You may have heard of some of the benefits of this product for humans, from healthy hair to a strong immune system, but does hemp seed oil for pets provide the same positive outcomes? Given the effects of its psychotropic cousin, you’re probably also wondering: is hemp oil safe and effective for use in animals? And finally, if you are willing to try it out, how can you introduce it to your pet’s daily routine?
From relaxation to skin care to pain relief, we’ve got the answers you’ve been wondering about when it comes to hemp seed oil!
What is hemp seed oil?
The first thing that you think of when you hear the word hemp is probably the Cannabis Sativa plant. And yes, hemp oil is derived from the seeds (well, technically nuts) of the same plant that gives us marijuana. So, then, is hemp and CBD the same for dogs? Well, no!
Hemp seed oil comes from a type of cannabis sativa plant that does not have a significant amount of Cannabidiol (aka CBD) or Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC.) Instead, hemp seed is filled with protein, fibre, and a range of nutrients such as iron, Manganese, Zinc, Magnesium, B-vitamins, and Vitamin E. Similar to other kinds of nuts, such as walnuts and pistachios, they’re also an incredible source of fatty acids, like Omega 3, 6 and 9.
Hemp seed oil is made by extracting the oil from the plant through a cold-pressing process, similarly to pine nut oil or olive oil. This allows the finished product to remain highly-nutritious when consumed.
Is hemp seed oil for pets safe?
As we mentioned, because hemp for cats and dogs comes from a variety of the cannabis plant that is very, very low in psychoactive compounds, you don’t have to worry about your pet getting high from consuming hemp seed oil. As long as you’re confident that what you’re getting is hemp seed oil and not CBD oil, you can be sure that your pet can consume this product just like any other nut-based oil.
That said, you wouldn’t simply pour olive or sunflower oil over your pet’s food bowl! It’s still a good idea to practice moderation when it comes to hemp seed oil for dogs and cats. Always check with your vet before giving your pet a new ingredient, make sure that the product has been manufactured for pets, and follow the instructions on the label to keep it in moderation.
And now that we’ve covered what hemp seed oil is and whether it’s safe to share with your furry friends, we can get to the fun part: the benefits! Let’s switch gears and discuss some of the reasons you might want to give your pet hemp seed oil regularly.
Does hemp work for calming dogs and cats?
Even though hemp seed oil lacks the psychotropic elements that make marijuana smokers relaxed, it does seem that there are special qualities in hemp that encourage stress relief. It’s for this reason that hemp seed oil is often recommended for dogs suffering from separation anxiety or cats who are struggling to adapt to a new environment.
Of course, dealing with anxiety in pets should always be a multifaceted process. In addition to giving your pet hemp seed oil, it’s also a good idea to talk to your vet about other lifestyle changes that have been proven to reduce stress. This may include increased exercise, mental stimulation, and desensitisation to certain triggers that cause adverse reactions. Working with a certified pet behaviourist is a fantastic way to ensure that your anxious pet is getting a professional, well-rounded treatment plan.
Does hemp seed oil for pets help with ageing?
Your pet is your best friend, which is why you want to keep them young for as long as you possibly can! As it turns out, hemp seed oil can help with that.
Thanks to that rich tapestry of fatty acids such as Omega 3, gamma-Linolenic acid and Omega 9, hemp seed oil has naturally anti-inflammatory properties. This can help reduce joint discomfort and arthritic pain, while keeping your pet’s mind sharp well into their golden years.
Can hemp oil for dogs and cats make their coat shine?
Again, the fatty acids in hemp seed oil are the stars of the show here. More specifically, polyunsaturated fats are a key element in maintaining healthy cell membranes in the derma. In other words, fatty acids help skin cells and hair follicles stay well-hydrated. Not only does this keep their skin and coat looking great, but it can also reduce itchiness and irritation.
But, it’s not just the fatty acids at play here. Vitamin E is often prescribed for pets with skin allergies and irritation, as it does a fantastic job of promoting skin and coat health.
How should you go about giving hemp seed oil to your pet?
Clearly, there are many physical and even mental health benefits to giving your pet hemp seed oil. But how can you introduce this product to your pet, safely?
- First, familiarise yourself with some of the different products you can choose from, including:
Hempseed Nectar for Dogs. This is an all-natural feed supplement that you can add directly to your dog’s food bowl. Its only two ingredients are hemp nectar and hemp seed oil, so you know your doggo is getting only the best of the cannabis sativa plant.
Hemp Oil Blend with Hoki Fish & MCT Oil for Dogs or Hemp Oil Blend with Hoki Fish & MCT Oil for Cats. If you’re looking for something with even more skin and coat-promoting action, this hemp oil product also contains New Zealand Hoki oil and coconut oil. The added fatty acids offer a range of extra benefits, including a stronger immune system, better cardiovascular health, and increased brain function.
Hemp Infused Treats for Cats or Dogs. If you’re more interested in the idea of hemp seed oil treats than food supplements, then you’ll be glad to know that there are options for both dogs and cats. That way, you can make hemp seed oil the most delicious part of their training sessions, or give them something special when they’re being extra cute!
- Next, you’ll want to find the right dosage for your pet. You can do this by following the instructions on the bottle, which provide proper dosage for your dog or cat’s weight. Just like with any nutritional supplement, don’t go over the recommended dose for your pet’s size.
- Store the leftovers properly. As an all-natural product, hemp seed oil is typically stored in the refrigerator after opening. Keep an eye on the expiry date and replace as needed.
Will your furry friend enjoy hemp seed oil for pets?
When administered with proper dosage, hemp seed oil is a safe and beneficial dietary supplement that can offer a range of advantages. Whether you’re interested in boosting your cat’s natural shine or helping your dog learn their tricks faster, hemp seed oil’s unique profile of nutrients can improve your pet’s wellbeing.
To be sure, you might have to spend a little bit of time educating your friends and family about the differences between hemp oil and CBD oil, but in the meantime, your furry friend will be calmer and more comfortable!
