Just like people, horses experience medical issues that can leave owners not knowing how to proceed. We know that you want the very best for your four-legged companion, but what exactly does that entail? Are the potential adverse reactions to conventional medications worth the risk? When problems arise (and they inevitably do) it is important for horse owners to know their options in terms of the way specific ailments are treated. This is where CBD comes into play.
By now you are likely familiar with the benefits that CBD has for people. From promoting relaxation to easing pain, CBD oil is improving lives every single day. It was only a matter of time before people began wondering if the powerful herb could also benefit their animals. As it turns out, it can! In fact, over three decades worth of studies suggest that CBD is an incredibly effective way to boost overall wellness in dogs, cats, and horses.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about CBD oil for horses. The ways in which it can benefit your horse may surprise you. Let’s get started!
What is CBD Oil
CBD oil is a liquid substance derived from the cannabis plant. The oil is all natural and non-toxic and is finally getting the attention it deserves in terms of how we treat certain health issues.
With the growing conversation surrounding CBD oil for animals, many pet owners have questions regarding how an herb could have such incredibly medical benefits. Before we dive into all of the ways that CBD oil can help your horse, let’s clear up a few misunderstandings.
Facts Vs. Fiction: What You Need to Know!
Think of the Cannabis Sativa L. plant as a kind of umbrella term. Under the plant are both the marijuana plant and the hemp plant. Although the two have similarities, they also have important differences that horse owners should be aware of.
Cannabis plants are comprised of 80 different cannabinoids. Of these cannabinoids, cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are two of the most studied. This is also where many misunderstandings stem from.
There is still a rather negative stigma surrounding the cannabis plant due to its association with the “stoner” characters portrayed on television. However, this generalization couldn’t be farther from the truth in terms of the cannabis oil used for treating ailments. In efforts to help remove the stigma, we want to explain a few things more in depth. We hope that our readers will then be able to educate others and that more correct knowledge regarding cannabis oil will be passed on from there. The more pet owners that know the benefits of CBD oil, the more animals that can be helped in an all natural, non-toxic way. We feel that’s something we all can stand behind.
HEMP-DERIVED CBD
Perhaps the most important difference between the hemp plant and the marijuana plant is that CBD oil derived from the hemp plant contains no more than 0.3% THC. Why is this so important? We’re glad you asked.
THC is the chemical compound that gives its users the euphoric, “high” feeling associated with cannabis. Due to the fact that the levels of THC in the hemp plant are virtually non-existent, hemp-derived CBD will not get your horse high or experience any euphoric feelings. Many pet owners wonder if CBD for animals will get their pet “high.” The answer is absolutely not.
Additionally, CBD derived from the hemp plant is legal in all 50 states and can be purchased with a click of a button.
MARIJUANA-DERIVED CBD
It is important to note that CBD can also be derived from the marijuana plant. The CBD oil will contain higher traces of THC, the psychoactive property that most associate with getting high. Although many studies prove that horses can tolerate marijuana-derived CBD*, it is not legal in most states. Therefore, the CBD oil that you purchase for your horse will be derived from the hemp plant, not the marijuana plant.
*Additionally, it is necessary to mention that while horses can tolerate marijuana-derived CBD, other animals, like dogs and cats, cannot. Again, in most cases, this won’t be an issue but if you live in a state that has legalized marijuana products it is imperative that you only purchase hemp-derived CBD for your animals.
CBD & Horses: How They Interact
So, how does it all work? Hemp and cannabis both contain chemical compounds called cannabinoids. Horses (like people) have an Endocannabinoid System (ECS). The receptor system interacts with cannabinoids (such as CBD cannabidiol) to help maintain overall homeostasis within the body. As you may imagine, it is imperative that the system works efficiently.
When a cannabinoid such as CBD is introduced, it helps to support the overall function of the Endocannabinoid System. It is comparable to the way that vitamin C supports the immune system.
CBD Hemp Oil Benefits for Horses
Horse owners are finding that hemp derived CBD oil can benefit their four-legged friend in a number of ways. Let’s take a look at all the ways CBD oil can benefit your horse.
ARTHRITIS IN HORSES
One of the most common health conditions that many horses face is arthritis. The disease is caused by chronic inflammation which leads to permanent degradation of the cartilage surrounding the horses’ joints. Arthritis can cause the horse to experience a terrible amount of pain and ultimately affect their quality of life. Luckily, CBD may be able to help. When it comes to arthritis, the disease is unable to be entirely reversed. However, horse owners may help support mobility with CBD oil.
CBD HEMP OIL FOR PAIN
Perhaps the hardest part of being a pet owner is recognizing that your horse is in pain. Conventional pain medications are accompanied by a slew of potential adverse reactions that leave many wondering if the risks are worth the possible reward. Of course, you don’t want your beloved horse to be in pain, but at what cost?
Luckily, CBD may play a role in easing the pain. The best news? Studies suggest that CBD hemp oil has virtually zero side effects, much unlike those associated with conventional pain medications.
GASTRIC ULCERS IN HORSES
At one point or another, many horses are diagnosed with gastric ulcers. Sadly, up to 90% of adult horses will be diagnosed with gastric ulcer disease at some point in their life. The ulcers can be incredibly painful and affect the horse’s appetite and overall nature. In cases of equine gastric ulcer syndrome, CBD may be able to help. Anecdotal evidence suggests that CBD can boost appetite as well as overall wellness.
LAMINITIS
Every day, hundreds of horses are diagnosed with a disease called laminitis. Laminitis is the inflammation of the tissues within the horse’s hoof. The disease often causes the horse to experience a severe amount of pain and negatively affects their quality of life. If your horse has been diagnosed with laminitis, you may be interested in trying CBD. Studies suggest that CBD can ease pain and discomfort associated with inflammation.
COLIC
Another ailment that could potentially benefit from CBD oil is colic. Colic is a condition that affects the gastrointestinal tract and can cause the horse to experience abdominal pain. While more studies need to be done, CBD may play a role in easing inflammation.
DESMITIS
Desmitis is caused by inflammation of the horse’s ligaments, typically in the legs and coffin joint. The commonly diagnosed disease is another which may benefit from a CBD oil supplement.
CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH
CBD oil may play a role in promoting a healthy heart. Studies suggest CBD supports blood vessels and an irregular heart rate. CBD oil may also help decrease an elevated heart rate by promoting relaxation.
ALLERGIES AND SKIN CONDITIONS
CBD may contribute to an allergy-free life. Many times, allergy symptoms appear in the form of skin conditions which can create even bigger issues for a horse owner. Skin issues such as hives and pruritus (severe, intense itching) may be soothed by implementing CBD oil into your horse’s life.
SUPPORTING IMMUNE FUNCTION
CBD hemp oil contains omega-3 fatty acids. Studies show that these fatty acids help to absorb vitamins and therefore support overall immune function. By implementing CBD oil into your horse’s diet, you can boost overall wellness and health.
IMPROVING MOBILITY
Added stress on the joints, either due to trauma or chronic wearing, will ultimately lead to the development of arthritis. If your horse is aging or has experienced physical trauma of any kind, you may want to consider CBD. Studies suggest that CBD oil may promote mobility!
CBD FOR DIGESTIVE HEALTH
Additionally, CBD oil may promote healthy digestion. Some people have noted an improvement in bloating, nausea, indigestion, lack of appetite, and heartburn after using CBD oil.
Interestingly enough, in humans, CBD may also play a role in easing nausea and boosting the appetite. The research is even acknowledged by the National Cancer Institute.
ANXIETY AND CBD
Just like humans, horses can experience bouts of anxiety, particularly when traveling in a trailer. Additionally, some competition horses may experience something called “arena anxiety” which can also affect the anxiety level of their rider. In these instances, CBD may be useful. Clinical trials suggest that CBD oil may promote relaxation in stressful situations.
Horse owners may administer the oil prior to a stressful event. Because hemp-derived CBD has less than 0.3% THC, your horse won’t feel loopy or drowsy. They will still be able to perform or travel, just in a potentially more relaxed state.
Additionally, horses are herd animals and can often face separation anxiety if they are left alone for periods of time. Luckily, CBD may ease those feelings. If you know that your horse is going to be on their own for an extended period of time, you may want to consider CBD oil.
REDUCING INFLAMMATION: WHY IT’S SO IMPORTANT
When we look at the vast majority of health issues (including nearly all of the aforementioned conditions), we find that they all have one major thing in common: inflammation. Inflammation is at the root of nearly every disease that both people and our animals face. From allergies to disease, inflammation is generally to blame. Therefore, reducing inflammation is paramount in not only providing relief for current health issues but also to prevent diseases from developing in the future.
CBD Oil for Horses: Dosage
The dose of CBD oil varies greatly from species to species as it is typically based on weight. Obviously, a horse will require a significantly higher dose of CBD oil than your dog. Any CBD product that you purchase will have a recommended ml per lb label which can help pet owners accurately administer the product. With that said, as always, we recommend consulting with a holistic veterinarian regarding the appropriate CBD dosage for your horse’s individual needs. Some conditions may require less or more of the supplement than others.
Choosing the Best CBD Product
With the rise in popularity of CBD oil, many companies are producing a wide array of CBD products. From balms to sprays to specially formulated treats, the options are growing by the day. When it comes to CBD for horses, most experts suggest sticking to CBD oil. CBD oil comes in tincture form with an easy-to-use dropper. The dropper allows pet owners to have total control over how much of the product their horse receives. Additionally, most horse owners report that administering CBD oil is an easy process that their horse doesn’t seem to mind one bit.
HOW TO USE HEMP OIL FOR PAIN
In order to support mobility, you may want to check out CBD oil. The oil can be administered directly into the horse’s mouth. Experts recommend administering the oil under the horse’s tongue (when possible) as it will be absorbed the fastest that way. Again, the appropriate dosing will be provided on the label but we also recommend talking with your holistic veterinarian. Acute pain and chronic pain may require different dosages.
The Best CBD Oil for Horses
We know that you want the very best for your horse. That means choosing the very best products available. In terms of CBD oil, we hope that you’ll trust the quality of our full spectrum CBD oil. However, if you decide to shop around there are a few important things to be aware of.
ALL NATURAL
First and foremost, make sure that the CBD oil that you purchase for your horse is all natural. If the product is not all natural then it may have been treated with pesticides, fungicides, and/or solvents. Using a CBD product that contains traces of these toxic chemicals ultimately defeats the whole point of choosing a holistic remedy. Choose all natural! You won’t regret it.
LAB TESTED
Next, make sure that the CBD oil comes with a certificate of analysis. The certificate of analysis is a lab report which shows exactly how much CBD the product contains. Unfortunately, with the rise in popularity, many companies are selling products that only contain traces of hemp extract, yet they are marketing them as CBD products. Not only are these products a waste of money, but they won’t deliver any positive results. Any reputable company should be able to provide their product’s certificate of analysis.
FULL SPECTRUM CBD
Additionally, we recommend full spectrum CBD oil as opposed to CBD isolate. CBD isolate is cheaper for companies to use and, therefore, many companies use it. However, it is important to choose a company that uses full spectrum CBD if you want to see optimal results. Here at Honest Paws, we are proud to use full-spectrum CBD oil.
PRICE POINTS
Finally, let’s discuss price points. With so many companies producing CBD oil and CBD products, you’ll likely find a wide range of prices. When it comes to CBD you truly get what you pay for. Yes, some companies may sell their oil at a lower cost, but are you reaping all of the potential benefits that the oil has to offer? Are you purchasing a lab tested, quality product? These are questions pet owners must consider before choosing the best CBD oil for their horse.
Is CBD Safe for My Horses
Studies suggest that CBD oil is safe for horses and has the potential to deliver incredible results. If your horse is suffering from any of the aforementioned health concerns, CBD oil may be a great option for you.
CBD Oil for Horses: The Bottom Line
We know that your horse means the world to you. Most owners would go to the ends of the earth to ensure their horse’s happiness and health. We also know how difficult it can be when health issues arise. For some, the ailments are nearly impossible to prevent. If you recognize any symptoms of disease, don’t delay in seeking medical care for your horse.
Before we close, we want to mention one thing. Even though experts have been studying the effects of CBD oil on animals for over three decades, there is still research that needs to be done before all pet owners will willingly hop on the CBD bandwagon. We get it. The idea that an herb can provide such incredible benefits is a lot to process; however, we’re excited about the data and anecdotal evidence available and look forward to more conclusive studies!
Here at Honest Paws, we have seen results in our own animals and we feel confident that you will, too. For supporting various health issues and boosting overall wellness, we recommend CBD oil for horses.
Sources
https://cannabissupplementsforpets.com/cbd-oil-for-horses/
https://ker.com/equinews/hemp-oil-horses/
https://holistichorse.com/health-care/horses-on-hemp-benefit-naturally-part-4/
https://equusmagazine.com/lameness/coping-with-arthritis-in-horses-8356
https://aaep.org/horsehealth/equine-gastric-ulcer-syndrome
https://www.smartpakequine.com/content/Allergies
https://www.potentdojo.com/cbd-products
https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/cam/hp/cannabis-pdq#section/all