CBD (cannabidiol) has gained tremendous popularity as a natural wellness solution for both humans and pets. As pet owners increasingly seek alternative approaches to support their cats’ comfort and wellbeing, CBD cat treats have emerged as a convenient and effective option. Surveys indicate that up to half of U.S. pet parents now use some form of CBD for their dogs or cats.
If you’re considering CBD treats to help ease your cat’s anxiety, stress, or joint discomfort, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know. From understanding how CBD works for cats to selecting the best products available, we’ll help you make informed decisions about your feline friend’s wellness routine.
Understanding CBD for Cats
CBD is a non-psychoactive compound derived from hemp plants that interacts with the endocannabinoid system present in all mammals, including cats. Unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD does not produce intoxicating effects, making it a safe option for pets when properly administered.
Common Uses for CBD in Cats:
- Anxiety and stress management
- Joint discomfort and mobility support
- General wellness and balance
- Sleep quality improvement
- Appetite support
- Behavioral issue management
Important Note: While many pet owners report positive results with CBD, scientific research on its effectiveness in pets is still developing. Always consult with your veterinarian before introducing CBD into your cat’s routine.
Top 6 CBD Cat Treats: Detailed Reviews
1. Medterra CBD Calming Pet Chews – Best Overall
Why It’s Our Top Pick: Medterra’s calming chews combine high-potency CBD with proven calming ingredients, backed by third-party testing and U.S. Hemp Authority certification.
Key Features:
- 10mg CBD per bacon-flavored strip
- Enhanced with valerian root and L-Tryptophan
- Suitable for both cats and dogs
- Third-party lab tested for purity
- U.S. Hemp Authority certified
- Made in the USA
Calming Formula: Beyond CBD, these chews contain valerian root (natural relaxation support) and L-Tryptophan (amino acid promoting calm behavior).
Pros:
- High CBD content (10mg per treat)
- Dual-species compatibility
- Appealing bacon flavor
- Additional calming ingredients
- Rigorous third-party testing
- Prestigious certification standards
Cons:
- May need splitting for smaller cats
- Texture might challenge senior cats with dental issues
Best For: Cat owners seeking premium CBD treats with proven additional calming compounds
2. Honest Paws Calm CBD Soft Chews – Best for Picky Eaters
Feline-Friendly Formula: These chicken-flavored soft chews are specifically designed to appeal to even the most discriminating cats.
Product Details:
- 2mg organic, full-spectrum CBD per treat
- Approximately 60 treats per container
- Enhanced with chamomile flower powder
- Includes passion flower for relaxation
- Third-party lab tested
- Non-GMO ingredients, no artificial flavors
Special Offer: 12% off one-time purchases, 25% off subscriptions with code VETSTREET25
Natural Ingredients: The formula combines CBD with chamomile (traditional calming herb) and passion flower (stress reduction support).
Pros:
- Irresistible chicken flavor
- Soft, easy-to-eat texture
- Organic, full-spectrum CBD
- Natural calming herb additions
- Rigorous quality testing
- Subscription savings available
Cons:
- Some cats may require crumbling into food
- Lower CBD content per treat
Best For: Finicky cats who typically refuse supplements or medications
3. HolistaPet CBD Cat Treats – Best All-Natural Formula
Pure Ingredient Focus: These salmon-flavored treats prioritize natural, wholesome ingredients without artificial additives.
Natural Composition:
- 2mg full-spectrum CBD per treat
- Salmon, chicken, potato starch, peas
- Brewer’s dried yeast for flavor
- Free from animal by-products and meals
- No corn, wheat, dairy, or artificial preservatives
- Lab tested for accuracy and potency
Storage Requirements: The preservative-free formula requires refrigeration and use within six months for optimal freshness.
Pros:
- 100% natural ingredient profile
- Delicious salmon flavor cats love
- Crunchy texture appeals to many cats
- No artificial colors or preservatives
- Rigorous third-party testing
Cons:
- Refrigeration required
- Six-month expiration timeline
- Limited flavor options
Best For: Health-conscious cat owners prioritizing natural, unprocessed ingredients
4. Penelope’s Bloom CBD Soft Chews – Best for Anxiety Support
Anxiety-Focused Formula: Specifically designed to address feline stress and anxiety with a comprehensive approach.
Stress-Relief Ingredients:
- 2mg broad-spectrum CBD per treat
- Salmon flavor for palatability
- Valerian root for natural calming
- L-Tryptophan for anxiety reduction
- Soft, chewable texture
- 75 treats per package
Broad-Spectrum Benefits: Uses CBD without THC while maintaining other beneficial hemp compounds for enhanced effectiveness.
Pros:
- Anxiety-specific formulation
- Appealing salmon taste
- Soft texture for easy consumption
- Proven calming ingredient additions
- Quality third-party testing
Cons:
- Dense consistency can be difficult to break
- Limited flavor variety
Best For: Cats experiencing stress, anxiety, or behavioral challenges
5. Suzie’s CBD Bites – Best Budget Option
Affordable Quality: These budget-friendly treats provide effective CBD support without breaking the bank.
Value Features:
- 0.5mg certified organic CBD per bite
- 80 treats per package
- Tuna and chicken flavor combination
- USDA-certified organic CBD
- Crumbly texture for food mixing
- Excellent price point
Flexible Administration: The crumbly consistency makes these treats perfect for mixing into regular food for cats who resist direct supplementation.
Pros:
- Exceptional value pricing
- USDA organic certification
- Appealing tuna-chicken flavor
- Easy food incorporation
- Large quantity per package
Cons:
- Lower CBD potency requires multiple treats
- Limited flavor options
Best For: Budget-conscious pet owners or cats requiring lower CBD doses
6. Treatibles Soft CBD Chewables – Best for Senior Cats
Senior-Friendly Design: Specially formulated for older cats with softer texture and additional health-supporting ingredients.
Age-Appropriate Features:
- 1.5mg CBD per soft chew
- Surf and turf flavor (pork and salmon)
- Gentle texture for sensitive teeth
- Enhanced with catnip leaf powder
- Includes turmeric, papain, and bromelain
- NASC quality seal certification
Holistic Health Support: Beyond CBD, these treats contain ingredients supporting joint health, immune function, and digestive wellness.
Pros:
- Senior-appropriate soft texture
- Delicious surf-and-turf flavor
- Comprehensive health ingredient profile
- NASC quality certification
- Free from contaminants and pesticides
- Case purchase options available
Cons:
- Larger cats may need multiple treats
- Higher per-treat cost
Best For: Senior cats with dental sensitivity or comprehensive wellness needs
Benefits of CBD Cat Treats vs. Oils
Convenience Advantages
Precise Dosing: Each treat contains a predetermined CBD amount, eliminating guesswork and ensuring consistent dosing.
Easy Administration: Most cats accept treats more readily than oils, reducing stress for both pets and owners.
Portability: Treats travel easily and don’t require refrigeration like some CBD oils.
Longer Shelf Life: Properly stored treats typically last longer than opened CBD oil bottles.
Palatability Benefits
Appealing Flavors: Treats come in cat-friendly flavors like chicken, salmon, and tuna.
Texture Variety: Soft chews accommodate senior cats, while crunchy options appeal to active cats.
No Taste Masking: Unlike oils that may require mixing with food, treats are inherently palatable.
CBD Cat Treats Buying Guide
Potency Considerations
CBD treats range from 0.5mg to 10mg per piece. Consider your cat’s size and needs:
Small Cats (under 10 lbs): 0.5-2mg per dose Medium Cats (10-15 lbs): 2-5mg per dose
Large Cats (over 15 lbs): 5-10mg per dose
Start with lower doses and gradually increase as needed under veterinary guidance.
Quality Testing Standards
Third-Party Lab Testing: Ensures product purity, potency, and safety. Look for easily accessible Certificates of Analysis (COAs).
Testing Categories:
- CBD content verification
- Pesticide screening
- Heavy metal detection
- Microbial contamination testing
- Residual solvent analysis
Texture and Flavor Options
Soft Chews: Ideal for senior cats or those with dental issues Crunchy Treats: Appeal to cats who enjoy textural variety Crumbly Options: Perfect for mixing with regular food
Popular Flavors:
- Chicken (most universally accepted)
- Salmon (high appeal for most cats)
- Tuna (strong flavor for picky eaters)
- Mixed protein options
Additional Ingredients
Calming Supplements:
- Valerian Root: Natural relaxation support
- L-Tryptophan: Amino acid promoting calm behavior
- Chamomile: Traditional calming herb
- Passion Flower: Stress reduction support
Health-Supporting Additions:
- Turmeric: Anti-inflammatory properties
- Probiotics: Digestive health support
- Omega fatty acids: Skin and coat health
Storage Requirements
Shelf-Stable Options: Most CBD treats store at room temperature in cool, dry places.
Refrigeration Required: Some natural, preservative-free products need refrigeration.
Expiration Awareness: CBD potency diminishes over time, so check expiration dates and use products within recommended timeframes.
Safety Guidelines for CBD Cat Treats
Veterinary Consultation
Always discuss CBD use with your veterinarian before starting any new supplement routine. This is especially important if your cat:
- Takes other medications
- Has existing health conditions
- Is pregnant or nursing
- Is under one year of age
Medication Interactions
CBD can interact with certain medications, particularly those processed through the same liver enzymes. Your veterinarian may recommend:
- More frequent blood work monitoring
- Dose adjustments for existing medications
- Alternative treatment approaches
Dosing Guidelines
Start Low: Begin with the smallest effective dose Go Slow: Gradually increase only if needed Monitor Response: Watch for both positive effects and any adverse reactions Maintain Consistency: Give treats at the same times daily for best results
Signs to Watch For
Positive Indicators:
- Reduced anxiety or stress behaviors
- Improved mobility in senior cats
- Better sleep patterns
- Increased appetite
- Overall calmer demeanor
Potential Concerns:
- Excessive sleepiness
- Loss of appetite
- Digestive upset
- Changes in behavior
If you notice any concerning symptoms, discontinue use and contact your veterinarian.
Legal Status and Regulations
The 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp-derived CBD products containing less than 0.3% THC, making CBD cat treats legal in the United States. However, the FDA hasn’t established specific regulations for pet CBD products, making quality testing and reputable manufacturers essential.
Key Legal Points:
- Hemp-derived CBD is federally legal
- State laws may vary
- FDA doesn’t regulate pet CBD products
- Quality control relies on manufacturer standards
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Do CBD Cat Treats Take to Work?
Most cats begin showing effects within 30-60 minutes of consumption, with peak effects occurring 2-4 hours after administration. Individual response times vary based on metabolism, size, and the specific concern being addressed.
Can Kittens Have CBD Treats?
CBD hasn’t been proven safe for pregnant animals or developing kittens. Always consult your veterinarian before giving CBD to cats under one year of age, as their systems are still developing.
How Often Should I Give CBD Treats?
Most products recommend once or twice daily administration. Follow manufacturer guidelines and veterinary recommendations for your specific cat’s needs.
Are There Side Effects?
While generally well-tolerated, potential side effects may include drowsiness, dry mouth, or digestive upset. These typically resolve with dosage adjustment.
Conclusion
CBD cat treats offer a convenient, palatable way to potentially support your cat’s wellness routine. From Medterra’s high-potency calming chews to Suzie’s budget-friendly options, there’s a product suitable for various needs and preferences.
Remember that CBD treats work best as part of a comprehensive wellness approach that includes proper veterinary care, quality nutrition, environmental enrichment, and stress management. While many pet owners report positive results, individual responses vary, and professional veterinary guidance ensures the safest, most effective use.
Start with high-quality, third-party tested products from reputable manufacturers. Begin with conservative doses, monitor your cat’s response carefully, and maintain open communication with your veterinary team. With the right approach, CBD cat treats may become a valuable tool in supporting your feline friend’s comfort and quality of life.
Whether you’re addressing specific concerns like anxiety or simply supporting general wellness, the key is finding products that match your cat’s individual needs while prioritizing safety and quality above all else.