CBD Oil vs Chews For Cats: Differences & Effectiveness

CBD Oil vs Chews For Cats: Differences & Effectiveness
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Key Takeaways

  • CBD oil gives you more control over dosing and kicks in faster, making it perfect for cats that need a little extra, tailored support. Chews are easy to serve and often include bonus calming ingredients like chamomile and ginger.
  • Oils work quickly when given under the tongue, usually within 30–45 minutes. Chews take a bit longer to take effect since they need to go through digestion, but they offer a slower, steadier release.
  • If your cat needs precise dosing, oil is your best bet. Chews come in set amounts, which is great for simplicity but less flexible for customizing.
  • Most cats are more excited about chews thanks to their taste and treat-like feel. Oils might need a flavor boost or to be mixed into food to go down smoothly.
  • Bailey’s CBD has both options—high-quality full-spectrum oils and calming chews made just for cats. They’re made to support everything from healthier skin to better joint movement, and they come with trusted transparency and third-party testing.

Understanding CBD Products for Cats

If you’ve ever wished there was a simple way to help your cat feel a little more comfortable or relaxed, CBD might be worth exploring. It’s a natural compound from the hemp plant. It contains less than 0.3% THC, so it won’t get your cat “high.”

CBD for cats usually comes in two easy-to-use forms. Oils are liquid drops you can give directly or mix into their food, which is great if you need to fine-tune the dose. Chews are like tasty little treats with built-in benefits, and many cats love them right off the bat. Some even include bonus ingredients like chamomile or ginger for extra wellness points.

So, if you're dealing with a nervous kitty, one needing healthier skin and shinier coat, or just want to support their overall comfort, both options offer a gentle, natural way to help.

Bailey's CBD: Natural Support for Your Pet's Wellness

Veterinarian-Formulated | USDA Organic Hemp | Lab-Tested

 

Tailored Wellness Options:

  • Calming Support Chews & Oil: Peanut butter-flavored soft chews that promote calmness during thunderstorms, travel, or separation – without causing drowsiness.
  • Hip & Joint Formula: Support your aging or active pet's mobility with our grain-free formula combining full-spectrum hemp extract with joint-supporting ingredients.
  • "No More Itchies" Probiotic Chews: Bacon-flavored soft chews that help maintain healthy skin and digestive balance for pets with seasonal sensitivities.

Why Pet Parents Choose Bailey's:

✓ Single-source USDA organic hemp from Boulder, CO
✓ Subcritical CO2 extraction for cleaner, high-quality CBD
✓ Full-spectrum formula (not isolate) for enhanced effectiveness
✓ Non-psychoactive (<0.3% THC)
✓ Backed by Dr. Robert J. Silver, DVM
✓ Third-party lab tested for heavy metals and pesticides (QR code on each package)
✓ Free from fillers, chemicals, and harmful additives
✓ Licensed by the Department of Health for added oversight
✓ 4.5 TrustScore from 1,533+ verified reviews on Trustpilot

Find Your Pet's Perfect Formula:

We offer multiple potencies for different sizes and needs – from tiny companions to gentle giants – ensuring the right support for every furry family member. Your satisfaction and your pet's wellness are our priority.

SHOP BAILEY'S CBD COLLECTION →

Key Differences Between CBD Oil & CBD Chews

Composition & Ingredients

CBD oil is all about simplicity. It’s mostly pure CBD mixed with a carrier oil like MCT or hempseed oil, and sometimes with a splash of natural flavoring to make it more cat-friendly. 

Chews are little wellness bites. Along with CBD, they often pack in helpful extras like chamomile for calm, ginger for digestion, and thiamine for muscle and nerve function.

Administration & Convenience

Oils let you fine-tune the dose to match your cat’s specific needs. You can give it straight under the tongue for faster effects or mix it into food. 

Chews are the easygoing option because you can just offer one like a treat. They're pre-dosed and tasty, which makes life simpler if your cat’s picky.

Absorption and Onset of Effects

CBD oil works quicker, especially when given under the tongue, usually within 30 to 45 minutes. That’s handy for stress or sudden flare-ups. 

Chews take longer since they have to be digested first, but their effects tend to last steadily over time.

Dosage Flexibility and Control

Oils give you total control. You can start small, go slow, and adjust as needed, making it perfect for cats who need a customized dose. 

Chews are pre-measured, which makes life easier but not as flexible. If your cat needs something in between, you might need to split a chew or combine it with oil.

CBD oil provides precise dosage control for your cat, allowing you to tailor the amount based on their needs, while chews offer convenience with pre-measured doses.

Palatability & Acceptance

Let’s face it, some cats are picky. Oils can be hit or miss, depending on your cat’s taste buds. Even flavored ones might get the cold shoulder from your cats! 

Chews, though, are usually a win. They’re soft, tasty, and way more likely to be gobbled up without drama.

Additional Nutritional & Supportive Benefits

Oils focus on delivering CBD, sometimes with a nutrient-rich carrier oil. 

Chews are a little more well-rounded. Many include herbs or extras that help with digestion, stress, or skin comfort, so they can do more than just deliver CBD.

Shelf Life & Storage

Oils are a bit fussy because they must be stored in cool, dark spots and can go bad if left out too long. 

Chews are easier to store, travel-friendly, and tend to stay fresh longer, making them a great option if you’re on the move.

Safety & Side Effects

CBD is generally pretty gentle on cats, but like with anything new, it’s best to take it slow. Some kitties might drool a bit, pace, or act a little weird after their first dose, especially if it’s too much too soon. 

That’s why starting low and watching closely is the way to go. If something doesn’t sit right or your cat’s on other meds, a quick chat with your vet can help steer things in the right direction.

Synergistic Use of Oil & Chews

Oil or chews? Why not both! Many cat parents find that using CBD oil for fast-acting support and chews for long-lasting calm makes the perfect combo. 

Oils are great for fine-tuning the dose, while chews come with bonus soothing ingredients, and they’re super easy to sneak into a treat-loving cat’s routine.

How to Choose Based on Your Cat's Personality

For Picky Eaters

If your cat is the type to sniff and walk away, CBD chews with flavors like chicken and cheese might win them over. Offering them before mealtime, when your cat’s a little hungry, can boost your odds too. 

Still getting the cold shoulder? Try crumbling the chew into a spoonful of something extra tasty, like tuna or soft food. Some cats also prefer flavored oils made just for feline taste buds.

CBD chews in flavors like chicken or cheese can be a great way to entice your picky cat, or mix them with something extra tasty like tuna or soft food.

For Skittish or Difficult-to-Handle Cats

Got a cat who turns into a ninja when you bring out the dropper? Chews are the easiest route—just drop one in their food and walk away. 

If oil is necessary for quicker relief but they hate being handled, try dabbing it on their paw or ear flap. They’ll do the rest (with a little grooming help), no wrestling match required.

For Cats with Sensitive Stomachs

If your cat has a touchy tummy, keep it simple. CBD oils with minimal ingredients, like just CBD and MCT oil, are usually the safest bet. They’re easier to digest and less likely to upset the system. Start with a tiny dose and build slowly so their belly stays happy.

Making the Best Choice for Your Cat with Bailey’s CBD

Supporting your cat’s well-being should feel simple, safe, and natural. Bailey’s CBD makes that possible with products trusted by pet parents for over nine years. Built on education and consistent quality, we’re here to make wellness simple, natural, and gentle for your feline friend.

Our CBD is made using subcritical CO₂ extraction, a gentle method that preserves all the good stuff from the single-source, USDA organic hemp while avoiding harsh solvents. We work with a unique lab in Boulder, Colorado, known for its expertise, to ensure every batch is pure and packed with beneficial compounds.

Bailey’s CBD soft chews provide a tasty, natural way to support your cat’s calmness and well-being, with the added benefits of antioxidants and digestive support.

Everything is tested by third-party labs to check for heavy metals, pesticides, and contaminants. We also hold a Department of Health license, which means we meet high safety standards that most other brands don’t.

For cats, we’ve created two go-to options. Our CBD oil blends full-spectrum hemp extract with calming botanicals like chamomile and L-theanine. It’s perfect for easing stress, providing comfort, and keeping things balanced. If your cat prefers a tasty treat, our soft chews offer the same natural support with added digestive and antioxidant benefits with ingredients like ginger, thiamine, and ashwagandha.

Both options are easy to use. The oil is great for precise dosing, while the chews are convenient and well-loved by picky eaters. And everything we make is human-grade, soy-free, grain-free, and GMO-free, perfect for cats.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I give my cat CBD oil and chews on the same day?

Yes, and many pet parents do! You might use oil in the morning for quick relief and a chew later to keep things steady. Just make sure you’re not going over your cat’s total daily dose and split it between the two.

How long does it take to see results from CBD in cats?

It depends. For things like restlessness, you might notice a difference in 30–60 minutes. For ongoing issues like joint discomfort or digestion, it could take a week or two of regular use.

Will CBD make my cat feel "high"?

Nope. Quality CBD won’t get your cat high. It’s made from hemp and has little to no THC, and can help your cat stay calm and comfy without any weird behavior.

Should I consult my vet before giving my cat CBD products?

Yes, especially if your cat’s on medication or has health issues. Your vet can help with safe dosing and make sure CBD is the right fit for your cat’s needs.

What types of CBD products does Bailey’s CBD offer for cats?

Bailey’s CBD makes full-spectrum CBD oils and tasty chews with extras like chamomile and ginger, which are great to support calmness, digestion, movement, or just everyday wellness.


These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

These products have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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