CBD vs Melatonin for Cats: What's Better for Sleep, Stress & More
Key Takeaways
- Things like itchy skin, stress, or achy joints can really mess with your cat’s mood and sleep, so calming support is needed.
- CBD works with your cat’s own system to help them chill out and maybe even sleep better, while melatonin steps in as a natural sleep hormone to set their bedtime clock straight.
- CBD can also help cats feel more comfortable. Melatonin’s great for sleep and light anxiety, but that’s about where it stops.
- Choosing between CBD and melatonin really comes down to your cat’s specific needs and how they respond to each one.
- Bailey’s CBD has your back (and your cat’s!) with vet-approved CBD goodies like calming chews, soothing oil, and even skin-friendly shampoo.
Why Cats Struggle with Sleep & Stress
Even though cats are famous for napping, many actually have trouble with sleep and stress. They usually sleep 12–16 hours a day in natural cycles, but things like aging, health issues, changes at home, or even artificial lighting can throw off their rhythm. Cats love routine, so even small changes can stress them out.
Common Signs Your Cat Isn't Sleeping Well
Cats don’t always show obvious signs when their sleep is off. You might notice more meowing at night, restlessness, or them sleeping too much during the day.
Some cats get hyper or grumpy, while others just seem tired and uninterested in play. Changes in where or how they sleep can also be a clue something’s wrong.
How Stress Affects Your Cat's Health
Stress isn’t just bad for your cat’s mood; it can hit their health too. Long-term stress weakens their immune system, making them prone to illness.
Overgrooming due to stress can cause bald spots or skin issues, and many stressed cats face tummy troubles like loss of appetite, vomiting, or diarrhea.
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:
✓ 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 →Understanding CBD & Melatonin
CBD comes from the hemp plant and works with your cat’s endocannabinoid system, which helps regulate mood, comfort, and sleep. It doesn’t get your cat “high,” but it does help them relax.
Melatonin, on the other hand, is a natural hormone that tells your cat’s body when it’s time to sleep, helping keep their sleep cycle on track.
How CBD Supports Cats
CBD is like a chill button for your cat’s nervous system. It helps them feel more relaxed, which can make it easier for them to drift off, especially if they’re feeling stressed.
Some pet parents notice their cats sleeping better over time, especially if the restlessness is tied to stress. Just keep in mind it’s not always instant, and it’s best to use CBD products made specifically for cats to get the right dose and results.
CBD works best when it’s part of a calm routine—this little ritual can help your cat unwind and settle in for deeper, more restful sleep.
How Melatonin Supports Cats
Melatonin is your cat’s natural sleep signal. It tells them when it’s bedtime, kind of like a built-in nightlight dimmer. It’s especially handy when things like schedule changes, bright lights, or new environments throw off their routine.
A little melatonin can help them feel calmer and keep their sleep more regular, all by syncing with what their body already wants to do: rest.
Comparing CBD & Melatonin for Cats
|
Aspect |
CBD |
Melatonin |
|
Primary Function |
Promotes relaxation and positive mood |
Regulates sleep-wake cycles |
|
Best For |
Stress-related restlessness, nervous behavior, mild discomfort |
Sleep cycle disruptions, environmental stress |
|
Onset of Effect |
May take time, progressive benefits |
Generally faster acting |
|
Safety |
Well-tolerated, requires proper dosing |
Natural hormone, generally safe |
|
Additional Benefits |
May improve comfort, mood, and overall wellness |
Helps reset internal clock |
When to Choose CBD or Melatonin
If your cat’s having trouble sleeping because they’re stressed, itchy, or just not moving around like they used to, CBD might be the way to go. It’s great for calming nerves and supports homeostasis so your cat can truly unwind.
On the other hand, if the problem seems to be a change in their routine, like a move or odd light cycles throwing them off, melatonin can help reset their internal clock and get their sleep schedule back on track.
Using CBD & Melatonin Together
Some products mix CBD and melatonin to offer the best of both worlds: CBD helps your cat relax, while melatonin gently nudges their body toward a restful rhythm. Together, they can be a powerful team for improving sleep quality and duration.
Best Forms for Fussy Cats: Oils, Treats, or Pills
For picky cats, CBD treats are often the easiest option because they're tasty and stress-free. If you’re using oil, try hiding it in a favorite treat or mixing it into a spoonful of strong-smelling wet food.
Melatonin can usually be tucked into treats or crushed and blended into food, and some cats do better with tiny pill forms or custom flavors from a compounding pharmacy.
Whatever your cat prefers, there's usually a creative way to sneak it in!
Getting supplements into a picky cat is all about strategy. Mixing CBD oil into a favorite bite or offering a tasty treat can make the whole process fuss-free.
Important Considerations
Before you try natural calming options for your cat, here are some key things to keep in mind:
- Only use products made for cats. What’s fine for you or your dog could be a no-go for your feline friend.
- Talk to your vet first before adding CBD, melatonin, or any supplement to your kitty’s routine.
- Think of these as wellness boosters, not cures. Your goal is to help your cat feel calm and cozy, not treat a medical issue.
How Bailey’s CBD Enhances Your Cat’s Comfort
Helping your cat feel calm, cozy, and cared for is what we’re all about at Bailey’s CBD. Stressful moments or restless nights? We've got gentle, natural solutions that actually work.
Our hemp extract is sourced from a single USDA organic farm located in Boulder, Colorado. The CBD is then extracted using a clean CO₂ method in a one-of-a-kind lab. It’s a precise process that keeps all the helpful compounds like terpenes and cannabinoids intact; no harsh solvents involved. We work with one trusted organic farm, so every batch is consistent, safe, and packed with the good stuff.
We're also fully licensed by the Department of Health, which is rare in this space. That means we stick to strict safety standards, unlike many other brands. And for added peace of mind, we run third-party lab tests on every batch and make the lab results easy to access.
Everything we make is designed with cats in mind:
- Our unflavored CBD Oil for Cats mixes effortlessly with food or can be given straight from the dropper. It comes with naturally occurring cbd, terpenes, and fractionated coconut oil that help the CBD to be absorbed better.
- The Calming CBD Cat Chews are a tasty option for stressful moments like vet visits or car rides. It’s packed with ingredients like 1.5mg CBD per chew, GABA, tyrosine, tryptophan, and many others.
- And our CBD Pet Shampoo helps nourish the skin and fur from the outside with powerful ingredients like 300MG CBD, organic aloe, provitamin B5, avocado oil, and colloidal oatmeal extract.
These tasty calming chews from Bailey’s make it easier to keep your cat relaxed and content.
Getting started is simple. Use the dosage chart based on your cat’s weight, keep an eye on how they respond, and adjust as needed. The routine is easy, and the results speak for themselves.
What makes us different is our commitment to doing things the right way for your cat, for you, and for peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does it take to see results from CBD or melatonin in cats?
Melatonin usually works pretty quickly, often within a night or two. CBD takes a bit more time to kick in, with noticeable changes in a few days and full effects often showing up after a couple of weeks.
Are there any cats that should not take CBD or melatonin?
Yes, cats with liver or kidney issues, or those who are pregnant or nursing, should steer clear unless your vet gives the green light. And if your cat’s on other meds, especially sedatives or blood pressure meds, check with your vet first.
Will CBD make my cat "high" or behave strangely?
Nope! Pet-safe CBD is non-psychoactive and has only <0.3% THC, so your cat won’t get high. If they do act weird, the product might not be what it claims; stop using it and talk to your vet.
Do I need a prescription from my vet for either supplement?
Not usually—most CBD and melatonin products for pets are sold over the counter. But it’s always best to check with your vet before starting anything new, just to be safe.
Can Bailey’s CBD products help with my cat’s skin or nervous behavior?
Yes! Bailey’s Calming CBD Cat Chews and CBD Pet Shampoo are designed to help soothe both stress and skin, making your cat feel calmer and more comfortable.
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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