For many pet owners, our pets are another treasured family member, and we want to care for their health just as carefully as we do our own. So with the booming popularity of CBD oil for humans, it’s not surprising that people want to give their pets CBD too.
But what’s the difference between pet CBD and human CBD? And is it safe to give human CBD to your pets?
While the primary active ingredient is the same in both human and pet CBD, there are some key differences between the two. That said, the benefits and uses of CBD may be the same for pets and humans alike.
The Basics: What Is CBD?
It may surprise you that CBD seems to interact similarly in human and pet bodies. To understand why, let’s start with the basics of what CBD is:
- CBD is an abbreviation for cannabidiol
- CBD comes from plants in the cannabis family
- Hemp-derived CBD doesn’t contain enough THC to create the high that’s usually associated with cannabis
CBD and other cannabinoids activate a network of cellular receptors in our bodies known as the endocannabinoid system, or ECS.
What’s remarkable is that all mammals have an endocannabinoid system. This means that CBD may create the same effects for our pets that it does in our own bodies.
What Does the ECS Do?
The ECS is involved with an astounding variety of functions in our bodies, including regulating sleep, mood, appetite, immune response, and neurological activities like learning and memory.2
When CBD binds to ECS receptors, it can affect our bodies in a variety of ways. This is why people turn to CBD for a range of health concerns like stress management, digestive issues, and discomfort.2
Pet CBD Vs. Human CBD: Similarities and Differences
Both pet CBD and human CBD are derived from the same natural source: the leaves, stems, and flowers of the hemp plant. The differences between products intended for pets and those made for humans are in the other ingredients added for flavor, texture, fragrance, and so on.
Can I Give My Pet Human CBD?
If CBD oil is the same no matter the product, why not give your pet the same CBD oil you use?
There are several important reasons to stick with human CBD products for you and pet CBD products for Fido. Let’s take a closer look:
