chin,” Grace suggests.

And if you really need to deter licking, there’s always the “shame” option. “CBD lotions are typical for addressing skin conditions, so cats will often have to wear a cone to restrict their licking,” Chelsea says.

Whether you opt for oral or topical administration, how much is just as important as how. Most manufacturers have suggested dosages based on weight. “We worked with an integrative veterinarian who is also an expert in cannabis, to help formulate our products,” Heidi says. “We recommend approximately 1 mg CBD per 10 pounds of body weight, given once or twice daily, depending on the condition.”

But that’s just a starting point. “You know your cat better than anyone,” Jodi says. “Start with the low dose and observe the response. If your cat’s issue doesn’t seem to be improving, double the dose the next time. Some cats only need one dose per day — some two or three.”

And don’t hesitate to ask your vet for guidance — for multiple reasons. “Like with any product, you should consult with your veterinarian to determine if CBD products are right for your pet and what the proper dosage should be,” Dr. Wismer says. “There’s a lot of information online that can be misleading, and consulting with a professional should always be your first step. That’s especially important if your pet is on other medications. Mixing medications and substances can affect animals’ livers.”

The Trick of Treats

If you want another option to topical or orally administering CBD oil, we have a treat for you and your cat – treats! Several manufacturers make this option.

“For cat’s that won’t comply with either of these options, CBD-infused chews are a good alternative,” says Dr. Krause says., citing improved palatability and compliance. She adds that treats “can be more costly per milligram of CBD and might contain other ingredients that your kitty might be sensitive to.”

Grace adds that treats can be another great way to introduce CBD to your cat. “Cats typically associate treats with fun times, so you’ll likely have the easiest time getting them to try CBD in treat form,” she says. “However, the challenges come with the other ingredients in the treats. You’ll want to make sure you research the brand and product ahead of time to ensure that your product actually contains the amount of CBD it says it does and is free from any harmful ingredients.”

According to Jodi: “One of the great benefits of offering a CBD chew is that the dose will be consistent each time. The challenge is whether the cat likes the taste and mouth feel of the chew.”

There’s a pro and a con to treats, says Dr. Wismer. “CBD in treat form can be a highly effective method if the treat is tasty and of interest to the cat. The biggest downside to anything in treat form is that they may become curious and get into the bag of treats causing an overdose of CBD, which may cause issues in your pet.”

And if you’d like a hybrid solution with treats and CBD oil you already have, there’s the DIY method. “Freeze-dried food or treats are great as they absorb the oil like a sponge,” Dr. Krause says.

Remember how you and your cat share something in common? As a reminder, while that applies to many conditions treated with CBD oil — it does not mean you can share the same CBD products. CBD products for humans can contain toxic flavorings. If you have a dog taking CBD oil, you can give that to your cat. Just maybe don’t tell your cat she’s getting the dog’s leftovers.

from Catster https://www.catster.com/cat-health-care/the-abcs-of-cbd-for-cats via IFTTT

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