International researchers from Italy and Brazil recently published a study in Veterinary and Animal Science, highlighting the successful use of CBD therapy in treating a Quarter horse with behavioral disorders. The study was a joint effort between the Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences at the University of Bologna, Italy, and the Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences at the University Metodista of São Paulo, Brazil.
The study focused on a 22-year-old mare suffering from chronic crib-biting and wind-sucking, common equine behavioral disorders often linked to poor welfare. The researchers explained that any deviation from natural conditions can lead to stereotypies, repetitive behaviors with no apparent function.
The mare had exhibited this behavior for 15 years, with previous treatments like cervical collars, environmental enhancements, diet changes, and chemical tranquilizers proving unsuccessful. The horse's background revealed that it had been a sport horse with intensive training before retirement at the age of 10, and the behavioral issues began around the age of 7, worsening over time.
The CBD treatment utilized a commercially available isolated CBD 200 mg/ml solution administered at a dose of 0.5 mg/kg/daily q12h orally, based on prior case reports and veterinary pharmacological studies. During treatment, the mare's diet and daily routine remained unchanged.
To evaluate the therapy's effectiveness, the veterinary team observed the mare for 7 days before treatment and throughout the treatment period. They recorded the number of hours spent engaging in stereotypic behavior and monitored the mare's weight weekly.
The study reported positive results after 30 days of CBD therapy, with no relapse in behavior observed by the owners post-treatment. According to the researchers, this case is the first documented instance of successful treatment and management of a chronic crib-biting, wind-sucking horse using oral CBD administration, ultimately improving the animal's welfare and quality of life.
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