If your cat gets stressed and you don't know what to do, it might be worth trying hemp oil. We break down the research behind hemp extract to help you determine if your cat may benefit from it.
Key Takeaways
- Hemp oil, or CBD oil, contains CBD, a cannabinoid naturally produced by the hemp plant.
- Some studies suggest CBD can promote relaxation in cats and help them cope with external stresses.
- Studies also suggest that CBD is well-tolerated by cats.
- Make sure to Buy Calming Products that are specifically made for cats and follow the dosage recommendation provided.
See More: Why Is My Dog Limping? What Should I Do?
Hemp Oil for Cats
Sean Zyer, founder of Earth Buddy, says:
"Hemp Oil, or CBD oil, is a fantastic option for promoting relaxation and helping your cat maintain a normal disposition."
Is your cat stressed? If so, they’re not alone.
It's actually fairly common for cats to experience stress. Experts estimate that about 20-25% of cats exhibit behaviors indicative of stress.¹
Of course, as pet parents, we want to support our furry friends. Hemp oil, or CBD oil, is one technique that can promote relaxation and help cats cope with external stresses.
What Is Hemp Extract?
Before we break down why that's the case, we need to distinguish exactly what we're talking about.
Hemp oil is a rather vague term. It refers to oil extracted from hemp plants. Hemp plants contain many potentially beneficial compounds, including cannabinoids.
One of the most widely used cannabinoids is cannabidiol, or CBD. It has plenty of potential benefits for humans, dogs, and cats.
This oil is usually called CBD oil, or hemp extract. If it contains the full range of compounds naturally produced by hemp, it's called full-spectrum hemp extract.
Hemp Seed Oil vs CBD Oil
Hemp seeds are also turned into oil. That's called hemp seed oil.
These seeds don't contain CBD. But they are packed with other potentially beneficial compounds, including crucial nutrients and minerals.
Potential Benefits of Hemp Seed Oil
For example, hemp seed oil is packed with essential fatty acids that are fantastic for supporting a pet's wellness.² The omega fatty acids present in hemp seeds can help cats achieve a soft, silky, shiny, and healthy coat.³
How CBD Oil Can Promote Relaxation
Of course, joint, skin, and coat health are all very important. But they don't necessarily have much to do with calming.
That's where CBD comes in. CBD is widely used to promote relaxation in both humans and dogs.
But did you know it might promote relaxation in cats, too?
The American Animal Hospital Association notes that "CBD is frequently used" to help cats cope with external stresses.
One common reason cats become stressed is when their human parents leave. One 2024 study gave CBD to cats, then instructed the cat owners to leave. The study concluded that CBD might help cats cope with the stress of being separated from their owner.⁴
A study from 2025 gave cats a Supplement Containing Both CBD and CBDa, another cannabinoid. 80% of cats given the supplement showed improvements in their "overall stress."⁵
Another study, from 2025, gave cats 8mg of CBD per kg of body weight. The study found that the CBD supplement promoted relaxation and enhanced "compliance."⁶
“Experts think CBD promotes relaxation by helping preserve the body’s endocannabinoids, natural signal molecules that work with the endocannabinoid system. CBD is effective at slowing down the destruction of these endocannabinoids,” explains veterinarian Dr. Casara Andre, in conversation with Earth Buddy founder Sean Zyer. “That's a really lovely way to support what the body's already trying to do."
CBD Dosage
Is hemp oil safe?
As you might notice from that last 2025 study, cats can tolerate relatively high doses of CBD. One study found that CBD is "well-tolerated by most cats."
However, you don't want to give your cat too much hemp oil. That can upset your cat's stomach. Make sure to follow the dosage recommendation included with your product.
For example, Earth Buddy's CBD Oil for Cats recommends giving about 1 mg to cats under 8 lbs, 1-1.5 mg to cats between 8-12 lbs, and 1.5-2 mg to cats over 12 lbs.
CBD Products for Cats
It's important to use CBD oil specifically for cats. In fact, all hemp oil products you give to your cat should be made specifically for cats.
That's because human products may contain ingredients that are dangerous for cats.
Make sure to pay close attention to your cat after introducing them to hemp oil or CBD oil. Ideally, you'll notice a positive shift in their behavior. If not, check with your veterinarian.
Bonus: How Long Do Cats Live? Here's What To Expect
Where to Get Calming Hemp Extract for Cats
When looking for the perfect calming supplement, it's important to get something high-quality. One way to check is by looking for evidence of third-party lab testing.
Earth Buddy tests its hemp products with a third-party lab for potency and purity. You can check the results of the tests by looking at the certificate of analysis for your product.
CBD oil is a popular choice. You can give it straight to your cat, mix it in with their food, or use it to make delicious calming treats. Earth Buddy's CBD Oil for Cats is made from hemp regeneratively grown in Colorado, combined with a premium carrier oil: organic MCT oil from coconuts.
Another great choice is a blend of CBD and CBDa. Earth Buddy's Balance Hemp Extract contains a tailored 1:1 blend of organic, full-spectrum CBD and CBDa oil to promote relaxation.
Sometimes you might need a quick and easy approach. For that, use Earth Buddy's Quick Calm. It uses a rapid delivery emulsion technology that's designed to work faster than oils.
Conclusion
Some studies suggest that hemp oil, or CBD oil, can promote relaxation in cats. That's distinct from hemp seed oil, which can be great for overall health but doesn't contain CBD and therefore may not promote relaxation in the same way.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Does Hemp Oil Do to Cats?
Hemp oil, or CBD oil, is used for various things, including promoting relaxation. Hemp seed oil is packed with nutrients that can support a healthy coat.
How Much Hemp Oil Can I Give My Cat?
Follow the dosage recommendation provided with your cat CBD product. The specific amount you give them depends on several important variables, including their body weight.
How Long Does It Take for CBD to Kick In In Cats?
That depends on the individual. In terms of promoting relaxation, it may take 30-60 minutes to kick in. Some products are specifically designed to be faster-acting than traditional CBD oils.
Keep Reading: How to Keep Your Dog Calm When Clipping Their Nails
–
Sources
- A Pet Owners Guide to Cat Anxiety: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention
- Hemp Seed Oil for Dogs and Cats | 12 Ways it WORKS | Cooper & Gracie
- Exploring Omega-3 Fatty Acid Benefits for Cats | Purina® CA
- Is cannabidiol (CBD) effective to ease separation anxiety? - PMC
- Effect of CBD/CBDA in Client-owned Cats on Urinary Behavior
- Evaluation of Cannabidiol Oil’s Effects on Sedation, Behavioral Responses to Handling, and Nociceptive Thresholds in Healthy Cats - PMC
–
Earth Buddy is an environmentally conscious and family-owned company dedicated to providing natural solutions for pets. From our CBD oils to our colostrum supplements, our products are designed to promote calmness and encourage relaxation for our furry friends. To learn more and stay connected, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Pinterest.
Comments (0)
There are no comments for this article. Be the first one to leave a message!