Potential Clinical Impact of Cannabidiol (CBD) in Canine and Feline Behavior: An Open-label Clinical Trial

Abstract

Objective: CBD is a phytocannabinoid compound derived from the cannabis plant and has been gaining attention as a potential anxiolytic, anti-panic, and analgesic without the psychoactive effects associated with tetrahydrocannabinol; however, these beneficial therapeutic effects have not yet been explored in dogs and cats. Design: We conducted an open-label study in eight dogs and four cats with each diagnostic symptom and investigated the efficacy, tolerability, and safety of CBD products for treatment. The efficacy of CBD in dogs and cats with problematic behaviors, such as conflict-related, fear-related, repetitive or self-injury behaviors, were assessed. Methods: CBD at 0.15–1.85 mg/kg/day was administered twice daily on an empty stomach with a small piece of food. Behavioral symptoms were measured before the first application (day 0) and after 2 (day 14), 4 (day 28), or 8 weeks (day 56) of regular administration. The efficacy was assessed using a behavior index and rating the degree of overall owner satisfaction and veterinarian observational results. Result: At the end of the study, among the twelve animals that continued to receive this supplement for 8 weeks, four cases were rated as considerably decreased and six were rated as decreased. Conclusion: CBD was used at a dose of 0.3–1.7 mg/kg/day in 8 dogs and 4 cats for 8 weeks, then behavioral changes were observed in 10 subjects. No serious adverse events were observed, and there were no notable problems in safety and tolerability.