Should you add coconut oil to your cat's food?
So, should you give your cat coconut oil?
- Coconut oil does not have any evidence-based benefits for cats (with the exception of specific cases of certain GI-tract diseases - under veterinary supervision).
- Cats don't like the taste of coconut oil
- Coconut oil a highly-processed ingredient that's not at all natural for cats to consume
Do cats like coconut oil?
While cats are fussy eaters, they usually like coconut oil, thus making its addition to the menu rather straightforward. The easiest way to use coconut oil for cats is to melt the product in the microwave and pour it over the kibble. If that does not work, you can mix the melted coconut oil with canned cat food which will mask the scent and flavor.
Can coconut oil help a cat with kidney disease?
Within coconut oil, there are Omega-3 fatty acids, which help provide energy, extra protein, and help in slowing down the progression of kidney disease (CKD). The omega 3’s may even slow the progression of cancer . You can give your cat half a teaspoon per day to help with kidney disease.
What are the benefits of coconut oil for cats?
- atopic dermatitis,
- dry skin,
- wound healing,
- a natural way to fight fleas and ticks.
Is it OK to give cats coconut oil?
Coconut oil can be used both topically and orally to keep your cat's coat shiny and healthy and prevent dry, irritated skin from developing. It kills parasites such as mange, fleas, and ticks which are suffocated by the fat content in the oil.
How do I apply coconut oil to my cat?
How to UseUse one-half teaspoon by putting it into your cat's food daily.Rub between your hands to soften and apply all over the skin.Use an Elizabethan collar to make sure your cat does not lick off the oil after being applied topically.
What oil is best for cats?
Now, let's get into the eight oils most recommended for cats and dogs and their benefits!Fish Oil. Fish oil is packed with two essential fatty acids, including eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). ... Cod Liver Oil. ... Hemp Oil. ... Flaxseed Oil. ... Krill Oil. ... Coconut Oil. ... Olive Oil. ... Sunflower Oil.More items...•
Can I give my cat coconut oil for hairballs?
Hairballs are no fun to deal with for both cat and owner, but adding a bit of coconut oil to their diet can help reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract that can occur when your cat regurgitates hairballs. It also helps your cat pass more easily by adding moisture and bulk to the hairballs.
Benefits of Coconut Oil For Cats
Using coconut oil for cats can have multiple benefits, says Dr. Anna Gardner, a holistic veterinarian in Washington. Externally, Gardner says cocon...
How to Give Cats Coconut Oil
You can use small amounts of coconut oil with food or apply it topically for cats with skin problems, Gardner says. But, as with any new food or su...
Risks of Coconut Oil For Cats
While coconut oil does have some benefits for cats, it’s important to note that the ASPCA has it on their list of “People Foods to Avoid Feeding Yo...
Alternatives to Coconut Oil For Cats
If your cat won’t tolerate coconut oil, there are alternatives to consider. In fact, Stupine says that coconut oil seems to be used in a manner sim...
How Coconut Oil Works
Using coconut oil for everything might seem like just a fad right now, but the truth is, this oil has some amazing advantages and its popularity isn’t likely to change.
Cats And Coconut Oil
Humans might not have any issues digesting coconut oil, but can the same be said for cats? There’s plenty of anecdotal evidence to suggest that coconut oil can actually be extremely beneficial as a holistic remedy for cats.
Are There Risks?
Using coconut oil to improve your cat’s health could end up being great in a number of ways. However, there are some disadvantages to using it that are crucial to keep in mind.
Ways To Use Coconut Oil With Cats
Although there are some risks to keep in mind before giving your cat coconut oil, for some pet parents the pros of using it far outweigh the downsides.
Ivana Crnec, DVM
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Is Coconut Oil Okay for Cats?
Yes, coconut oil is safe for cats, although it can cause some side effects when used incorrectly. Gastrointestinal issues, including vomiting or diarrhea, can be a problem if giving your cat too much coconut oil.
Benefits of Coconut Oil for Cats
Coconut oil contains naturally occurring saturated fats in the form of medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs) or medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), including lauric acid, capric acid, and caprylic acid. The lauric acid content is critical as it alters fat metabolism, and instead of supporting fat storage, it is quickly burned for energy.
How to Give Cats Coconut Oil
While cats are fussy eaters, they usually like coconut oil, thus making its addition to the menu rather straightforward. The easiest way to use coconut oil for cats is to melt the product in the microwave and pour it over the kibble.
Risks of Coconut Oil for Cats
Coconut oil has various health benefits, but not every cat reacts the same. The most common issue occurs when cats are given too much coconut oil in their food bowl.
Alternatives to Coconut Oil for Cats
If your cat does not like coconut oil or has adverse reactions, try some alternatives. As always, it is best to consult with your veterinarian and ensure you are using the right oil for your cat’s needs, as different oils come with different benefits.
Our Final Thoughts on Coconut Oil for Cats
Our final verdict is that coconut oil for cats is definitely beneficial. With powers stemming from the high-fat content, coconut oil offers several health benefits and can be used in the management of various conditions.
Is coconut oil a triglyceride?
Coconut oil comes from mature coconuts and can be used in both food and health products. It contains saturated fatty acids called medium-chain triglycerides. MCTs, which also include palm kernel oil, are more readily digested than long-chain triglycerides (such as olive oil, soybean oil, avocado oil, and fish oil).
Does coconut oil help with arthritis?
Some owners feel that the use of coconut oil, either orally or topically, can improve the condition of their cat's coat, and can also alleviate dry or itchy skin. Further theories suggest that is may help with metabolic functions, aid in weight loss, and alleviate pain from arthritis as well as improving bone health.
Is coconut oil safe for cats?
Although coconut oil is not poisonous to cats, it may not be the ideal addition to every cat's diet. Any change in diet, supplements, or medications can affect your cat's health. Depending on your cat, increased fat in the diet may lead to weight gain or digestive issues. Your veterinarian knows your cat's history and physical condition ...
Is coconut oil harmful?
Studies have been largely inconclusive and mainly on human subjects. This is not to say that coconut oil is useless or harmful; it is only to clarify that the effects of coconut oil are not proven ...
Is coconut oil good for you?
Coconut oil has been used in cooking for decades but within the past several years its popularity as a holistic remedy has skyrocketed. Supporters rave about the numerous health benefits of coconut oil for humans.
Can coconut oil cause weight gain in cats?
They can also advise you on the risks versus benefits of oral coconut oil if your cat is prone to gaining weight, or has a history of pancreatitis , irritable bowel disorder, or any other disease or metabolic condition. Oral coconut oil may exacerbate some health issues, especially diseases that make cats metabolize fat inefficiently.
How to get coconut oil out of cat's coat?
Simply get a little coconut oil in liquid form by heating it in your hands and rub it into your pet’s coat – paying particular attention to the feet, lower legs, neck, spine, and tail base. Let it stay on for a day or so before you remove it with a mild shampoo. By then your cat will be clear of issues!
How to make my cat's skin soft?
Rub a little of the coconut oil into a dry patch of skin and it will soon make the skin soft and supple. If your cat has dry skin from wearing a collar or is susceptible to dry patches try a little of this oil. Giving your cat coconut oil for skin conditions is really easy. You can simply apply a little to an affected area for direct topical ...
How to get rid of hairballs on cat?
Coconut oil can safely expedite the process and reduce the production of hairballs. A bit of coconut oil added to the cat’s food or placed on their nose to remove by licking off can see your cat automatically lubricate their digestive system.
What to do if your cat has hairballs?
Treating Hairballs. Not every cat suffers badly from hairballs, but if your cat has hairball issues then coconut oil could be the hairball home remedy that saves you a load of money on hairball control cat food ! Hairballs tend to form when groomed hair has trouble transitioning your cat’s digestive system.
Can coconut oil help with constipation?
Our friend, lauric acid is the culprit at work here, again! It is a medium-chain fatty acid and it is believed that such fatty acids can have a mild laxative effect which means coconut oil can be useful for treating cat constipation .
Is coconut oil good for cats?
It is purported to support cell rejuvenation and promote skin health. Giving your cat some coconut oil orally can boost their vitamin e levels and keep the skin in good condition and promote a healthy-looking coat.
Does coconut oil help with fleas?
One of the additional benefits of coconut oil is that it also acts as a repellent. So even if your cat doesn’t have any issues yet, you can take steps to naturally avoid a flea infestation.
How to rub coconut oil on cat?
If you want to rub it on a larger area, I would melt the coconut oil in a pan over the stove or microwave. Then, while its warm and liquid form (not super hot) pour it over your cat so it seeps through their fur onto their skin. Then simply rub it into their skin.
What are the two fatty acids cats eat?
Cats obtain 2 fatty acids from the meat they eat: Linoleic acid (LA) Arachidonic acid (AA) They can also benefit from fats and oils for optimal health like: EPA. DHA. Coconut oil contains about 2% of linoleic acid. It’s mainly made up of MCT’s (medium-chain triglycerides), which are great for us humans.
How to get rid of ear mites on cats?
You can melt coconut oil and add a few drops to your cat’s ears to help with soothing itchiness, ear wax, and smother ear mites. If they have issues with ear mites, first remove as many mites as you can with a cotton ball. Then get an eye dropper to put a few drops of coconut oil in their ear.
Can you give a cat coconut oil?
You can introduce coconut oil to cats very slowly. This way you can see if your cat is allergic or if they even like it. They may not tolerate it that well. It could cause diarrhea if you give too much too quickly. Try and see if they’ll lick it from your finger, from a spoon or dab some on their nose.
Can coconut oil help with constipation?
Coconut Oil For Cats Constipation. You can try using coconut oil to relieve constipation in your cat. From the moisture and fatty acids, it easily absorbs into your cat’s digestive tract and moves along anything that’s backed up in the intestines. Just make sure your cat is actually constipated.
Does coconut oil help with kidney disease?
The omega 3’s may even slow the progression of cancer . You can give your cat half a teaspoon per day to help with kidney disease.
Does coconut oil kill tapeworms?
This substance is effective in helping to treat tapeworms, giardia and other parasites. This also doesn’t kill any of the beneficial bacteria that is used to maintain your cat’s digestive tract. There isn’t enough hard data or research to know enough about how coconut oil affects cats.
Can cats have bad teeth?
Diseases of teeth and gums are not unusual for cats and can cause great discomfort and pain if left untreated. They can also lead to tooth loss, bone infection, and result in bacteria entering the bloodstream, affecting other organs as well.
Can coconut oil be used on cats?
As we’ve mentioned earlier, the benefits of using coconut oil for cats still need scientific confirmation. However, there is a lot of anecdotal evidence that coconut oil for cats can be used to relieve certain issues, especially when it’s used topically for issues such as:
How to give coconut oil to cats?
Aside from applying coconut oil topically on your cat’s skin, it may also be given orally. However, before you start to incorporate it into your cat’s diet, make sure to introduce it first to her by placing a small amount on your finger and letting your cat lick it off. Observe closely if your cat enjoys the taste and if there are no allergic reactions after two to three hours. If there is none, you can safely add it to her food or coat some of her toys so she can lick it off during playtime.
How to help a cat with constipation?
To help ease constipation, give your cat at least half a teaspoon for every 10 pounds of her body weight, once daily. Aside from constipation, coconut oil also relieves bacterial gut infections, aids digestion and prevents painful stools.
Why do cats eat hairballs?
Cats are prone to ingesting hairballs because they are meticulous groomers. However, this can be easily remedied with the help of coconut oil. It reduces inflammation in the respiratory tract when cats regurgitate hairballs. It also helps cats to pass hairballs more easily as it adds moisture and bulk.
Does coconut oil help with gums?
Gingivitis is common among cats and it can be very discomforting. Coconut oil helps relieve inflammation and prevents gums from becoming swollen. Simply rub a pinch of coconut oil directly into your cat’s gums.
Does coconut oil help with arthritis in cats?
Adding coconut oil to your cat’s diet may help alleviate inflammatory health issues like arthritis and swollen joints especially among elder or senior cats. This is because coconut oil has anti-inflammatory properties of lauric acid.
Does coconut oil help cats lose weight?
According to the National Institute of Health, coconut oil helped with weight loss and created leaner body mass when they tested it with more than 50 overweight cats. This just goes to show that coconut oil improves metabolic function. Simply add one-half teaspoon of coconut oil to your cat’s food at least once a day.
What is coconut oil good for?
Coconut oil can be used to improve a variety of conditions, including thyroid, digestion, fatigue and diabetes. It is made of medium-chain fatty acids, which are known to increase metabolism and promote weight loss, a big change from many other oils. They absorb easily in the digestive tract, which can help soothe constipation and irritable bowel syndrome and help cats more easily absorb commercial cat food.
How to treat a cat's dry skin?
... Cat skin contains natural oils that keep the coat shiny and healthy and prevent dry, itchy skin. However, if your cat develops a skin condition, coconut oil is a natural remedy that can be applied topically or given orally to improve skin and coat.
Is coconut oil good for pets?
The benefits of coconut oil are being widely studied for both humans and their pets, and the results are astounding. Coconut oil is much healthier than vegetable and animal oils and has been shown to reduce symptoms of many diseases.
Does coconut oil help cats?
They absorb easily in the digestive tract, which can help soothe constipation and irritable bowel syndrome and help cats more easily absorb commercial cat food. Coconut oil also improves the quality of your cat's coat, which reduces hairballs and even soothes throats that get scratchy from grooming the coat.
