Veterinary Cannabis: Diseases in Animals That Can Be Treated with the Plant

The use of medicinal cannabis in veterinary medicine is gaining traction in Brazil and around the world. According to veterinarian Carolina Mariga, the plant can be an important ally in the treatment of various diseases affecting dogs and cats, offering anti-inflammatory, analgesic, immunomodulatory, and behavioral benefits.

Among the main cases where cannabis may be indicated are inflammatory diseases, such as atopic dermatitis and other inflammatory conditions, in which CBD acts as a potent anti-inflammatory. In animals with gastrointestinal problems, the cannabinoid helps regulate appetite and control nausea, vomiting, and persistent diarrhea. THC also plays an important role, especially in cases of inappetence.

Another highlight is its use in osteoarthritis (OA), a degenerative condition that causes inflammatory, nociceptive, and neuropathic pain, impairing the animals' mobility. CBD acts with antioxidant and analgesic effects, while THC helps modulate pain.

Cannabis has also proven effective in behavioral problems, going beyond anxiety, and in autoimmune diseases, thanks to the immunomodulatory potential of CBD. In the specific case of cats, there are good results in managing urinary diseases, such as idiopathic cystitis associated with stress, with improved behavior and reduced recurrence.

In feline gingivostomatitis, a condition often linked to infections like FIV and FeLV, cannabinoids help control pain and inflammation, as well as stimulate appetite—a critical factor, as food loss in cats can be a clinical emergency.

Another promising area is the treatment of wounds in general, as cannabinoids reduce pain, itching, self-trauma, and accelerate healing.

For Carollina Mariga, cannabis opens new perspectives in veterinary medicine: 

“We are talking about a therapy that can improve the quality of life of animals on different fronts, from pain management to the regulation of the immune and behavioral systems.”