Superfoods for Pets: Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is essentially a cure-all, magic potion for both pets and humans alike. In addition to being a nutritious alternative to using palm or vegetable oil in the kitchen, coconut oil helps to improve digestion, moisturize hair and skin, and heal cuts and burns.

This incredible, nourishing superfood has numerous benefits for your pet’s health as well, helping to improve their nutrient absorption, diminish bad breath and kill parasites in their furry bodies.

An energy boost

Most of the oils found in coconuts are made up of healthy fats known as medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs). MCFAs are more easily turned into fuel than other fats because they only undergo a 3-step process to be converted into useful energy, while other fats go through 26. A speedy digestive process means MCFAs are turned quickly into fuel instead of stored as fat in the body.

The MCFAs in coconut oil are advantageous for dogs in particular because they help balance their thyroid. Coconut oil can play a part in managing our four-legged friend’s weight and gives them an added boost of energy.

Healthy skin and coat

Coconut oil promotes healthy skin for pets as it does for humans. Applying the oil topically can aid in clearing up our pet’s eczema, flea allergies, bites, and stings. It also can rejuvenate pet's dry or cracked pads and elbows.

It also promotes a healthy coat in both dogs and cats, contributing to a glossy mane and making your trips to the groomer less frequent.

Overall benefits to your pet's body

This elixir is an antibiotic and helps control both the healthy and harmful bacteria found in pet’s gastrointestinal tract. Coconut oil is an excellent absorber of other nutrients in the gut as well. Coconut oil helps build strong bones and encourages healthy brain and nerve functioning.

You should always consult with a veterinarian before adding a new ingredient to your pet’s diet, especially if they have a pre-existing health condition.

We recommend mixing in about one teaspoon of coconut oil per 10 pounds of your pet’s total body weight in their kibble each day. Begin by using one-quarter of this amount, to slowly familiarize your pet’s digestive system with coconut oil.

Gradually give your pet more oil until they reach the recommended dosage. To fully absorb all of the benefits of coconut oil, you can apply some to your pet’s skin as well.