Effective Pain Relief in Animals with Cannabis is Possible

The use of medicinal cannabis in veterinary medicine has gained prominence as a promising alternative in managing chronic and inflammatory pain in animals. According to veterinarian Neide Griebeler, cannabis has significantly contributed to improving the quality of life for dogs, cats, and other patients, especially when it comes to pain. "Pain from both direct nerve injury (neuropathic) and inflammatory reactions (nociceptive) can be treated with cannabis," says Griebeler.

In addition to pain reduction, signs of improvement in animals include expressive behavioral changes. Animals that previously avoided activities like jumping on or off furniture, playing, or interacting with family due to discomfort show greater willingness and well-being as pain decreases. "Animals in pain are often seen as stressed or aggressive, a behavior that also changes with the reduction of pain," highlights the specialist.

Scientific Evidence of CBD Use in Animals

Scientific evidence supporting the use of cannabidiol (CBD) in animals is accumulating. A recent study demonstrated that daily administration of CBD in dogs with osteoarthritis for four weeks modulates inflammatory cytokines, alleviates interleukin and tumor necrosis factor production, and increases levels of the anti-inflammatory cytokine interleukin. A dose of 20 mg/day of liposomal CBD proved effective without adverse effects on the evaluated hematological and biochemical parameters (Verrico, 2020).

Another study used a multimodal protocol that included administering CBD oil every 12 hours (dose of 2 mg/kg), resulting in a significant improvement in pain perception and quality of life in dogs with osteoarthritis. The results, measured by the Canine Brief Pain Inventory system, indicated that CBD enhanced pain relief without adverse effects (Brioschi, 2020).

Expansion of Research and Improvement of Clinical Practice

With the increase in research, clinical practice has advanced, providing greater safety in choosing doses and the composition of cannabis extracts. "We already have many studies with animal models, and research with dogs and cats has been growing, bringing more answers and safety to our work," reinforces Neide Griebeler.

Although more studies are still needed to understand the mechanisms of action of cannabis in various species, current results indicate that this approach is a useful tool in pain management, promoting the well-being of animals and the peace of mind of their owners.

4th Brazilian Congress on Medicinal Cannabis: VetCannabis Module

To deepen the debate and share the latest evidence and clinical practices, the 4th Brazilian Congress on Medicinal Cannabis will promote the VetCannabis module on the first day of the event, on May 22, 2025, at Expo Center Norte in São Paulo. The program will include lectures on the use of cannabis in veterinary routines, its potential in sectors such as poultry and swine production, as well as discussions on the authorization of veterinary use.