Sometimes, even with regular exercise, a healthy diet, and playtime, your pet may still struggle to stay calm, stress-free, and healthy. That’s why many pet parents are turning to natural supplements like hemp oil and CBD oil to support their pets’ wellness, ease anxiety, relieve pain, and improve overall comfort.
It’s obvious to get confused when trying to understand the difference between hemp oil and CBD oil for pets. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the differences, benefits, and safe use of both oils, so you can confidently pick the right option and help your furry friends live a calm, healthy, and happy life.
Hemp oil, also called hemp seed oil, is made from the seeds of the hemp plant, and it contains no THC, so it’s completely safe for pets. Unlike CBD oil, it doesn’t cause any psychoactive effects and mainly supports overall health through nutrition.
Hemp oil is rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which help maintain healthy skin, a shiny coat, and a strong immune system. Many pet owners find that giving their pets hemp oil daily improves their coat’s texture and keeps their skin healthy. While it doesn’t directly affect the endocannabinoid system, hemp oil is a natural way to support your pet’s overall health.
What is CBD Oil?
CBD oil for pets is made from the flowers, leaves, and stalks of the hemp plant. It contains cannabidiol (CBD), a natural compound that works with your pet’s endocannabinoid system, the part of the body that helps manage stress, pain, mood, and overall balance.
Unlike hemp oil, which primarily offers nutritional benefits, CBD oil is often used for therapeutic purposes. Many pet parents use it to calm anxiety, ease joint pain, reduce inflammation, or improve sleep in older pets. It can also help pets struggling with separation anxiety or fear of loud noises. With the right dosage, CBD oil can bring noticeable comfort, making life easier and more relaxed for your pet.
Key Differences Between Hemp Oil and CBD Oil
When deciding between hemp and CBD oil for pets, it’s essential to know their differences and the benefits each provides.
- Source: Hemp oil is made from the seeds of the hemp plant, while CBD oil is extracted from the flowers and leaves.
- Purpose: Hemp oil mainly supports nutrition, improving skin, coat, and overall health. CBD oil works more therapeutically, helping with anxiety, pain, and mobility issues.
- Active Compounds: Hemp oil contains healthy fatty acids and nutrients, but no CBD. CBD oil contains cannabidiol, which interacts with your pet’s endocannabinoid system.
- Legal Status: Both are legal and safe, containing low THC levels, though CBD oil is typically subject to stricter regulations.
Here’s a quick comparison table for clarity:
Feature | Hemp Oil | CBD Oil |
Source | Hemp seeds | Hemp flowers, leaves |
THC | None | Very low (non-psychoactive) |
Main Use | Nutritional support | Therapeutic support |
Benefits | Skin, coat, immune system | Anxiety, pain, mobility |
Safety | Safe daily use | Safe with proper dosage |
Benefits of Hemp Oil for Pets
Adding hemp oil for pets to your pet’s daily routine is an easy way to boost their overall health naturally. It works more like a nutritional supplement, offering steady support for everyday wellness.
- Healthy Skin and Shiny Coat: Hemp oil is rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. These nutrients help reduce dryness, soothe itching, and keep your pet’s fur soft, smooth, and glowing.
- Stronger Immune Support: The vitamins and antioxidants in hemp oil strengthen the immune system, helping pets stay healthier and more resilient to common issues.
- Supports Heart and Joint Health: The essential fatty acids also promote better heart function and may ease mild stiffness, keeping your pet active and playful.
- Safe for Regular Use: Hemp oil contains no THC, so it can be safely used every day as part of your pet’s balanced diet.
Hemp oil works best for pets with dry skin, young pets needing added nutrition, or those benefiting from daily health support.
Benefits of CBD Oil for Pets
CBD oil for pets offers targeted support for specific health and wellness concerns, making it different from hemp oil, which is mainly nutritional.
- Reduces Anxiety: CBD can help calm pets dealing with separation anxiety, fear of loud noises, travel stress, or new environments. Many pet parents notice their pets becoming calmer and more relaxed with regular use.
- Eases Pain and Inflammation: CBD oil may relieve discomfort from arthritis, joint stiffness, or chronic pain, helping pets stay more comfortable and active.
- Supports Mobility: Especially for older pets, CBD oil can improve flexibility and ease movement, allowing them to enjoy walks and playtime without struggle.
- Improves Sleep and Relaxation: CBD promotes calmness and helps pets rest better, which supports overall health.
With proper dosage and guidance, CBD oil is a natural way to enhance your pet’s comfort, happiness, and quality of life.
Safety, Side Effects, and Dosage
When giving hemp or CBD oil to pets, it’s important to prioritize safety. Even though these oils are natural, every pet is different, and factors like age, weight, health conditions, and sensitivity can affect how they respond. The right dosage, regular monitoring, and choosing lab-tested, high-quality products can significantly improve safety and effectiveness in ensuring benefits without risks.
Here are some key safety tips to follow before starting any hemp or CBD oil routine for your pet:
- Consult a Veterinarian: Before starting any new supplement, talk to your vet. They can help you choose the right product, determine the correct dosage, and consider any health conditions your pet may have.
- Dosage: Hemp oil is generally safe for daily use as a nutritional supplement. CBD oil should be given carefully based on your pet’s weight, age, and specific needs to ensure the best results.
- Side Effects: Both oils are usually well-tolerated. Some pets may experience mild digestive upset, drowsiness, or slight changes in appetite at first.
- Choose Quality Products: Always select lab-tested oils from trusted brands with clear pet labeling.
How to Choose the Right Option for Your Pet
Choosing between hemp and CBD oil for pets depends on what your furry friend needs most. Hemp oil is great for overall wellness, helping maintain a healthy skin and coat, supporting the immune system, and providing essential daily nutrition. On the other hand, CBD oil is better suited for pets experiencing anxiety, chronic pain, inflammation, or mobility issues.
It’s also important to consider your pet’s age, lifestyle, and any existing health conditions when making a choice. Many pet owners find using both oils works well, hemp oil daily for nutritional support, and CBD oil as needed for calming, relieving discomfort, or helping pets feel more comfortable during stressful moments.
Final Thoughts
Both hemp oil and CBD oil can help keep your pet healthy, happy, and comfortable. Hemp oil supports daily nutrition, skin, and coat health, while CBD oil can relieve anxiety, reduce pain and inflammation, and support mobility.
Choosing high-quality, lab-tested products ensures safety, consistency, and effectiveness for your pet. Whether you’re supporting overall health, easing anxiety, or addressing discomfort, these oils can make a meaningful difference in your pet’s daily life.
Explore a trusted selection of hemp and CBD oils for pets with Greenstone and give your pet the natural care they deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, CBD oil for pets contains very little or no THC, so it won’t cause a high. It’s completely non-psychoactive and safe, allowing pets to benefit from calming and therapeutic effects without feeling intoxicated.
Yes, hemp oil is a natural nutritional supplement, safe for everyday use. It supports healthy skin, a shiny coat, a strong immune system, and overall wellness without any psychoactive effects.
Results may vary depending on your pet and dosage. Many pets show noticeable improvements in anxiety, pain, or mobility within a few hours to several days of consistent use. Patience and proper dosing are key.
Yes, using hemp oil regularly for nutrition and CBD oil as needed for anxiety, pain, or mobility works well together and provides broader support for your pet’s health and comfort.
Dosage depends on your pet’s weight, age, and condition. Begin with a small dose, monitor your pet’s response, and adjust as needed. Consulting a veterinarian ensures safe and effective use.