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Humans have used kratom for centuries. This topical herb has won the hearts and minds of regular folks across the country. Even our furry, four-legged friends are now getting a taste of its benefits. But is kratom for cats safe?
Some pet owners are still skeptical of kratom’s safety and efficacy on their cats. This is due to the limited research on its effects on pets, particularly cats and dogs. However, numerous pet owners who’ve already tried it on their cats have nothing but good things to say.
But despite this reassurance, many cat owners are still skeptical about feeding kratom to their cats due to persistent skepticism from critics. Read on as we get to the root of the matter to give you factual, unbiased information so you can make the right decision for your cat.
Alkaloids and Cats
Like humans, cats have various in their brains. The alkaloids in kratom leave targets and stimulate certain receptors to produce varying effects based on dosage and kratom variant.
Kratom leaves contain 26 alkaloids. Of the 26, mitragynine and 7-hydroxy mitragynine offer the most notable and promising effects. These two alkaloids activate receptors in the brain, triggering the release of various chemicals such as dopamine, serotine, dynorphins, and endorphins. These chemicals can provide numerous benefits to your cat, including energizing effects and a general sense of well-being.
Most of the research on kratom done on rats and mice has proven that it has similar effects on most mammals. This means that you and your furry friend could experience similar effects from taking kratom.
Is Kratom Safe for Cats?
There is very little research on the effects of kratom on cats. However, a few kratom enthusiasts have already tried it on their pets. As a result, most of the information available is based on their observations.
Like humans, cats don’t respond very well when given kratom in high doses. They experience side effects similar to ours. But since they have much smaller bodies, the side effects are more intense.
What Is the Ideal Kratom Dosage for Cats?
When it comes to kratom, proper dosage is not just important; it’s a must, especially if you’re planning on giving it to your cat. The right dose can make your cat happier and livelier. But an overdose could leave your pet struggling with nasty side effects. And in the worst-case scenario, it can damage their liver and kidneys.
Since we don’t have proper kratom dosage information on cats, you’ll have to use the trial-and-error method till you get the dosage right. You should start with the lowest possible dose, then slowly work your way up as you gauge its effects on your cat.
While you’re at it, you should note that kratom takes about 10 to 15 minutes to kick in, and the effects might last for up to five hours. So if you plan on giving your feline friend multiple doses during the day, then you should first confirm that the effects of the previous dose have worn off.
Does Kratom Have Any Side Effects on Cats?
As we said earlier, there’s limited research on the effects of kratom on cats. That said, kratom seems to have similar effects on humans, dogs, rats, mice, and other mammals. When you factor in some of the observations made by pet owners who give their cats kratom, you end up with the following possible side effects:
- Sleepiness
- Confusion
- Itching
- Nausea and vomiting
- Tachycardia (increased heart rate)
- Kidney damage
- Liver damage
Is Kratom Addictive to Cats?
There’s little evidence to prove this, but based on its effects on other mammals, it’s safe to say that kratom might be addictive to cats. If your cat is addicted to kratom, it may experience withdrawal symptoms. These include irritability and abdominal discomfort when you stop giving kratom.
What Do Veterinarians Think of Cats Using Kratom?
The limited scientific studies conducted on kratom and its effects on cats have caused ripples in the veterinarian community. Some veterinarians support it, and others are against it. Those with clients who have already introduced their cats to kratom recommend introducing it gradually to observe how the animal will react to it. Like with humans, small doses generally induce good effects, with a minimal possibility of unwanted side effects.
That said, other veterinarians stand firm in their view that kratom is not safe for cats. They attribute this claim to the fact that there is no substantial proof of kratom’s therapeutic benefits on cats. Some also argue that kratom may potentially negatively affect cats, especially when taken in high doses. Another group of veterinarians emphasizes that kratom has therapeutic benefits worth exploring and should be given a chance to showcase its potential.
How Can You Get Your Cat to Love Kratom?
1. Mix It with Food
Kratom has a pretty bitter taste, and cats hate it. So convincing your cat to take kratom alone would take a great deal of time and effort. In fact, it might not even yield results. So, instead of forcing your cat to gobble down on something it hates, why not mix it up with something it loves? Cat-approved foods like fish and other meats and kibble work well for masking the flavor of kratom.
2. Rub It on Their Gums
If your cat needs the kratom urgently or is unable to eat it, rubbing kratom on its gums can present an effective solution to ingesting it. As an added advantage, the kratom is absorbed almost immediately into your cat’s bloodstream through the surface vessels. This method allows the kratom to reach your cat’s brain instantaneously.
The Bottom Line
There’s a lot of controversy about whether or not cats should take kratom. The contradictory information provided by pet owners and veterinarians makes it even harder to make the right decision.
The best thing to do is to consult a qualified veterinarian before giving your cat kratom. The veterinarian might advise you to quit the endeavor altogether or to start your cat off with the lowest possible dose.