CBD Oil Becoming Popular For Use With Horses

It was merely a matter of time before pet parents would wonder about using CBD products for their companion pets since the compound was purportedly showing success in relieving symptoms for health conditions for them. 

Once formulas were developed for cats and dogs, the popularity soared, and, again, anecdotal results showed the substance effective in these species. It has been less common for our larger animals, including horses. 

However, companies like Holistapet are now formulating specifically designated products for equine. And if previous outcomes are any indication, this species should now see benefits of a similar nature.

How Does Cannabidiol Or CBD Work?

Horses comprise an endocannabinoid system as all mammals do. The system consists of cell receptors and endocannabinoids (chemical compounds), which help to regulate the various functions within the body. CBD interacts with this system, enhancing the regulation process with little side effects and no intoxicating characteristics.

CBD has properties purportedly stabilizing symptoms associated with specific disorders, conditions, ailments relating to health and wellness, particularly inflammation, pain, and anxiety. It has explicitly proven beneficial in regard to severe episodes of epileptic seizures. These benefits carry over to the equine species.

What Areas Does CBD Assist Show The Most Effect For Horses?

Equines present with specific ailments to their species only, but they too have common issues prevalent among humans and domestic pets. The compound boasts as beneficial in either scenario. Go here to find out how your hooved friend takes to cannabidiol.

• Ulcers (Gastric): These are a common affliction for horses affecting nearly half of the overall equine population and almost all ‘thoroughbred racehorses.’ The digestive system notes to contain cannabinoid receptors of a high concentration, allowing CBD to have a positive effect in this area. 

The research is minimal, but studies on rodents show cannabinoids have the potential to decrease the secretion of gastric acid. In addition to the anti-inflammatory properties that CBD offers, there is the possibility of significant results.

• Inflammation: Horses are prone to inflammatory disorders as age progresses, such as 1) laminitis 2) arthritis 3) desmitis / Laminitis is the inflammation of the equine’s hooves and is a common issue for the species. Arthritis is when the joints become inflamed. When the ligaments inflame, this is known as desmitis.

Although the issues are prevalent with all horses, they are exceptionally advanced for those involved in athletics or competitions. CBD oil touts as a potent anti-inflammatory help to reduce swelling and decrease associated pain.

• Other Advantages: The products made for this species specifically also offers advantages for the majestic animal, including:

1. Promotes healthy mane/tail, coat
2. Relieves allergy symptoms and those associated with skin disorders
3. Helps to improve digestive health overall

There are suggestions the compound has the potential to aid with nervous system function as well as the immune system and overall cardiovascular health.

 Safety Guidelines For Horses

CBD oil boasts as nontoxic, safe, and non-psychoactive. Many of the pharmaceutical drugs have the potential for harsh side effects with these animals, especially causing sedation and sluggishness. Cannabidiol has minimal, but it does have a few including:

• A reduction in blood pressure
• Restlessness
• An increase in thirst
• Change in appetite
• Fatigue

Claims suggest if these occur, it is more likely during the early phase of treatment when adjusting to the product. To avoid the risk of side effects, it’s always advisable to start with the smallest possible dose for the size of the animal and gradually build it up to the desired result with the help of the horse’s vet.

Final Thought

The products offer a remarkable safety profile to date, incredible anecdotal and clinical evidence to show effects, and minimal side effects if used according to manufacturer and vet guidelines. 

It would be best to research to ensure that you find the highest standard product and always consult with a vet before initiating any new product into your horse’s regimen. 

The market for this substance is dramatically increasing each day, but studies are still limited when it comes to the horse population. The studies that are available are positive, see this link https://www-dallasnews-com.cdn.ampproject.org/v/s/www.dallasnews.com/opinion/commentary/2020/06/21/hemp-for-horses-studies-show-it-might-work/?amp_js_v=a3&amp_gsa=1&outputType=amp&usqp=mq331AQFKAGwASA%3D#aoh=15976648934202&referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com&amp_tf=From%20%251%24s&ampshare=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dallasnews.com%2Fopinion%2Fcommentary%2F2020%2F06%2F21%2Fhemp-for-horses-studies-show-it-might-work%2F  . Allow a vet to follow your companion with regular visits to ensure overall wellness so your companion can enjoy a quality, happy lifespan.