CBD for Dogs and Cats
What to look for, how to dose, and why pet-formulated matters.
The non-negotiables
- Zero THC. THC is toxic to dogs and cats. Use only broad spectrum (THC-free) or isolate products on pets — never full spectrum.
- Pet-formulated. Pet products use AAFCO-approved flavorings (bacon, fish, etc.) and verify the carrier oil is pet-safe (no xylitol, no chocolate, no essential oils that are toxic to animals).
- Third-party tested. Look for current COAs, exactly like a human product. The bar should not be lower because it's for an animal.
- Talk to your vet first if your pet is on prescription medication. CBD can interact with how the liver metabolizes some drugs.
Dosing by weight
A reasonable starting range is 0.1–0.25 mg of CBD per pound of body weight, once a day. Start at the low end. Watch your pet for two or three days. If you don't see what you're hoping for, increase slowly.
| Pet weight | Starting dose (low) | Higher end |
|---|---|---|
| 10 lb cat or small dog | ~1 mg | ~2.5 mg |
| 25 lb dog | ~2.5 mg | ~6 mg |
| 50 lb dog | ~5 mg | ~12 mg |
| 75 lb dog | ~7.5 mg | ~18 mg |
| 100 lb dog | ~10 mg | ~25 mg |
These are general starting points based on commonly cited ranges. Your vet's recommendation supersedes any chart on the internet.
How to give it to your pet
- Drop it on a treat or food — easiest method, especially if the carrier oil is bacon-flavored.
- Directly in the mouth — fastest onset (15–30 min), but most pets won't cooperate.
- Mixed into peanut butter or wet food — slower onset (~45–60 min) but reliable.
FAQ
Is CBD safe for dogs?
CBD is generally well tolerated in dogs based on available studies, but two rules matter. First: never give a dog full-spectrum CBD that contains THC — THC is toxic to dogs. Use a broad-spectrum (THC-free) product formulated for pets. Second: talk to your vet before adding CBD to your dog's routine, especially if they take medication.
What about cats?
Cats can use the same THC-free broad-spectrum formulations as dogs, dosed by weight. Cats are smaller and metabolize cannabinoids differently — start at the lowest end of the dosage range and watch for changes.
How much CBD should I give my dog?
A common starting point is 0.1–0.25 mg of CBD per pound of body weight, once a day. A 50 lb dog would start at roughly 5–12 mg. Adjust based on what you observe over a few days.
What's AAFCO approval?
AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) sets standards for pet food and treat ingredients. AAFCO-approved flavoring means the bacon flavor in the product meets pet-food safety standards — not just human-grade flavoring repurposed.
Will CBD make my pet sleepy?
At normal doses, no. At higher doses, mild drowsiness is the most common observed side effect, similar to in humans. Start low, watch your pet, and adjust.
This article is for educational purposes only. botanCBD pet products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult your veterinarian before starting your pet on a new wellness product.
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