Skip to content
Last updated: October 2026.
More and more Irish pet owners are asking about CBD for their dogs and cats. If you are one of them, you probably have plenty of questions: is it safe, what does the research say, how much should I give, and how do I choose a good product? This guide answers them honestly, in plain English.
The short answer
- Research on CBD in pets is growing but limited, especially in cats.
- Safety: studies in healthy dogs suggest CBD is generally well tolerated at moderate amounts, but vet advice matters.
- Only use a product made for pets, chosen by weight, with a lab report showing no THC.
- CBD is not a treatment for any condition and should never replace veterinary care.
What is CBD?
CBD (cannabidiol) is a natural compound from the hemp plant. It does not cause a high. Like people, dogs and cats have an endocannabinoid system, a network of receptors involved in many body processes, which is why researchers are interested in how CBD affects animals.
What does the research say?
Veterinary research on CBD has grown over the past decade. Studies in healthy dogs have looked at how CBD is absorbed and tolerated, and generally found it well tolerated at moderate amounts, although some dogs showed increases in liver enzymes, particularly at higher doses. A small number of studies have explored areas such as mobility in older dogs, seizures alongside standard medication, and behaviour, with mixed results.
Research in cats is much more limited, and cats appear to absorb and process CBD differently from dogs. Overall, the evidence is not strong enough to say CBD treats any condition in pets, and pet supplements cannot make that claim.
Is CBD safe for dogs and cats?
For most healthy pets, a pet-specific CBD product at a sensible amount appears to be well tolerated. The main safety points are:
- Talk to your vet first, especially if your pet takes medication, has liver disease, is pregnant, or is very young or old.
- No THC. THC can be toxic to pets. The lab report should show it is not detected.
- No human products. Ingredients such as xylitol and some essential oils are dangerous to pets.
- Start low and increase slowly, if at all.
- Watch for side effects such as drowsiness, wobbliness, drooling or loose stools.
Choosing the right strength
| Pet weight | Our pet oil | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 35kg (most cats and small to medium dogs) | CBD Oil for Dogs & Cats 5% (500mg) | €32.99 |
| 35 to 55kg (big dogs) | Pet CBD Oil 10% Big Dog | €59.99 |
| Over 55kg (giant breeds) | CBD Oil for Pets 20% XXL (2000mg) | €99.95 |
Prices at the time of writing. Choosing by weight means the drops are a sensible size for your pet, so you can make small adjustments easily.
How to give CBD oil to your pet
- Shake the bottle well.
- Start with a small number of drops, as advised on the label or by your vet.
- Add the drops to a small portion of food or a treat, rather than squirting into the mouth.
- Give it at the same time each day.
- Keep a simple diary for two to four weeks: appetite, energy, sleep, behaviour and any side effects.
- Store the bottle out of reach of pets and children.
Why do owners use CBD for pets?
Owners we speak to often include pet CBD as part of a daily routine for older dogs, during stressful times such as fireworks season, or simply as part of their pet’s general care. These are owners’ reasons, not proven benefits, and any health concern should be discussed with your vet. You may find our guides to dogs, fireworks and Halloween and dog barking helpful.
CBD for cats: extra care needed
Cats are particularly sensitive to many substances, including some essential oils and medicines that are safe for dogs. Only use a product labelled for cats, start with a very small amount, and speak to your vet first. Read CBD for cats with IBD for more on cats.
Older dogs and CBD
Older dogs are often the reason owners first look at CBD. If your dog is slowing down, stiff in the mornings or sleeping more, book a vet check first: arthritis, dental pain, thyroid problems and other conditions are common in older dogs and very treatable. Gentle, regular exercise, keeping a healthy weight, non-slip rugs on slippery floors, a supportive bed and ramps for steps can all make a big difference. If you and your vet decide to add a pet CBD oil to your dog’s routine, keep their other care going and keep a diary of how they get on.
Questions to ask your vet
- Is CBD suitable for my pet, given their age, health and medicines?
- Could it interact with anything they take?
- What amount should I start with, and when should I review it?
- What signs should make me stop?
- Are there other options I should consider first?
How long does a bottle last?
It depends on your pet’s size and the amount you give. For a medium-sized dog on a modest daily amount of our 5% oil, a 10ml bottle typically lasts several weeks. Choosing the strength that matches your pet’s weight helps the bottle last, because you need fewer drops.
How to choose a good pet CBD product
- Made specifically for pets, with clear dosing by weight
- CBD content in mg per bottle and per drop
- An independent lab report showing CBD content and no detectable THC
- No xylitol, essential oils or unnecessary additives
- A real company with contact details
- No claims to treat or cure illness
Signs to stop and call your vet
- vomiting or diarrhoea that does not settle
- marked drowsiness, wobbliness or confusion
- drooling or dribbling urine
- loss of appetite
- any sudden change in behaviour
Browse our full range of CBD oils for pets.
Frequently asked questions
Is CBD oil safe for pets?
Studies in healthy dogs suggest CBD is generally well tolerated at moderate amounts, with some dogs showing changes in liver enzymes at higher doses. Research in cats is more limited. Always speak to your vet first and only use a product made for pets.
What strength of CBD oil should I give my dog?
Choose by weight. Our 5% oil is for dogs and cats up to 35kg, our 10% Big Dog oil for 35 to 55kg, and our 20% XXL oil for dogs over 55kg. Start with a low amount and follow your vet’s advice.
Can I give my pet human CBD oil?
No. Human products may contain flavourings, essential oils or sweeteners such as xylitol that are toxic to pets, and the strengths are not designed for animals.
Is THC dangerous for pets?
Yes. THC can be toxic to dogs and cats, causing wobbliness, drooling, urine leakage and lethargy. Contact your vet straight away if your pet may have eaten a cannabis product.
How do I give CBD oil to my pet?
Add the drops to a small amount of food, or offer it on a treat. Some dogs will take it straight from a spoon. Never force a dropper into a pet’s mouth.
Can CBD interact with my pet’s medication?
It may. CBD is processed by the liver and can affect how some medicines work, including some used for seizures. Always tell your vet about any supplement.
How long does CBD take to work in dogs?
Given with food, most owners give it at the same time each day and judge it over a couple of weeks, keeping a simple diary of any changes.
Can I use CBD for my rabbit or horse?
Our pet oils are made for dogs and cats. For other animals, speak to your vet, as they have very different needs.
What side effects should I watch for?
Drowsiness, wobbliness, loose stools, drooling or changes in appetite. If you notice any, stop and speak to your vet.
Do you need a prescription for pet CBD?
Our pet oils are sold as supplements. Your vet is the best person to advise whether CBD is suitable for your pet.
Can puppies or kittens have CBD?
Very young animals are more sensitive. Do not give CBD to puppies or kittens unless your vet specifically advises it.
Is pet CBD legal in Ireland?
Pet CBD products are widely sold in Ireland. As with human products, any product containing THC is treated as a controlled drug. Check the lab report.
Can I give CBD to a pregnant or nursing pet?
No, unless your vet specifically advises it. There is no safety data for pregnant or nursing animals.
Should I give CBD every day or only when needed?
Many owners give it daily at the same time, which makes it easier to judge. Your vet can advise what suits your pet.
Disclaimer: This article is general information and not veterinary advice. CBD pet products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Always consult your vet before giving your pet any supplement, especially if they have a medical condition or take medication.
