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BSAVA publishes new document on use of CBD oil in dogs and cats
"This document aims to provide a broad overview of the available evidence base and legal position in the UK for veterinary team members." - Caroline Kisielewicz, author.

Association outlines UK legal position and current scientific research

BSAVA has released a new scientific document for the veterinary profession on the use of cannabidiol (CBD) in companion animals.

The document has been published in response to an increased interest in the use of CBD to treat cats and dogs. It was written by members of the BSAVA Scientific Committee, alongside specialists in internal medicine and neurology.

Included in the document are details on the legal position regarding the use of CBD oil in companion animals in the UK, as well as the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of CBD in humans and dogs and an overview of current scientific research.

Author and BSAVA Scientific Committee member, Caroline Kisielewicz, said: “Information regarding the effects of cannabinoids on animals is predominantly at the stage of pre-clinical testing of individual substances in mice, rats and guinea pigs. There are limited clinical studies looking at the effects of CBD in dogs, and no reported studies in cats.

“There are many reports describing possible beneficial effects and therapeutic potential in humans, and subsequently pet owners may ask their vet about using cannabinoids to treat veterinary patients. This document aims to provide a broad overview of the available evidence base and legal position in the UK for veterinary team members.”

The Use of cannabidiol (CBD) in dogs and cats information document is available for free on the BSAVA website.

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Applications open for MMI research grants

News Story 1
 RCVS' Mind Matters Initiative (MMI) has launched round two of its veterinary mental health research grants.

Researchers have until 11.59pm on Wednesday, 28 May 2025 to apply for a grant for research which reflects MMI's 2025 focus areas.

Only one Impact Grant was awarded last year, and so this year there are two Discovery Grants and one Impact Grants available. Each Discovery Grant is worth £5,000 and the Impact Grant is worth £15,000.

For more information or to apply, email researchgrants@rcvs.org.uk to contact the MMI team.

 

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News Shorts
BBC Radio 4 documentary addresses corporate fees

BBC Radio 4's File on 4 Investigates has released a documentary exploring how corporate-owned veterinary practices may be inflating bills to increase profit.

Released on 15 April, 'What's Happening To Your Vet Bills?' revealed the policies which many corporate groups have in place to increase their profits. This included targets and upgrades which veterinary teams are tasked with meeting on a regular basis.

It also features Anrich Vets, an independently-owned practice based in Wigan. Following the case of Staffordshire terrier Benjy, who is diagnosed with a tumour, the documentary shares how the team were able to offer contextualised care and advice to make the procedure as affordable as possible for his owners.

The documentary can be heard on demand on BBC iPlayer.