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Cannabidiol (CBD)

Prescription

Phytocannabinoid / Analgesic / Anti-inflammatory

Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team

Species

Dog, Cat

Brands

1 available

Interactions

2 documented

Formulations

Mechanism of action

Non-psychoactive cannabinoid that modulates endocannabinoid system via CB1/CB2 receptor interactions, activates 5-HT1A receptors (anxiolytic), inhibits anandamide reuptake, and modulates TRPV1 receptors (pain). Anti-inflammatory and anti-seizure properties.

At a glance

Class

Phytocannabinoid / Analgesic / Anti-inflammatory

Schedule

Prescription

Storage

Store in cool, dark place; protect from heat and light

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Evidence supports efficacy for OA pain and seizure reduction (adjunct)

Dose

2.5–5 mg/kg

Route

Frequency

q12h

🐈

Cat

Emerging evidence for feline pain and anxiety

Dose

2 mg/kg

Route

Frequency

q12h

Educational reference only

This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →

Formulations

💊

Other — 3

Strength

—

Strength

—

Strength

—

Storage

Store in cool, dark place; protect from heat and light

Safety

Monitoring parameters

ALP and hepatic enzymes at 2 weeks and q3 monthsPain scoresSeizure diaryConcurrent drug levels

Educational reference only

Interactions

Moderate — 2

Phenobarbital

moderate

CBD inhibits CYP2B11 and CYP2C19, reducing phenobarbital metabolism and increasing levels by 10-20%. Also, both cause sedation.

Management: Monitor phenobarbital levels at 2 and 4 weeks after adding CBD. Reduce phenobarbital dose if levels exceed therapeutic range. Monitor for excessive sedation.

Cyclosporine (Systemic)

moderate

CBD inhibits CYP3A4 and P-glycoprotein, potentially increasing cyclosporine levels.

Management: Monitor cyclosporine levels when adding CBD. May need cyclosporine dose reduction.

Educational reference only

Brands

Other markets

various veterinary products

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

›What is Cannabidiol (CBD)?

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a phytocannabinoid / analgesic / anti-inflammatory used in pets. Non-psychoactive cannabinoid that modulates endocannabinoid system via CB1/CB2 receptor interactions, activates 5-HT1A receptors (anxiolytic), inhibits anandamide reuptake, and modulates TRPV1 receptors (pain). Anti-inflammatory and anti-seizure properties.

›What is Cannabidiol (CBD) used for in pets?

Cannabidiol (CBD) is used in veterinary medicine for: Evidence supports efficacy for OA pain and seizure reduction (adjunct); Emerging evidence for feline pain and anxiety.

›What is the Cannabidiol (CBD) dose for dogs?

For dogs, Cannabidiol (CBD) is typically dosed as follows — Evidence supports efficacy for OA pain and seizure reduction (adjunct): 2.5–5 mg/kg PO q12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.

›What is the Cannabidiol (CBD) dose for cats?

For cats, Cannabidiol (CBD) is typically dosed as follows — Emerging evidence for feline pain and anxiety: 2 mg/kg PO q12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.

›Does Cannabidiol (CBD) need a prescription?

Yes. Cannabidiol (CBD) is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.

Educational reference only

References

The PetCare.AI drug reference is built from 13 authoritative sources cited across 580 drug monographs.

Textbooks & handbooks — 5

Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook
Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology
Merck Veterinary Manual
NRC Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats
Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics (Riviere & Papich)

Clinical guidelines & consensus — 4

ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Guidelines
AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines
ASPCA Poison Control Guidelines
RECOVER CPR Guidelines

Journals & peer-reviewed studies — 2

EPIC Study (J Vet Intern Med 2016)
JVIM FAT CAT Study

Regulatory & approvals — 1

CDSCO Veterinary Drug Approval Registry (1969–2026)

Databases — 1

Washington State University VCPL MDR1 Database