Is CBD Safe for Pets? What Every Pet Owner Should Know

If you have been hearing more about CBD for pets lately, you probably have a few questions. Is it safe? Will it make my pet feel “high”? How much should I give them? And how do I know which products I can actually trust?

Those are important questions. When it comes to your pet, you should know what you are giving them and what to look for when choosing a product.

What is CBD?

CBD, or cannabidiol, is a naturally occurring compound found in hemp. Unlike THC, CBD itself is not intoxicating, meaning it does not produce the “high” commonly associated with marijuana.

Hemp derived CBD products have become increasingly popular among pet owners looking to incorporate them into their pet’s everyday wellness routine. Research into CBD use in animals is still developing, so choosing a quality product and using it responsibly matters.

What should you look for in a CBD product for your pet?

Not all CBD products are created equally. Here are a few things we believe every pet owner should look for.

Know where the hemp comes from

Transparency matters. Look for brands that tell you where their hemp is grown and how their products are made.

At Oak & Paw Co., we use U.S. grown hemp and believe pet owners should be able to understand what is inside the products they are giving their pets.

Look for third party testing

Third party testing is one of the most important things to look for when shopping for pet wellness products.

Independent lab results can help verify cannabinoid content and provide additional information about the quality of the product. A trustworthy brand should make this information available to its customers.

Pay attention to serving size

More is not necessarily better.

The appropriate amount can depend on your pet’s size, the concentration of the product and other individual factors. Follow the product directions carefully and pay attention to how your pet responds.

If you are unsure about introducing CBD into your pet’s routine, especially if your pet takes medication or has an existing health condition, talk with your veterinarian first.

Can CBD cause side effects in pets?

Animals can respond differently to CBD. Potential side effects may include drowsiness, changes in appetite or increased thirst.

It is also important to read the entire ingredient list before giving any wellness product to your pet. Avoid products containing ingredients that may be unsafe for the type of animal you have.

Will CBD get my pet high?

CBD itself is non intoxicating. However, the complete formulation of a product matters, including its THC content.

This is one reason third party testing is so important. Lab results give pet owners more information about what is actually in a product rather than relying only on what is written on the front of the package.

So, is CBD safe for pets?

There is no single answer that applies to every animal. Research into CBD use in pets is continuing, and CBD should not be considered a replacement for appropriate veterinary care.

For pet owners who choose to incorporate hemp derived CBD into their pet’s wellness routine, quality, transparency, appropriate serving sizes and responsible use all matter.

At Oak & Paw Co., we believe pet wellness should not involve guesswork. Our products are made with U.S. grown hemp and third party tested, giving pet owners more information and confidence about what they are choosing for the animals they love.

Because when it comes to our pets, knowing what we are giving them matters.

- Oak & Paw Co.