The endogenous Communication System (eCS) including the endocannabinoid system is a master regulator of homeostasis in mammals. Homeostasis is the process of maintaining balance in the body and brain. You can think of the eCS as a thermostat, regulating this dynamic balance to keep the body and mind healthy.

When the eCS is working properly, the body’s systems are in balance, and the mammal is well. However, as we age and experience oxidative stress, the eCS can weaken, leading to a loss of homeostasis and the development of illness.

 The Role of the Immune System

The immune system is responsible for protecting the body from foreign invaders, like bacteria and viruses, as well as harmful cells within the body, like cancer cells. When the eCS is not functioning well, the immune system can become imbalanced, leading to chronic inflammation.

Inflammation is a natural response to help the body fight off threats, but in extreme cases, it can spiral out of control and cause serious conditions like sepsis. If the debris from destroyed infections is not properly cleared, it can lead to low-grade inflammation, which can contribute to various age-related diseases.

Autocoids (including natural PEA) and The eCS

Endocannabinoids are compounds that help regulate the signaling in the eCS, keeping it in balance. While we often associate cannabinoids with the cannabis plant, the mammalian eCS was actually discovered first, and that it produces its own natural endocannabinoids.

One such endocannabinoid is Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), which can also be found in other foods and plants, but not in cannabis. PEA can help maintain a robust eCS tone, which is important for overall health and wellness.

Caring for Your Pet’s eCS

The eCS plays a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis in all mammals, including our pets. As our pets age, their eCS can also weaken, leading to various health issues.

Look for pet supplements that contain natural compounds like PEA, which can help support a healthy eCS without the risks associated with unregulated cannabis products such as CBD oil. These products are unregulated and may not be tested as often or as thoroughly for contaminants like heavy metals, pesticides, or even salmonella, as FDA requires regulated products. As always, consult with your veterinarian to ensure you’re providing the best care for your furry friend.

 The existence and functionality of the eCS explains its beneficial effect in helping to maintain homeostasis.

Pet homeostasis benefit’s closely resemble that of their humans. Animal benefits depend on many additional factors including product formulation, dosage, animal size, metabolism, etc. Benefits are related to breed diversity, eCS density and eCS tone, distribution among species members, etc.

Because many natural compounds have been studied widely and these results have implications for all natural chemicals such as terpenes and flavonoids, PMI has reviewed the key studies reported in peer reviewed scientific literature (see the Research and Resources page).

Clarifying the Narrative on Pet Autocoids

The Endogenous Communication System (eCS) in Pets

• All mammals, including pets like dogs, cats, and horses, have an endogenous communication system signaling far from homeostasis conditions including the endocannabinoid system (eCS).
• This means that autocoids, the natural signaling molecules in the eCS, can potentially help pets just as they can help humans.

Using Autocoids for Pets

• Pet owners have been using plant-based autocoid analogs to help their dogs, cats, and horses since before 1996.
• The benefits for pets can depend on factors like dosage, animal size, metabolism, and the severity of the condition being treated.

Differences Between Species

• There are some differences in how the eCS works between species, like the location of autocoid receptors.
• For example, in the human brain, the CB1 receptor is low in areas controlling vital functions like breathing and heartbeat, which is why it’s hard to overdose on cannabinoids.
• This is not the case for canines, so no amount of THC, or any of the so-called Delta 8 or Delta 9 CBD products is advised for dogs, cats or horses.

Autocoids and the Immune System

• Autocoids can interact with receptors inside cells to influence mechanisms that control cancer growth in all mammals.
• This is an important area of research, especially for canine cancers, which account for 25% of all canine deaths, often in the later years of life.

Authenticated Pet Autocoid Products

• When using autocoid products for pets, it’s important to ensure they are authenticated and have the proper identity and purity.
• Products containing PalmitoylEthanolAmide (PEA) can help maintain a robust eCS tone and support overall pet health.

The key takeaway is that the eCS is present in all mammals, so autocoids like PEA can benefit pets. Authenticated, high-quality products are essential for using autocoids safely and effectively in pets.

Please consult the Pet Med Institute Resources & Research page for peer-reviewed science in authenticated eCS products in development for pets (and their humans).