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Difference Between Pet CBD And Human CBD

Dale blog imageAuthor: Dale Hewett

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If you’ve considered using CBD products for your furry family member, you’ve likely wondered: “Can I just give my pet the same CBD oil I use?” or “What’s the actual difference between pet CBD and human CBD?” These questions are increasingly common as CBD becomes a mainstream wellness option for both humans and animals alike. Understanding the crucial differences between these products is essential for your pet’s safety and wellbeing.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the key distinctions between CBD products formulated for pets versus those designed for humans. You’ll learn about variations in potency, ingredients, formulations, and safety considerations that make pet-specific CBD products the better choice for your four-legged companions. With over five years of researching and reviewing CBD products for both humans and pets, we’ve gathered the essential information you need to make informed decisions for your pet’s health.

What Exactly Is CBD?

CBD (cannabidiol) is a naturally occurring compound found in cannabis plants, primarily extracted from hemp varieties. Unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD doesn’t produce psychoactive effects or the “high” associated with cannabis. Both humans and animals possess an endocannabinoid system (ECS) that interacts with cannabinoids like CBD, which explains why CBD products can benefit both people and pets.

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The Endocannabinoid System in Humans vs. Pets

While humans and pets both have endocannabinoid systems, there are notable differences in how these systems function:

“The endocannabinoid system works similarly across mammals, but the concentration and distribution of receptors can vary significantly between species,” explains Dr. Sarah Thompson, veterinary researcher specializing in cannabinoid therapies. “Dogs, for instance, have a higher concentration of CB1 receptors in their brain stem than humans do, making them more sensitive to certain cannabinoids.”

This biological difference is one of the primary reasons why pet-specific CBD products are necessary. Your pet’s body processes cannabinoids differently than yours does, requiring specialized formulations tailored to their unique physiology.

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Key Differences Between Pet CBD and Human CBD

1. Potency and Dosage Considerations

The most significant difference between pet and human CBD products lies in their potency. CBD products designed for humans typically contain much higher concentrations of CBD than those formulated for pets.

For perspective, a standard dose of CBD for an adult human might range from 20-40mg, while a dose for a medium-sized dog might be only 2-5mg. This dramatic difference in appropriate dosing makes human CBD products potentially dangerous for pets if not properly diluted or measured with extreme precision.

The sensitivity of pets to CBD varies by species as well. Dogs are particularly sensitive to cannabinoids compared to humans, while cats have unique liver enzyme systems that process cannabinoids differently. These biological differences further emphasize the importance of species-specific formulations.

2. THC Content and Safety

Another crucial distinction involves THC content. While human CBD products may legally contain up to 0.3% THC (in the United States), this amount can be problematic for pets, especially dogs who are particularly sensitive to THC.

“Even trace amounts of THC that might be harmless to humans can cause adverse reactions in pets,” warns veterinarian Dr. Michael Rodriguez. “Dogs have more cannabinoid receptors in their brain than humans, making them more susceptible to THC toxicity.”

Pet CBD products are typically formulated to be THC-free or contain minimal amounts well below what human products might include. This consideration is essential for your pet’s safety and wellbeing.

3. Ingredient Variations

Pet and human CBD products often contain different supportive ingredients:

Human CBD products frequently include:

  • Essential oils like peppermint or citrus (potentially toxic to pets)
  • Artificial sweeteners like xylitol (highly toxic to dogs)
  • Higher concentrations of terpenes
  • Flavoring agents not suitable for animal consumption

Pet CBD products are formulated with:

  • Pet-safe flavors (bacon, chicken, fish)
  • Carrier oils optimized for pet digestion (MCT oil, hemp seed oil)
  • Supportive ingredients specific to pet health issues (glucosamine for joint health, for example)
  • Calibrated terpene profiles appropriate for animal consumption

The flavor differences aren’t just about preference—they’re about safety. Many essential oils and flavorings in human products can be harmful or even toxic to pets.

4. Delivery Methods

The ways CBD is administered also differs between pet and human products:

Human CBD delivery methods include:

  • Tinctures and oils
  • Capsules
  • Vape products
  • Edibles like gummies
  • Topical creams and lotions

Pet CBD delivery methods are designed specifically for animal use:

  • Oils formulated for adding to food
  • Treats and chews
  • Pet-specific topicals
  • Specially formulated capsules

Pet CBD products are designed with administration challenges in mind. For instance, pet treats with CBD make dosing simple compared to measuring out tiny portions of a human tincture.

Can Pets Use Human CBD Products?

This brings us to the common question: “Can pets use human CBD oil or other human CBD products?” While technically possible in some limited circumstances, it’s generally not recommended for several important reasons:

Safety Concerns

The primary issue with giving human CBD to pets involves dosage precision. Even if you attempt to calculate an appropriate dose, the high concentration of human products makes it extremely difficult to measure accurately for pets. A few drops too many could mean the difference between a therapeutic dose and one that causes side effects.

Additionally, the potential presence of unsafe ingredients in human CBD products poses unnecessary risks. Certain essential oils, artificial sweeteners, and other additives common in human products can be harmful to pets.

Quality and Testing Standards

Pet CBD products from reputable companies undergo testing specific to animal consumption and safety. While human CBD products may be thoroughly tested, they’re not necessarily evaluated with pet-specific concerns in mind.

“The manufacturing standards can differ significantly between human and pet products,” explains cannabis researcher Dr. Linda Chen. “Pet products typically undergo additional testing for compounds that might be harmless to humans but problematic for animals.”

When Human CBD Might Be Used for Pets

There are limited circumstances where, under veterinary guidance, human CBD products might be used for pets:

“In some cases, when working with a veterinarian who is knowledgeable about cannabis medicine, a high-quality, THC-free human CBD product might be used for a pet with proper dosage calculations,” notes holistic veterinarian Dr. James Wilson. “However, this should only be done with professional oversight and when appropriate pet products aren’t available.”

Difference Between Pet Cbd And Human Cbd

The key takeaway remains: whenever possible, use products specifically formulated for your pet’s species and size.

Choosing the Right CBD for Your Pet

When selecting a CBD product for your pet, consider these essential factors:

Veterinary Guidance

Before starting any CBD regimen for your pet, consult with your veterinarian, particularly if your pet has existing health conditions or takes medications. While regulatory restrictions sometimes limit how much advice veterinarians can offer about CBD, many are becoming more knowledgeable about its potential benefits and risks.

Quality Indicators

Look for these signs of quality in pet CBD products:

  • Third-party lab testing results (Certificate of Analysis)
  • Organic hemp sourcing
  • CO2 extraction methods
  • Clear dosage instructions by weight
  • Pet-specific formulations
  • Reputable brand with positive reviews

Starting Slowly

When introducing CBD to your pet, start with a lower dose than recommended and gradually increase as needed while monitoring your pet’s response. This slow approach helps minimize the risk of side effects and allows you to find the optimal dose for your individual pet.

Common Misconceptions About Pet CBD

Several misconceptions persist regarding CBD for pets:

Misconception 1: CBD Will Make Pets “High”

Quality pet CBD products contain negligible to no THC and won’t produce any psychoactive effects. Your pet won’t get “high” from properly formulated CBD products.

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Misconception 2: Human and Pet CBD Are Identical

As we’ve discussed throughout this article, there are significant differences in formulation, potency, and safety considerations between human and pet products.

Misconception 3: CBD Is a Cure-All

While CBD shows promise for managing various conditions in pets, it’s not a miracle cure. It works best as part of a comprehensive approach to your pet’s health and wellbeing, often complementing other treatments rather than replacing them.

Conclusion

The differences between pet CBD and human CBD products extend far beyond simple marketing—they represent crucial variations in formulation that directly impact your pet’s safety and the effectiveness of treatment. From potency differences to specialized ingredients and delivery methods, pet-specific CBD products are designed with your four-legged family member’s unique biology in mind.

While it might be tempting to share your own CBD oil with your pet, particularly if you’ve already invested in a high-quality product for yourself, doing so carries unnecessary risks. The relatively small additional investment in a properly formulated pet CBD product helps ensure your companion receives appropriate, safe support tailored to their specific needs.

Remember that the CBD industry continues to evolve, with research advancing our understanding of how these compounds affect different species. Staying informed through reputable sources and working with knowledgeable veterinary professionals remains the best approach to incorporating CBD into your pet’s wellness routine.

By understanding the key differences between human and pet CBD products, you’re now better equipped to make informed choices that prioritize your pet’s safety and wellbeing in the growing world of cannabinoid therapeutics.

Difference Between Pet Cbd And Human Cbd (2)
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About the Author - Supplement Expert Dale Hewett

Dale Hewett Author
Dale Hewett

Dale Hewett is the owner and founder of New Phase Blends. He discovered his passion for CBD use after suffering from injuries sustained while on Active Duty in the US Army. His number one priority is introducing the same CBD products that he himself uses for relief to others who can benefit from them. This led to the discovery of other useful, natural supplements that most people aren’t familiar with, but can make a great difference for our bodies.

Dale holds a Master Degree of Science, and is the inventor of the popular, CBD-based sleep aid known as ‘Sleep.’ He’s given multiple lectures on CBD to institutions such as Cornell’s MBA student program, and Wharton’s School of Business.

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