Hemp seed oil is generally considered safe for pets, but you should get the green light from your vet before adding it to your pet’s diet. (And that goes for any additional supplement!)

Dr. Nelson says there’s really not a lot that can go wrong with hemp seed oil unless you’re improperly dosing it. (More on that further down!)

“The omega-3 [in hemp seed oil] can actually be pro-inflammatory, so too much omega-3 can have the reverse effect of why we’re giving it,” she says. “Too much of something can be just as detrimental as having too little when it comes to supplements.”

Dr. Nelson adds that too much hemp seed oil can also cause your pet to get an upset stomach and diarrhea.

Any hemp seed oil or product containing hemp seed oil that you give your pet should be formulated just for them. Never attempt to give your own (human) supplement to your pet. While you may share almost everything with your furry friend, it’s best to only give them supplements intended for their consumption and that have their entire ingredients list approved by your vet.

“When products are created for animal use versus human use there are usually different formulations used which would benefit animals specifically,” explains Dr. Butzer.

What’s the appropriate hemp seed oil dosage for pets?

When it comes to giving your pet hemp seed oil, Dr. Nelson stresses the importance of following the dosing instructions on the product label.

“Each product will have different concentrations [of hemp seed oil], formulations, and other things added,” says Dr. Nelson.

Since the dosage for most pet products is based on weight, Dr. Nelson says it’s very important to know how much your pet currently weighs. Don’t guess! If your pet’s weight is close to the top or bottom of the range listed on the back of the package, it could mean you’re accidentally giving them too little or too much of a product.