A look at the various types of hemp oil available for dogs and cats, and what you need to know about them.
In the past few years, hemp oil has become very popular in the pet industry. And hundreds of companies are trying to take advantage of the recent trend. Unfortunately, as the market becomes increasingly saturated with hemp oil and CBD products, dog and cat parents are getting confused. This article will discuss the different types of hemp oil so you can decide which is best for your animal companion.
How does hemp oil work in the animal’s body?
All mammals, including dogs, cats and humans, have a natural system in their bodies known as the endocannabinoid system. It maintains homeostasis and balance within the body, benefiting overall health and wellness. Endocannabinoid receptors are in charge of regulating appetite, mood, sleep, metabolism, the immune system and more.
Studies and research have shown that introducing cannabinoids, like those found in hemp oil, can help balance the body and improve and maintain health.
3 different types
1. Full spectrum
Full-spectrum hemp oil contains all the cannabinoids and terpenes extracted from industrial hemp. This includes THC (the legal limit is 0.3%). Cannabinoids and terpenes have been shown in various studies to work together to create the “entourage effect”. This simply means that all the compounds work synergistically together to benefit your dog or cat and promote homeostasis within the body.
2. Broad spectrum
Broad spectrum hemp oil contains all the same cannabinoids and terpenes as full-spectrum hemp oil, except the THC is taken out. This means the entourage effect is still produced thanks to all the beneficial cannabinoids and terpenes, but without the risk of THC exposure.
Broad spectrum hemp oil is made by removing all THC from the oil or starting with an isolate and reintroducing the compounds.
3. CBD isolate
CBD isolate consists of CBD only. All the other cannabinoids and terpenes are taken out for a 99+% CBD purity. CBD isolate is extracted through a C02 processing method that removes the other compounds and leaves pure CBD.
Tips for animal parents
Read the label: Before you purchase hemp oil for your dog or cat, make sure to read the label. Some products will be labeled as full-spectrum CBD oil or broad-spectrum CBD oil, so it’s essential to check the ingredient list and understand what’s actually in the product before giving it to your animal.
Check lab results: Every reputable and responsible hemp oil company will post their lab results online. These reports demonstrate how much of each compound is in the product. For example, you’ll want to look for sections such as CBD and THC, which will likely be highlighted for you.
Avoid THC: Because THC is toxic to pets in high doses (see sidebar at right), it’s best to avoid it altogether. Your pet will still get the advantages of the entourage effect with a broad spectrum oil that contains no THC, so why take the risk at all?
Arming yourself with knowledge about hemp oil and CBD means you’re better equipped to navigate the market and make the best choices for your dog or cat’s health and well-being.
