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Side effects of Hemps in horse food eg COLIC. Warning of the U.S. FDA (Food and Drug Administration) and AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control
Hemp (Cannabis sativa) and its derivatives, including hempseed, hempseed oil, and cannabidiol (CBD), have been marketed for animal use, including horses, often as supplements for anxiety, inflammation, or general well-being. However, there are serious regulatory and safety considerations, especially under U.S. FDA (Food and Drug Administration) and AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) guidelines.
⚠️ FDA Warnings on Hemp in Animal Feed (including horses)
🔴 Regulatory Status (as of 2025)
- The FDA has not approved any hemp or CBD products for use in animal feed, including horses.
- Hemp is considered an unapproved feed ingredient for food-producing animals and performance animals (like horses).
- The use of hemp-derived products in feed is illegal in many U.S. states without specific authorization.
- FDA is concerned about the safety and efficacy of such ingredients, especially for animals consumed by humans (like livestock) or involved in competitions (horses).
🧪 Potential Side Effects of Hemp in Horses
- Sedation and Lethargy Horses may appear drowsy, sluggish, or less responsive, especially with CBD-rich products.
- Gastrointestinal Distress Diarrhea, colic, or reduced appetite have been reported in some anecdotal cases.
- Altered Liver Enzymes Research in other animals shows that CBD may alter liver enzyme levels, which can affect how other drugs are metabolized.
- Behavioral Changes Possible effects include increased nervousness or excitability in some horses, contrary to calming effects expected.
- Interactions with Medications Hemp/CBD may interfere with NSAIDs, sedatives, or anti-inflammatory drugs, affecting dosing or side effects.
- THC Contamination Some hemp products may have traces of THC, leading to unwanted psychoactive effects or positive drug tests in competition horses.
🏇 Additional Concerns for Performance Horses
- Many equestrian sports ban CBD or THC under anti-doping regulations (e.g., FEI, USEF).
- A horse testing positive for cannabinoids could lead to disqualification, fines, or suspension of the rider/owner.
📜 FDA Official Statements
- The FDA has issued multiple warning letters to companies marketing hemp/CBD products for animals, stating:
“There is a lack of data on the safety and efficacy of CBD in animal species.”“We are especially concerned about the use of CBD in food-producing animals given the lack of data on safe residue levels.”
✅ Recommendations
Stakeholder Guidance
- Veterinarians Avoid recommending hemp/CBD unless under research/trial protocols.
- Horse Owners Do not feed unapproved hemp/CBD supplements to horses, especially if they are in competition or under veterinary treatment.
- Feed Manufacturers Hemp must be explicitly approved by AAFCO and FDA before inclusion in animal feed.
🛑 DEA’s Position on Hemp and CBD
🔹 2018 Farm Bill Impact
- The 2018 Farm Bill federally legalized hemp (Cannabis sativa with less than 0.3% THC) as an agricultural commodity.
- This removed low-THC hemp from the Controlled Substances Act (CSA).
- However, CBD and other hemp-derived compounds must still meet FDA approval to be used legally in animal feed or veterinary medicine.
⚖️ Controlled Substances Act (CSA) — DEA Enforcement
- THC (above 0.3%) remains a Schedule I controlled substance, tightly regulated by the DEA.
- Even trace THC contamination in hemp products could cause a positive drug test or violate DEA laws.
- The DEA can investigate and prosecute:
🚨 Summary of DEA Warning
“Any cannabinoid that is derived from marijuana or has more than 0.3% THC is a Schedule I substance, and its possession or use is illegal under federal law, including in animals.”
If you're feeding horses hemp or CBD products, make sure they are:
- Certified THC-free
- Not in violation of FDA feed laws
- Not exposing the animal to potential DEA or competition-related violations
Is HEMP listed in the DANGEROUS DRUG ACT of Mauritius ?
Indian hemp is listed in Schedule I of the Act, along with other controlled substances, making it illegal to import, possess, cultivate, or distribute
Dangerous Drugs Act Act 41 of 2000 Cannabis (also named as Gandia or Indian Hemp)
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📚 References
- U.S. FDA. (2021–2025). Cannabis and Cannabis-Derived Compounds: Quality Considerations for Clinical Research.
- Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) Guidelines.
- National Animal Supplement Council (NASC).
- United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) Prohibited Substances List.
- American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Statements on Cannabis Use in Animals.
