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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
3

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
PO
Frequency
q12h
🐈

Cat

Emerging evidence for feline pain and anxiety
Dose
2 mg/kg
Route
PO
Frequency
q12h

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

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.

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.

References

References

Textbooks & handbooks

  • Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
  • Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
  • Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
  • National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
  • The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/

Clinical guidelines & consensus

  • Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
  • American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.

Journals & peer-reviewed studies

  • Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
  • Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
  • ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control

Regulatory & approvals

  • Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/

Databases

  • Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
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 →