Dogs With Glaucoma: How CBD Can Help
Dogs may suffer from primary or secondary glaucoma. Both types create inflammation in the eyes and can cause pain, which often leads to a lower quality of life. CBD oil has anti-inflammatory properties that, when given to a dog, can ease the pain and other symptoms of glaucoma in the eyes.
Glaucoma is a serious eye disease that occurs in about 1.7% of dogs and can cause infection and blindness over time. Although all dogs can develop glaucoma, it is most common in beagles, cocker spaniels, Great Danes, Boston terriers, and several other breeds.
What Are the Symptoms of Glaucoma in a Dog?
If you suspect your dog may have glaucoma, there are symptoms to look for. They include:
- Bulging eyeballs
- Cloudy appearance in the eye
- Dilated pupils
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Swelling around the eye
- Vision loss
- Watery discharge from the eye
Your vet must diagnose glaucoma. He or she will measure the pressure in your dog’s eyes.
What Are the Causes of Glaucoma in a Dog?
There are two types of glaucoma in dogs and they have primary and secondary causes. Primary glaucoma occurs when the dog has inherited abnormalities in the eye’s drainage mechanism. Secondary glaucoma occurs when the eye has been injured or developed a disease. This may include damage to the eye’s lens, inflammation, tumors, or several other conditions.
What Is CBD Oil?
CBD oil is a compound derived from hemp or cannabis plants. Most CBD actually comes from hemp, which does not have THC. CBD oil works with the dog’s endocannabinoid system to provide relief from glaucoma symptoms.
What Is the Endocannabinoid System?
The Endocannabinoid System (ECS) is comprised of endogenous cannabinoids and their receptors, as well as metabolic enzymes. The system helps to create homeostatic balance in the dog’s immune and nervous systems. It is believed that a well-balanced ECS promotes sleep, regulates mood, improves memory, and more dogs. When diseases such as glaucoma come into play, the ECS loses balance and may cause pain, anxiety, sleep issues, poor appetite, and more.
What Are the Benefits of Using CBD For Treating a Dog’s Glaucoma?
Giving a dog that has glaucoma CBD oil can help in several ways. The oil interacts with the dog’s ECS to decrease intraocular pressure (IOP), which thereby reduces inflammation and leads to pain relief. A dog that is not in as much pain will sleep better, eat better, and generally have a better disposition.
As with any product you give your dog, talk to your veterinarian before providing CBD oil to your pet. This ensures he has the right dose and that there are no interactions with other medications.
