Animals, like humans, have individual metabolic differences that can affect how they respond to CBD. If a particular animal does not seem to respond to CBD, there could be several metabolic and physiological reasons:
1. Differences in the Endocannabinoid System (ECS)
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Not all animals have the same ECS receptor density or function.
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Some species or individual animals may have fewer CB1 or CB2 receptors, making them less responsive to CBD.
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Certain animals (like insects) lack an ECS entirely and wouldn’t respond at all.
2. Fast Metabolism (Rapid Breakdown of CBD)
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Some animals metabolize CBD too quickly, reducing its effectiveness.
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This is especially common in animals with high liver enzyme activity (e.g., certain breeds of dogs or small mammals).
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In contrast, cats metabolize CBD slowly, which may require lower doses but longer durations for effects.
3. First-Pass Metabolism (Digestive Breakdown in the Liver)
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When CBD is ingested orally (treats, oils, capsules), the liver breaks it down before it enters the bloodstream. (Sticky Frog Wellness makes their products with Coconut Oil which goes directly to the bloodstream, not the liver)
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Some animals may metabolize CBD too efficiently, leaving little active CBD available.
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Sublingual absorption (under the tongue) or transdermal methods bypass the liver and may be more effective.
4. Species-Specific Enzyme Activity
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Different species have varying levels of cytochrome P450 (CYP) liver enzymes, which metabolize CBD.
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Dogs and horses metabolize CBD faster, requiring higher doses or more frequent administration.
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Cats metabolize CBD slower, meaning lower doses last longer.
5. Fat-Solubility & Storage in Fat Tissue
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CBD is fat-soluble, meaning it gets stored in fat cells.
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Animals with higher body fat percentages may absorb CBD into fat stores before it reaches circulation, making it less effective.
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This could mean delayed effects or reduced overall bioavailability.
6. Tolerance & Receptor Desensitization
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Some animals may have a natural resistance to cannabinoids, requiring higher doses to see effects.
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If used frequently, ECS receptors may become less sensitive over time, reducing CBD’s impact.
7. Poor Absorption or Wrong Administration Method
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Some animals might not absorb CBD well through the digestive tract.
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Topical CBD is usually only effective for localized issues, not systemic effects like anxiety or seizures.
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Low-quality CBD (containing little active CBD or poor bioavailability) may not work at all.
How to Improve CBD Effectiveness for Animals?
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Try different dosing methods (sublingual oils may work better than treats).
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Use full-spectrum or broad-spectrum CBD (not isolates, as other cannabinoids enhance effects).
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Adjust dosage based on species and size (cats need lower doses, dogs might need more frequent ones).
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Monitor liver enzyme levels if using CBD long-term, as metabolism can change over time.
