CBD for cats, also referred to as cat weed, is an up-and-coming product in the feline anxiety treatment market. It comes in a wide variety of forms from CBD oil to soft chews. However, CBD cat treats are perhaps one of the easiest forms to administer because, like most treats, cats love them!
Unlike normal treats, CBD cat treats contain cannabidiol which comes from the hemp plant. It can also be found in other Cannabaceae plants such as Marijuana. However, it’s most often derived from hemp because this plant contains less of a substance called tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). This causes the ‘high’ associated with cannabis. So, don’t worry, you won’t be making your cat feel high with CBD but it can alleviate a number of health issues and symptoms.
How We Choose
If we recommend a product it’s because we have done the research on it and we believe it has the ability to help you and your cat. In our research, some products have been tested directly by us, while others have been researched using other methods, including reviewing comments from users online to ensure we have provided good coverage of what is working well for cats. As a team of qualified veterinarians, animal welfare experts, and cat parents, you can be assured we only choose the best products.
Benefits of CBD Treats for Cats
CBD cat treats are a great way to relieve stress and cat anxiety in your feline companion. The compound cannabinoid works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain and by managing neurological receptors to reduce feelings of stress.
Short-term stress is completely normal. However, long-term stress and anxiety can lead to health issues and unwanted behavioral problems. As a naturally derived product, CBD can combat these effects and increase the overall health of your feline companion.
Other benefits of CBD treats include:
Promoting positive play – Cats that are suffering from stress can lose interest in play. Similarly, elderly cats with mobility issues may be reluctant to run around. Playing stimulates the natural hunting instinct of cats which is important for overall well-being. CBD cat treats can help to promote positive play and renew their energy.
CBD for cats can also help to alleviate painful joints associated with arthritis and other joint issues in older felines.
Reducing gastrointestinal discomfort – Studies have shown that CBD can support a healthy gastrointestinal tract in cats because of its ability to reduce inflammation. For the same reason, it can also reduce feelings of nausea.
Reducing the frequency and intensity of seizures – CBD can help with seizures in cats as it reacts with the endocannabinoid system. This is responsible for regulating body functions such as metabolism, appetite, and pain management. CBD can also boost the effects of traditional anti-seizure medication.
Increase appetite – If your cat is suffering from anxiety or is in constant pain, they are unlikely to want to eat. CBD cat treats can stimulate the appetite by reducing feelings of nausea, pain, and even depression.
In addition, CBD cat treats can work to soothe your cat during short-term stressful situations such as fireworks, travel, and moving house.
Now we know the benefits of CBD cat treats, let’s run through the best products on the market:
1. Best Overall: Holistapet CBD Cat Treats
Holistapet is the number one supplier of high-quality CBD cat treats. They are trusted by cat parents around the world. So, you know you are purchasing a good product if you buy from them.
Each Holistapet CBD Cat Treat contains 2 mg of broad-spectrum CBD to calm feline anxiety or other health problems such as thyroid issues. They have a tasty salmon flavor and are 100% grain-free, as well as being tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) free. They also contain other calming ingredients such as tryptophan and valerian root to aid restful sleep and promote relaxation.
The vet-approved Holistapet CBD Cat Treats come in tubs of 75 treats, totaling 150 mg of CBD. They also come in soft chews for older cats and those with dental problems.
Pros
- 100% grain and dairy free
- Contain 0% THC
- Tasty salmon flavor
Cons
- Expensive
- The flavor may be a bit strong for some cats
2. Best Value: Just CBD Pets Cat Treats
Just CBD Pets Cat Treats contain hemp-derived Cannabidiol. They also contain several essential vitamins and minerals to maintain overall health, including folic acid, vitamin K, and riboflavin.
Just CBD Pets Cat Treats come in a variety of flavors such as chicken, liver, and fish mix. So, they are bound to satisfy even the pickiest feline eaters! They come in 340g tubs which contain 100mg of CBD in total.
These treats are a great way to calm cats that suffer from separation anxiety or travel anxiety. They can also be mixed in with normal dry cat kibble for easier use.
Pros
- Variety of tasty flavors
- 100 mg of CBD per jar
- Good value for money
Cons
- May be too hard for cats with dental issues
- No official ‘Just Pets’ guidelines on dosage levels
3. Artullano Hemp Cat Calming Treats
Artullano Hemp Cat Calming Treats come in packs of 135 chews and are free from grains, wheat, and sugar. These treats are a great way to reduce short-term stress caused by loud noises, environmental changes, and traveling.
These soft treats are suitable for older cats and they also support bone, brain, and digestive health.
Pros
- Contain L-Theanine to aid relaxation
- Soft Chews suitable for older cats or those with dental problems
- Tasty chicken flavor
Cons
- Not all cats like the flavor
- Customers claim product lid can be faulty
4. Paw CBD Soft Chews for Cats
Paw CBD Soft Chews for Cats combine cannabidiol and catnip in one tasty, easy-to-eat treat to de-stress your kitty. They come in two different CBD strengths, 150mg per tub (1 mg per chew) and 300 mg (2 mg per chew).
These treats are flavored with natural chicken flavor and catnip, and they are completely THC-free.
Pros
- Lab-tested and GMP certified
- 0% THC
- Contain broad spectrum CBD
Cons
- Relatively expensive
- Might not work for all cats
5. R & R CBD Cat Chews
R & R CBD Cat Chews contain full spectrum CBD that equates to 1.5 mg per chew. They also come packed with natural protein sources from trout, duck, chicken, and turkey.
These treats offer a tasty way to help your cat find relief from stress. They are suitable for cats with dental problems and come in tubs of 100 treats.
1-2 servings of R & R CBD Cat Chews should be given to your cat daily. The most effective and consistent calming effects will be seen in around 5 days. Bear in mind that the website claims these treats contain no more than 0.3% THC.
Pros
- Contain natural protein sources
- Soft chews are palatable for cats with dental issues
Cons
- Expensive
- Hyperactivity can occur after first taking the product
Conclusion: Best CBD Calming Cat Treats
CBD cat treats are a great way to help your cat to deal with stress and anxiety, as well as a number of health issues, including arthritis. However, it’s important to remember that CBD should not be used as a substitute for veterinary care. If you are concerned about your cat’s health and well-being, it’s always best to speak to a vet for advice.
Our top pick for CBD cat treats is the Holistapet CBD Cat Treats because of the high level of cannabidiol in each treat as well as the addition of other calming ingredients like Valerian root. They are also completely grain and dairy free so they are perfect for cats with digestive issues or any sort of food intolerance.
Cats love their treats. So, what better way to improve your cat’s health and zest for life than with CBD cat treats?
Author
Carla Shaik, Chief Editor and Writer, BSC Animal Behavior and Welfare
Our resident animal welfare expert, Carla Shaik has always had a passion for writing and educating the public on topics that really matter, especially cat welfare. Since graduating with a BSC in Animal Behavior and Welfare, Carla has written for a national cat magazine for eight years and more recently branched out into becoming a freelance writer full-time. Carla is an avid cat lover and has owned cats all her life. She couldn’t imagine life without them.
