The nervous system is critical in every dog’s body. It comprises the brain and spine, which are critical for proper function. Promoting neurological health is therefore important, and this is where CBD oil comes in. Read on for more.
What Causes Dog Seizures?
It is heartbreaking to watch your furry canine companion fight seizures. Many factors cause seizures, but here are the main ones.
- Head injuries.
- Vaccines.
- Electrolyte problem.
- Pesticides and herbicides.
- Liver, cancer, or kidney disease.
Topical flea and tick products are also contributing factors.
What are the symptoms of dog seizures?
Now that we know what causes dog seizures understanding the signs to look out for is also critical, as it ensures the problem can be identified before it becomes severe. Some of the symptoms every pet parent must be aware of include the following:
- Incontinence.
- Drooling.
- Jerking.
- Loss of consciousness.
- Foaming at the mouth.
- Chomping.
- Collapsing.
- Muscle twitching.
You can watch for signs like tiny facial tremors or strange barking patterns. Other symptoms could be harder to see. Even though it’s a terrible occurrence, your dog can still have a happy, healthy life using CBD for dog seizures.
Any of these symptoms call for a visit to the vet. Epilepsy is the most typical diagnosis for canine seizures. Due to this disease, your dog will frequently experience sudden bursts of electricity in their brain.
Read more on The Best Dog Foods for Seizures.
What should you do when your dog has a seizure?
Canine seizures can be frightening, but it is important to stay calm and help your dog through the ‘’attack.” Here are some tips.
Record the time.
Take note of the beginning and ending times of your dog’s seizures. Doing this lets you assess whether the patient’s episodes are improving.
Stay calm
Panicking makes it difficult for you to help your dog. It is important to stay calm. Seizures make dogs unconscious, so you can be assured they feel no pain.
Know what’s normal.
Although severe drooling or frothing may appear frightful, such signs of a canine seizure are common.
Keep your dog cool.
Seizures come with overheating; the longer they take, the higher the chances of your pup overheating. After a seizure attack, place a wet cloth or towel on your dog’s head to keep it cool.
Protect your dog.
If your dog is prone to seizures, keep it away from sharp objects and stairs. You can use pillows to ensure your dog does not fall. Avoid putting your hands in your dog’s mouth.
Many people believe that dogs can bite their tongues due to seizures. But this is not true. Putting your hand on your dog’s mouth can lead to a nasty bite.
Record the seizures.
When your dog is awake and secure, note the current time, date, and symptoms. Doing this lets you check if your pet’s episodes are improving or worsening and give the veterinarian important information.
CBD oil dog seizure dose
CBD dosage for seizures varies depending on various factors, including the severity of symptoms and your dog’s weight. However, the general rule is to administer 2 mg per kg. Start slowly with smaller amounts, then gradually raise these amounts. Here’s a tabular illustration:
| Weight in pounds | CBD dosage in mg |
| 5 | 1 |
| 10 | 2 |
| 15 | 3 |
| 20 | 4 |
| 25 | 5 |
| 30 | 6 |
| 40 | 8 |
| 50 | 10 |
| 60 | 12 |
| 75 | 15 |
| 80 | 16 |
| 100 | 20 |
| 150 | 30 |
How does CBD support dogs with neurological problems?
CBD in dogs functions through the endocannabinoid system. This system ensures your pup’s body remains in a balanced, or homeostatic, state. An unbalanced endocannabinoid system resulting from neurological problems like seizures is linked to problems like digestive issues (vomiting, diarrhea, and irregular bowels), lack of appetite, irregular sleep patterns, stress and aggression, lethargy, and lack of interest in physical activity, poor balance and coordination, pain, and inflammation.
Phytocannabinoids in the hemp plant are key to restoring balance in your dog’s body. The nervous system, brain, and glands have CB1 receptors, while the immune system has CB2 receptors.
Although CBD interacts with both receptors, dogs with seizures benefit from CBD’s interaction with CB1 receptors. While CBD isn’t always successful as a stand-alone treatment for neurological illnesses, it can support and reduce the symptoms they bring on, giving your dog more comfort and enabling a healthier lifestyle.
CBD has anti-inflammatory and analgesic (pain-relieving) effects. It has been researched for treating joint and nerve pain independently and in conjunction with pharmaceutical drugs.
Effectiveness of CBD in treating dog seizures.
Positive anecdotal evidence is very motivating. Numerous pet parents agree that CBD has positively impacted their dogs with seizures, even when traditional treatments have been ineffective. Regular use has been demonstrated to reduce both the severity and frequency of seizures.
The American Kennel Club Canine Health Foundation is actively researching the efficacy of CBD for treating seizures in dogs through Colorado State University because the preliminary data is so incredibly optimistic. According to the study, the frequency of seizures decreased in 89% of the dogs who took CBD during the clinical trial.
How do I use CBD for dogs with seizures?
Give CBD to your pet frequently to lessen the intensity and frequency of seizures. Usually, two daily doses are the most effective way to feel better. Since dosage levels might differ significantly from circumstance to circumstance, it might be necessary to experiment to determine the best dosage and delivery frequency.
Remember that CBD has no toxicity, and your dog cannot overdose on it. The side effects are not dire and include drowsiness and low blood pressure. You can find CBD in different forms. There are extracts that you administer using a dropper, mix with your pup’s food, put in your dog’s paws, or add to treats. Additionally, there are capsules, ointments, and biscuits.
Selecting the best CBD oil for dogs with seizures
It is important to choose the right product for your dog. Low-quality CBD can expose your dog to other health issues. THC content is important as it ensures your sick dog does not get high.
THC content
Dogs with seizures require CBD with no THC. Although the human body can withstand the effects of THC, dogs are different, and consuming lots of THC can be toxic. If you should buy CBD with THC, ensure its content is below the recommended 0.3%.
Hemp oil vs. CBD oil for dog seizures
Hemp and CBD oil are used interchangeably. However, they are not similar. Both oils come from cannabis plants. The distinction is that hemp oil comes from the seeds, while CBD oil comes from other sections of the cannabis plant. These sections include the leaves and stem. Both oils are low in THC levels and won’t make your pup high.
Although both oils are beneficial for pets, CBD oil is better. The two products have similar nutritional values, but CBD oil has cannabinoids that boost your dog’s mobility, support neurological health, and reduce inflammation.
CBD and phenobarbital for dogs
CBD and phenobarbital are effective in treating seizures. Phenobarbital, however, has more negative side effects compared to CBD. Pharmaceutical medications, including phenobarbital, expose your pup to other health issues like liver problems. On the other hand, CBD works effectively to control seizures while reducing the risk of negative side effects.
Does CBD oil interact with seizure medication?
CBD may have interactions with other seizure-controlling drugs. It could sometimes increase or decrease the medication’s effectiveness. Some drugs that CBD oil interacts with include clobazam, valproic acid, rufinamide, and topiramate.
Can dogs with epilepsy have CBD?
Yes. Dogs with epilepsy can have CBD oil. CBD oil is effective in controlling the severity and frequency of epileptic episodes. Studies on the effectiveness of CBD oil on epilepsy are, however, ongoing.
Can you take CBD oil with Keppra?
Keppra’s adverse effects, such as drowsiness, disorientation, and problems concentrating, may worsen if cannabis is also consumed. In certain people, especially the elderly, judgment, thinking, and motor coordination may also be impaired.
How many mg of CBD should I give my dog for seizures?
Studies on CBD use for dogs with seizures or arthritic conditions typically utilize doses between 2 and 8 mg/kg, with most publications erring on the side of caution and utilizing about 1-2 mg of CBD per pound twice daily.
What oils are good for epilepsy?
CBD oil is good for epilepsy. It works with the cannabinoid system to lower the severity and frequency of seizures. Start with a small dose, then gradually increase the dose to suit your dog’s needs.
What is the downside of CBD oil?
CBD can have side effects, including dry mouth, decreased appetite, diarrhea, fatigue, and tiredness, even though the body tolerates it well. Other medications, including blood thinners, may also not interact well with CBD.
What should I look for in CBD oil for dogs?
When selecting CBD oil for dogs, look for a certificate of analysis that proves the product has gone through safety and health measures. Additionally, go for CBD oil with no THC.
What are the unusual benefits of CBD oil?
Other unusual benefits of CBD oil include treating psychiatric issues like insomnia, anxiety, and pain in people with substance abuse issues. This shows that CBD oil can treat opiate addiction.
Does CBD have strong effects?
No. CBD oil has little or no THC. This means that it does not make you or your dog high. Consuming it is, therefore, safe for humans and pets.
Wrap Up
There you have it. CBD oil has numerous benefits for your pet’s neurological wellness. This healthy drug interacts with the cannabinoid system to reduce the risk and severity of neurological issues, including seizures. The benefits of using CBD oil for seizures outweigh the risks, making it an essential drug for epileptic dogs.
We have also given you the causes and symptoms to watch out for. This makes it easy to spot and deal with the problem early before it becomes chronic. Introduce CBD oil in small amounts and gradually increase the dosage. Always consult an experienced vet before introducing CBD oil to your dog.