How to use the valuable properties of CBD for horse well-being?

We are paying more and more attention not only to our own health, but also to the well-being of our pets. For horse owners and caregivers, the health and comfort of these majestic animals are also becoming a priority. When looking for a holistic supplement that will comprehensively take care of the animal's well-being, it is worth stopping at CBD. It is a natural, safe, and above all, broad-spectrum substance, originating from nature. And nature gives us the best.

The influence of cannabidiol on the horse's body is becoming increasingly noticed and appreciated. Research and observations by practitioners show its positive impact on various aspects of the health and well-being of these animals.

CBD – a source of health

CBD, or cannabidiol, is an organic chemical compound, one of over 100 cannabinoids found in hemp - plants of the Cannabis sativa species. This active compound has documented research confirming its positive and therapeutic effects on the human and animal body, via the endocannabinoid system (ECS). CBD stimulates the ECS system and regulates the internal homeostasis of the entire body, helps fight pain, anxiety; has a strong anti-inflammatory effect, supports immunity, improves skin condition, regulates the functioning of internal systems and organs [1]

CBD for horses

Cannabidiol, just like in humans, can effectively support the mental and physical health of mounts, which – although they appear to be strong animals, are actually very delicate.

Horses suffer from numerous ailments, including joint diseases and the resulting chronic pain, including post-traumatic pain; respiratory diseases, such as recurrent obstructive pulmonary disease (RAO), skin allergies and digestive disorders. Finally, anxiety, skittishness and nervousness.

In veterinary medicine, the therapeutic use of cannabinoids is growing in the treatment of pets, dogs, cats, and horses - especially for degenerative joint pain.[2]

You can use natural compounds that will help reduce the effects of these ailments in your horse.

CBD: For Pain and Arthritis

Horses suffer from pain for a variety of reasons: injuries, muscle strains, arthritis, and other musculoskeletal problems. Studies have shown that CBD can be an effective pain reliever by acting on endocannabinoid receptors in the horse’s body. CBD has been found to reduce pain sensation and perception and may be effective in animals that are intolerant to NSAIDs or corticosteroids, for example.[3]

Research also confirms the effectiveness of CBD in animals struggling with arthritis and chronic pain.[4] This is a common condition among horses that take part in competitions and intensive training.

CBD for calming down

Horses, especially young ones, can be anxious and skittish, have problems with hyperactivity, and are easily stressed, which can be caused by almost anything: noise, transport, separation from the herd or new surroundings. CBD is an excellent aid in calming down such states, and this has been documented in studies. Cannabidiol has a strong effect and reduces the animals' reactivity to stress, lowering, among other things, cortisol levels. Animals subjected to tests using CBD were observed for their reactions to external stimuli, and their stride length and suspension and support phases were also measured. In animals receiving CBD supplements, reactivity to stimuli was reduced, while the suspension and support phase increased, which indicates a reduction in stressful behavior.[5]

CBD for allergies and indigestion

Cannabidiol can also help regulate the digestive and gastrointestinal system. It is helpful in conditions such as colic, Cushing's syndrome, and insulin resistance. It stimulates digestive receptors, eliminates inflammation, and regulates the entire digestive system.[6]. It also works well for horses with reduced appetite.

In the case of skin ailments, cannabidiol has strong anti-inflammatory and soothing effects, as well as antibacterial and antifungal effects.

How to give CBD to horses?

Cannabidiol can be administered to animals in many forms:

• As an oil – administered directly or as an additive to feed
• Pellets from hemp inflorescence  
• Muesli
• Feed mixtures with added CBD
• Treats, licks
• In the form of gel, ointment, oil - for the skin

Summary

The use of cannabidiol (CBD) for the well-being of a horse can bring many benefits, both for its physical and mental health. CBD has enormous potential for use in relieving pain, reducing stress and anxiety, improving skin condition and strengthening the general well-being of the horse. It is a natural and completely safe substance that can be a valuable alternative to traditional methods of horse care and treatment, contributing to improving their quality of life.

CBD is a completely legal and permitted supplement for animals. However, when competing FEI(International Equestrian Federation)  and the US Equestrian Federation (USEF)United States Equestrian Federation) the use of cannabidiol is prohibited. It is recommended to stop taking the supplement 7 to 10 days before competition.

[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8223341/

[2] https://www.veterinarypracticenews.com/cbd-cbda-pharmacokinetics/

[3] https://vet-advantage.com/vet_advantage/cbd-and-horses/

[4] https://vet-advantage.com/vet_advantage/many-paths-to-chronic-equine-pain-management/

[5] https://zlotykon.pl/CBD-dla-koni-blog-pol-1635019612.html

[6] https://www.hjequine.com/blog/?45365/cbd-and-horses-digestive-systems