A Brief Guide to Edible and Topical CBD for Pets and How to Use It

When it comes to CBD-infused products for pets, there are two main types: edible and topical. Edible CBD is dissolved into oil or fat, such as hemp seed oil or coconut oil, which can be given orally via a syringe or mixed with their food. 

Topical CBD is applied directly to the skin in the form of a balm, cream, lotion, spray, or salve for dogs—and is becoming increasingly popular among pet owners due to its therapeutic effects on specific conditions.

Edible Vs. Topical CBD Products

Despite its popularity and proven benefits, there is still some confusion surrounding topical CBD usage and why it can work wonders on pets suffering from certain conditions. Whether you’re an animal lover looking into how you can help your dog improve their health or simply curious about the various benefits of CBD, this article will help understand more about edible and topical CBD products, the basic difference between them and how to administer them best.

The Amount of THC

There is a common misconception that all CBD products contain THC. However, this is not always the case. When CBD is derived from hemp, it contains very minimal levels of THC- far below the psychoactive threshold. This means that both edible and topical CBD products will not get your pet high and are safe to use.

If you are worried about your pet experiencing the effects of THC, make sure to look for CBD products that are certified by an independent third-party lab.  This will ensure that the product has been tested and verified to contain negligible levels of THC.

The Method of Delivery

The main difference between edible and topical CBD products is how they are delivered to the body. As mentioned before, edible CBD is either given orally via a syringe or mixed with food. 

This delivery method is ideal for pets who are struggling with issues such as nausea, loss of appetite, or difficulty swallowing. This delivery method is also an excellent way to ensure your pet gets a consistent dose of CBD every day.

Topical CBD, on the other hand, is applied directly to the skin in the form of a balm, cream, lotion, salve, or spray. This delivery method is perfect for conditions that affect the skin and muscles, such as arthritis, chronic pain, and muscle spasms. 

By applying CBD products like a salve for dogs directly to the affected area, you can ensure that the cannabinoid is absorbed through the dog’s skin and into the bloodstream, where it can provide relief.

Which Is Better: Edible or Topical CBD?

There isn’t a wrong answer—both edible and topical CBD products have unique benefits that can be helpful for pets in different ways. The decision of which type of CBD product should be given to your dog depends largely upon the requirement of your pet.

If the issue they are facing is internal, using an edible CBD product is a better option. Whereas, if they are struggling with a skin issue or unable to eat or swallow any substance, it is preferable to use topical CBD products in such a case.

Final Thoughts

Each product has its own benefits that a pet can reap. When deciding to use CBD products for your pet, it is vital to consider their condition, requirement, and ability to use CBD products. Once you have figured out these key points, you can opt for a product accordingly.   With different types and brands of both topicals and edible CBD products on the market, it’s easy to find one that’s perfect for your pet’s specific needs.