In recent years, CBD oil has become a popular natural remedy for a variety of ailments in humans. In light of CBD’s success in treating people, pet owners have also become interested in its potential benefits for treating their furry friends.
Many brands now produce pet-specific CBD oil, but what exactly is the difference between these and the CBD meant for humans?
While there are many similarities between human and pet CBD oil, there are also some important differences to be aware of. This article will dive into these differences, as well as the pros and cons of using CBD oil for your pet.
What Is CBD Oil?
CBD (Cannabidiol) oil is a natural, non-psychoactive compound found in the hemp plant. CBD has been shown to offer a variety of health benefits, including reducing anxiety, relieving pain, and improving sleep. CBD oil is typically taken orally but can also be applied topically or inhaled.
CBD is made by extracting it from the cannabis plant (hemp). Cannabis plants contain more than 60 different cannabinoids, including CBD and THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol). CBD is made by isolating this compound from the other cannabinoids in the plant.
Unlike THC, CBD does not produce any psychotropic effects; it doesn’t get you high. CBD oil brands can contain small amounts of THC, but there are many available that don’t. Be sure to check the brand before you buy it.
Benefits of CBD Oil for Humans
CBD oil is a natural and effective treatment for a wide range of medical conditions. Research is underway to explore the many potential uses for CBD, but much has yet to be discovered. Currently, the majority of our understanding of CBD’s benefits is anecdotal.
These are the general use categories that describe issues CBD can be helpful with. More research is being done on CBD these days, and new and specific areas of use are coming to light as research and knowledge expand.
The Benefits of CBD Oil for Pets
The FDA has not yet approved the use of CBD or any other hemp-containing products in animals to treat any ailment. If you plan to administer CBD to your pet, you should consult with your veterinarian before doing so.
Interest is growing in the benefits of CBD for pets, and serious research is being conducted to discover uses and benefits for both dogs and cats. Pain, mobility, anxiety, and seizures are a few areas that are currently understood to have great potential when treated with CBD alongside proven medications for these conditions.
Is CBD Oil Safe for Pets?
The safety of CBD oil for pets is still being researched. Most studies suggest that it is safe, while other studies caution that more research is needed. The side effects of CBD oil are typically mild and may include drowsiness, dry mouth, and decreased appetite. As with any new medication, it is always best to consult with a veterinarian before giving CBD oil to your pet.
Initial studies have shown that some pets show an elevated liver value on their blood work called alkaline phosphatase (ALP) when taking regular doses of CBD. It is inclusive at this time if this has an impact on pet health, but if you are concerned, it is best to check first with a veterinary professional.
Pet vs Human CBD Oil
CBD is a natural compound found in hemp, so theoretically, there should be no major differences between pet and human CBD oil. However, there are a few key factors you need to be aware of when choosing a brand of CBD for your pet.
The Best Way for Your Pet to Take CBD Oil
CBD comes in many forms for pets, and new products are being offered on the market all the time. CBD oil is used directly by placing a recommended dose, a specific number of drops, under their tongue. CBD is also given to pets in the form of treats, either chewy treats, gummies, etc.
Pets are much more sensitive to the effects of CBD oil than humans, due to their smaller size overall. They may also metabolize CBD differently than humans do. For this reason, it is important to use caution in determining the correct dose for your pet.
The treats can be appealing and are formulated to deliver a specific dose of CBD to your pet. Nonetheless, the size of dogs or cats varies and it can be difficult to control how much CBD your pet ingests when eating these treats. The safest option is to dose the CBD oil directly to your pet, as you can control exactly how many drops they get and monitor the impact each dosage has on them.
Always make sure to follow the instructions given on the product’s packaging regarding how much and how often to give your pet CBD oil. Vets in some parts of the world may not be able to legally recommend CBD oil for pets but it is good to consult them about any new products you are giving to your furry friends.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are a few key differences between pet and human CBD oil:
Look for pet-specific brands of CBD rather than trying to give your pet human CBD oil. While the essence of CBD is the same, pet-focused brands ensure the safety of the extraction process and composition of CBD for your pet.
Featured Image Credit: Aedka Studio, Shutterstock
