Providing veterinarians with up-to-date scientific and regulatory information about cannabis-related products for animals is central to a new resource from the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA).

“Veterinarians face a wide variety of challenges and questions when it comes to cannabis and pets,” says the association’s present, Douglas Kratt, DVM. “A clinician may need to treat a dog who has ingested marijuana intended for its owner’s recreational use, or answer questions from clients about the legality, safety, and effectiveness of cannabis-derived products marketed for use in companion animals.

Titled, “Cannabis in Veterinary Medicine,” the resource includes:

• an introduction to the endogenous endocannabinoid system;
• a synopsis of manufacturing quality;
• a review of animal clinical studies exploring efficacy and safety;
• information about potential adverse effects (including data around exposures and toxicoses from poison control centers); and
• a description of the current regulatory landscape.

“This resource guide, compiled by experts from within veterinary medicine and outside of it, will help clinicians get the answers they need,” Dr. Kratt says.

“The use of CBD-rich hemp and other cannabinoids is exploding with little evidence for efficacy or even whether your dog or cat absorbs these interesting molecules,” adds Joe Wakshlag, DVM, PhD, who explored the potential for cannabis as a veterinary therapeutic at AVMA’s recent virtual convention.

Association members can access the resource here.