Dogs
Cats
Brand Reviews
Facebook
LinkedIn
Twitter
Copy Link
Best CBD Oil for Cat Seizures at a Glance
- Honest Paws – Best CBD Oil for Cat Seizures
- CBDfx – Broad Spectrum Formula
- Joy Organics – Organic Ingredients
- Extract Labs – Best Value
- cbdMD – Most Options
Can CBD Oil Help Seizures in Cats?
Yes, CBD oil can help cats with seizures. CBD (cannabidiol) is a Cannabis sativa extract that helps reduce the intensity and frequency of seizures thus improving the cat’s quality of life. The phytocannabinoid can also boost the effects of traditional anti-seizure drugs.
How does CBD Oil for Cat Seizures Work?
CBD for cats with seizures works by interacting with the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is a regulator system responsible for managing many body functions (metabolism, appetite, sleep, pain, inflammation, mood, memory), thus maintaining a state of health and balance (homeostasis).
More specifically, CBD exerts its effects by binding with the cannabinoid receptors – CB1 and CB2. CB1 receptors are primarily located in the brain and nervous system, while CB2 receptors are scattered in several peripheral organs.
Studies suggest that the ECS is closely linked with epilepsy and neuroinflammation. To be more accurate, hemp CBD oil has two antiepileptic compounds – cannabidiol (CBD) and cannabidivarin (CBDV). Cannabidiol and Cannabidivarin affect TRPV1 (transient receptor potential vanilloid 1) – a pain receptor located in brain areas linked with epileptic activities.
Based on current information, the working theory is that cannabidiol and cannabidivarin can prevent epileptic seizures by inhibiting the TRPV1 located in the hippocampus. Plus, a recent study in rats showed that even synthetic forms of CBD could be used for managing seizures, decreasing both the frequency and severity of the episodes.
Research on CBD Oil for Cat Seizures
CBD oils help maintain normal nervous system function by promoting normal healthy brain activity and supporting normal nerve conduction and memory recall.
In terms of seizure management, a study conducted in 2010 showed that CBD has potent antiepileptic and anticonvulsant properties.
In 2017, a study published in the Journal of Epilepsy Research comparing the anticonvulsant effects of CBD and THC discovered that CBD has a more defined anticonvulsant profile in animals.
In 2019, a group of researchers from the University of North Carolina School of Medicine demonstrated the CBD’s role in normalizing brain rhythms in mice with Angelman syndrome. Cannabidiol (CBD) may work similarly in cats with epilepsy.
However, perhaps the most groundbreaking clinical trial in this field was conducted by Dr. Stephanie McGrath, a neurologist at Colorado State University. Based on her findings, 89% of the dogs treated with CBD oil experienced a “reduction in the frequency of seizures.”
Finally, seizures can be defined as electrical outbursts between different neurons (brain cells). The abnormal distribution of electrical signals causes inflammation of those neurons (neuroinflammation). Since CBD oil has strong anti-inflammatory properties, it can help manage neuroinflammation.
What is the Best CBD Oil for Cats With Seizures?
With so many pet CBD products on the market, pet owners find it hard to choose the right option for their furry friends. To make things easy, we have selected and reviewed the best CBD oils for cats with seizures.
Summary: Honest Paws is the top pet CBD brand in the US. The Honest Paws CBD oil is full-spectrum and rich in cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and fatty acids. It features MCT coconut oil as a carrier and is extracted from organic, Colorado-grown hemp. The CBD oil is suitable for cats with seizures regardless of age and size because of its antiepileptic and anti-inflammatory features.
Pros
- Full-spectrum CBD oil formula
- Human-grade, vegan, and gluten-free
- Third-party lab-tested
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Cons
- COA does not include pesticides
Review: Pet owners say the Honest Paws cat CBD oil is “worth every penny” because it provides a “dramatic improvement.” They say the oil is an “amazing product.” All in all, Honest Paws has the best CBD oil for cats with seizures.
Summary: CBDfx is a pet CBD brand envisioned and founded by two pet parents. The CBDfx CBD oil features a high-grade broad-spectrum extract from ethically sourced and organic hemp plants. The oil has a bacon flavor and is easy to give. The formula is suitable for all cats with seizures.
Pros
- Human-grade, vegan, and non-GMO
- Sustainably sourced organic hemp
- Third-party lab tested
- Affordable, budget-friendly price
Cons
- Broad-spectrum hemp extract
Review: Cat owners say the CBDfx is a “good product” that “really makes a difference.” They also say the oil “works like a miracle.” All in all, CBDfx is the best broad-spectrum CBD formula for cats with seizures.
Summary: Joy Organics is a sustainable CBD brand based on integrity and excellence. The Joy Organics CBD oil is made with two simple ingredients – organic broad-spectrum hemp extract and organic olive oil. The product is completely THC-free and perfectly safe for cats with seizures.
Pros
- With all-natural and organic ingredients
- Non-psychoactive (100% THC-free)
- Third-party lab results available
- 90-day money-back guarantee
Cons
- Broad-spectrum CBD oil formula
Review: Pet owners say the Joy Organics is a “wonderful tincture,” and they agree that they would “definitely recommend the product.” All in all, Joy Organics offers CBD oil with the best ingredients for cats with seizures.
Summary: Founded by pet people, Extract Labs provides high-quality CBD products. The Extract Labs CBD oil is a full-spectrum formula made from American hemp using a CO2 extraction method. Featuring as much as 1000 mg of CBD per bottle (17 mg per ml), the oil is best suited for large cats with seizures.
Pros
- Full-spectrum hemp oil
- Extra potent CBD oil formula
- Non-GMO and THC-free
- Extracted with CO2 method
Cons
- Not suited for small cats
Review: Cat owners say the Extract Labs CBD oil is a “must-have product” that “does wonders.” They say they “highly recommend” the product. All in all, Extract Labs offers the best value for CBD oil for cats with seizures.
Summary: cbdMD is a CBD brand that favors alternative solutions. Therefore, the cbdMD CBD oil is made with a superior, broad-spectrum hemp extract and enriched with CBG and CBN. It is available in two different concentrations (150 mg and 300 mg per bottle) and cat-friendly flavors (natural and catnip).
Pros
- Enriched with CBG and CBN
- Vegan, gluten-free, and THC-free
- Natural and catnip flavor
- Third-party lab-tested
Cons
- Broad-spectrum CBD oil
Review: Pet owners say the cbdMD CBD oil makes their cats “more happy and more active” and that “the catnip flavor is a hit.” All in all, cbdMD offers the most options for CBD oil for cats with seizures.
How to Use CBD for Cat Seizures
It all starts with choosing the right CBD product. The right CBD product for cats with seizures must be full-spectrum, made from organic and US-grown hemp, free from THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), extracted using CO2, and free from additives fillers, and allergens.
With that being said, you can choose between CBD oil and CBD treats. CBD oils work faster and are more cost-effective. However, they are tricky to use in finicky cats due to their earthy scent and bitter flavor.
On the other hand, CBD treats are more expensive, and their effects are slower, but they are extremely practical. Cat CBD treats feature cat-friendly flavors and are suitable even for pets with picky appetites.
How Much CBD do You Give a Cat for Seizures?
Cats with seizures can receive between 1 and 5 mg of CBD per 10 pounds of body weight. Since most cats are the same weight, it is always the same CBD dosage recommendation – 1 dropper a day, from a 125 mg potency, which translates to 4 mg of CBD a day.
As a general rule of thumb, the veterinarian will recommend starting with a smaller amount of CBD and waiting for a positive reaction. When it comes to epileptic episodes, a positive reaction would mean fewer and lesser episodes. If the cat does not show a positive reaction, you can gradually increase the dose.
On the flip side, if the dose not only manages the seizure episodes but also triggers side effects, it can be slightly decreased. All in all, finding the correct dose of CBD oil for cat seizures takes a little bit of experimenting and regular consults with your trusted vet.
The Benefits of CBD Oil For Cat Seizures
The research on the use of CBD for cats with seizures is in its early ages. However, based on studies and anecdotal evidence, it is safe to assume that CBD works on several levels. Here is a list of the health benefits of CBD oil for cats with seizures:
- Reduced seizures intensity. CBD affects the severity of the seizure episodes resulting in less pronounced electrical outbursts.
- Decreased seizures frequency. CBD supports balance within the central nervous system, thus resulting in fewer and rarer seizures.
- Increased efficacy of antiepileptic meds. CBD can boost the effects of mainstream anti-seizure drugs, thus allowing using smaller amounts.
- Neuroinflammation management. CBD has pronounced anti-inflammatory properties which manage the inflammation accompanying the electrical outbursts.
- Calmness and relaxation. Following seizures, cats feel confused, stiff, and disoriented. In such cases, CBD helps promote calmness and relaxation.
- Enhance bone & joint health
- Promote relaxation & combat stress
- Boost immune system & cognitive function
What can You Give a Cat for Seizures?
To manage seizures in cats, you can give antiepileptic drugs. These are human meds that in veterinary medicine are prescribed off-label. Here is a list of some of the most popular antiepileptic medications:
- Phenobarbital
- Levetiracetam
- Zonisamide
- Gabapentin
- Pregabalin.
These mainstream anti-seizure meds have several caveats. For example, they are not universally effective and not all cats with seizures respond positively.
Even if they manage the seizure, they can be accompanied by severe side effects, and over time, cats tend to build up a tolerance.
What is a Natural Remedy for Seizures in Cats?
CBD as a plant hemp extract is a herbal remedy with antiepileptic and anticonvulsant features. CBD is the most frequently used alternative treatment for seizures in cats, but it is not the only one.
Passion flower, skullcap, and ginger have anticonvulsant properties that we can use to manage epilepsy in pets. Although these studies were conducted on mice, the endocannabinoid system works similarly in all mammals meaning we can expect the same effects in cats too.
Today, there are CBD oils enriched with extracts from passion flowers, ginger, and skullcap to achieve better results.
Additionally, the British Journal of Nutrition published a study showing the positive effect of keto-diets (high-fat, low-carbohydrate content) for managing dog seizures and epilepsy. It is postulated that the concept applies to cats too.
Cat Seizures: Signs & Symptoms
Seizures are defined as sudden and uncontrolled electrical brain activity accompanied by involuntary muscle movement. In simple words, a seizure is an outburst of electrical impulses that can occur unpredictably and randomly or in regular intervals.
On the other hand, epilepsy is defined as a condition that manifests with repeated seizure episodes. Usually, it takes at least two unprovoked episodes for the epilepsy diagnosis to be set. Both seizures and feline epilepsy are serious conditions are require veterinary attention.
Causes of Seizures in Cats
Before discussing seizure causes, it should be noted that the exact underlying cause cannot always be pinpointed. In most cases, it remains unknown what triggers the episodes. With that being said, here is a short review of some determined causes of seizures in cats:
- Exposure to toxins. Many natural and artificial toxins can trigger seizure episodes in cats. The list includes ethylene glycol (antifreeze), chocolate, xylitol (artificial sweetener), pesticides, pyrethrin-based anti-flea treatments for dogs, and certain human medications (antidepressants, ADHD medicines).
- Head trauma. Severe head traumas like car hits and tree fallings are sometimes followed by seizure episodes in cats. Head trauma is not always associated with physical insults. Tumors, parasites, and infections can also trigger brain damage followed by episodes.
- Systemic conditions. Health issues outside the brain can also be linked with seizure episodes in cats. Common triggers include untreated hypertension, hypoglycemia, kidney and liver disease.
- Noise-induced seizures. Cats are susceptible to specific sounds. Like some people, cats cannot stand the metal clinking on another metal, aluminum foil crinkling, pulling Velcro apart, and glass tapping. The seizure episodes triggered by these sounds are called “audiogenic reflex” seizures.
- Idiopathic epilepsy. Idiopathic epilepsy is an inherited condition that usually affects dogs and is mainly a concern for dog owners. However, cat people should be aware of its existence as it can rarely occur in cats too.
Signs Your Cat has Seizures and What to do
Seizures occur in three different stages, and the signs and symptoms differ between those stages. Here is a description of each stage and its accompanying signs:
- Preictal (aura) State: The preictal (aura) phase occurs moments before the actual seizure and lasts several seconds. It is manifested with pacing, circle walking, yowling, and sometimes vomiting.
- Seizure Phase: Cats fall on their side, and the characteristic twitching, shaking and convulsing begin. Additional symptoms like feet paddling, jaw snapping, urinating, and defecating are possible but not necessarily present.
- Postictal State: The postictal state occurs just after the seizure. Temporary paralysis and extreme confusion and orientation are expected in this phase. Cat owners often say it seemed like their cats lost their vision.
During seizures, pet owners need to ensure their cats do not hit the head from the floor or other hard surfaces. Also, if the episode lasts more than five minutes, it is critical to seek immediate veterinary attention as there is a significant risk of permanent brain damage and death.
