Cannabis Use in Veterinary Medicine: A Promising Approach for Dogs and Cats
In recent years, there has been growing interest in the use of cannabis in veterinary medicine. The endocannabinoid system (ECS), which regulates various physiological functions in animals, has been found to respond to the therapeutic properties of phytocannabinoids. In Argentina, the legalization of medical cannabis has opened up opportunities for studying the potential benefits of cannabinoids in treating animal conditions. In this article, we will explore the results of a survey conducted among Argentinian Cannabis Veterinarians to assess the current use of cannabinoids in veterinary medicine, with a focus on dogs and cats.
The Endocannabinoid System and Its Role in Veterinary Medicine
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is present in numerous animal species, including dogs and cats. Composed of endogenous ligands, receptors, and enzymes, the ECS regulates sleep, appetite, behavior, and various metabolic functions. Phytocannabinoids, derived from the cannabis plant, can interact with the ECS receptors and induce physiological effects in animals. Studies have shown that cannabinoids can help alleviate symptoms and modify subcellular mechanisms associated with different animal disorders.
Legal Challenges and Regulation of Cannabis Use in Veterinary Medicine
The use of cannabis and its derivatives in veterinary medicine is still a subject of legal debate in many countries. In the European Union (EU), there is currently no specific regulation for the use of cannabis in veterinary medicine. However, in some EU countries, veterinarians may use cannabis products authorized for human use “off-label” in animals. In the United States, medical and recreational cannabis is still illegal under federal law, making it challenging for veterinarians to prescribe cannabis for animals. However, they can provide guidance to pet owners considering its use. In Canada, cannabis for medical and recreational use was legalized in 2018, but veterinarians are still not allowed to prescribe it. The use of cannabis and its derivatives is strictly prohibited in Japan.
Benefits of Cannabinoids in Treating Dogs and Cats
Despite the legal challenges, there is growing evidence of the potential benefits of cannabinoids in treating dogs and cats. Studies have shown that cannabinoids can reduce anxiety and pain, improve mobility in animals with osteoarthritis, regulate appetite, control type 2 diabetes, and manage inflammatory conditions and epileptic episodes. For example, researchers in the United States have conducted studies on the use of CBD in dogs with osteoarthritis and refractory epilepsy, exploring different routes of administration and safety parameters. Surveys have also indicated that pet owners purchase cannabinoid extracts to alleviate symptoms associated with epilepsy, cancer, anxiety, and arthritis in their dogs and cats.
Survey on Cannabinoid Use in Argentina
In Argentina, the recent legalization of medical cannabis has opened up opportunities for studying the use of cannabinoids in veterinary medicine. To assess the current status of cannabinoid use in Argentina, a web-based survey was conducted among Argentinian Cannabis Veterinarians. The survey aimed to gather information on the number of veterinary professionals treating dogs and cats with cannabinoids, the types of conditions being treated, the chemotypes of cannabis extracts used, and the response to treatment.
Findings of the Survey
The survey revealed that the majority of professionals treating animals with cannabinoids were concentrated in the provinces of Buenos Aires and Santa Fe. Dogs accounted for 77% of the treated species, while cats accounted for 21%. The most prevalent conditions in dogs were pain, seizures, and behavior disorders, while cats were treated for a variety of conditions. Full-spectrum cannabis extracts derived from different chemotypes were administered to both dogs and cats, either alone or in combination with standard medication. The response to treatment varied among individuals, with different improvement grades observed in clinical signs.
Analysis of Treatment Outcomes
In dogs, pain was predominantly treated with chemotypes 1 and 2, which had a higher THC concentration or a balanced THC:CBD ratio, respectively. Behavioral disorders and seizures were mainly treated with chemotype 3, which had a higher CBD concentration. In cats, different chemotypes were used for various conditions. The doses of cannabinoids administered were adjusted throughout the treatment period, and improvement was assessed based on clinical signs and owner reports. The majority of dogs and cats showed mild to significant improvement in their clinical signs, indicating the potential efficacy of cannabinoid treatments.
Adverse Effects and Safety Considerations
Adverse effects reported in dogs included sedation and a paranoid state in a poly-medicated patient. These effects were reversed by adjusting the dose and providing a different preparation. In cats, the effects of cannabinoids are less well-studied, and further research is needed to evaluate their safety and efficacy in this species. It is also important to consider possible drug interactions and the individual characteristics of each patient when administering cannabinoids.
The Way Forward: Building Scientific Evidence
Based on the promising results of the survey, it is crucial to further develop scientific evidence on the use of cannabinoids in veterinary medicine. This includes expanding the training of professionals, obtaining quality preparations, initiating controlled trials, and documenting both beneficial and adverse effects. Education about the ECS and the medicinal properties of cannabinoids should also be provided to veterinarians to ensure their proper and informed use in clinical practice.
Conclusion
The results of the survey provide promising insights into the use of cannabinoids in veterinary medicine in Argentina. The use of phytocannabinoids has shown potential in alleviating pain, seizures, and behavior disorders in dogs and cats. However, further research is needed to build solid scientific evidence and ensure the safe and effective use of cannabinoids in veterinary practice. With the recent legalization of medical cannabis in Argentina, there is an opportunity to expand knowledge and provide adequate supervision to caregivers in cannabinoid-based treatments for animals.