can you give a cat coconut oil

Coconut oil is not poisonous for cats and is perfectly safe for them to eat, although they should only be given small amounts to start with. Some cats will tolerate coconut oil better than others and whilst it is rare, there is always a risk that they could also be allergic to it.

Coconut Oil: A True Superfood

Therapeutic virgin coconut oil is a real “superfood” found in nature that is beneficial to all types of pets. These include both big and small herbivores like goats, horses, hamsters, rabbits, and even birds, as well as carnivores like dogs and cats.

If you share your life with one or more of the estimated 94.2 million cats in the US, you probably are keenly aware of their unique emotional and physical needs and how they differ from dogs. As cat parents, we undoubtedly want to provide them the healthiest, safest foods that will enrich their lives, and you may have wondered whether or not coconut oil is safe for cats.

Since we at CocoTherapy adore cats, we have firsthand knowledge of the benefits coconut oil can provide for their happiness and well-being. The following section of this post will discuss 5 advantages of coconut oil for your feline companion.

Risks of Coconut Oil for Cats

Although there are some advantages to using coconut oil for cats, it’s crucial to remember that the ASPCA lists it as one of the “People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets,” indicating that while it probably won’t hurt them too much, it may cause upset stomachs or diarrhea.

Gardner agrees that there could be risks.

“I would be cautious using it in cats with pancreatic inflammation because it is high in saturated fats, and some cats can be sensitive to it,” the expert advises.

Additionally, Stupine expresses concern about the possibility of pancreatitis and advises cautious use of coconut oil for cats.

Coconut oil is also very high in calories. If you start giving your cat coconut oil, you’ll need to make other dietary adjustments to prevent unintended weight gain.

1) It Supports Your Cat’s Skin and Coat

Applying coconut oil topically to your cat’s skin and fur can help shield it from becoming dry and irritated. Its moisturizing properties will also keep their coat healthy and lustrous!

Coconut oil’s antioxidant qualities make it a useful healer for damaged skin. Its high lauric acid content also confers antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. Because of this, coconut oil is perfect for treating a variety of infections brought on by bacteria and viruses both inside and outside the body.

It’s possible that you’ve noticed your cat has “cat acne,” which is commonly known as follicular keratosis and can happen at any age. These asymptomatic blackheads or pimples can develop on the upper lip, lower lip, or chin. If untreated, they can become pustules and cause a secondary infection. If your cat has acne, we advise washing the affected area with a sterile saline solution and then massaging the area with virgin coconut oil. Coconut oil’s antimicrobial qualities calm the skin, speed up the healing of cat acne, and shield the cat from infections.

Additionally, the fat in coconut oil suffocates parasites like mange, fleas, and ticks, killing them. Additionally, because coconut oil has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, it helps heal irritated skin and keeps parasite bites from becoming infected.

Daily feedings of a small amount of coconut oil promote healthy skin and fur from the inside out. It is rich in vitamin E, which is necessary for the growth of healthy skin and the restoration of damaged skin. It can also be applied directly to bites, burns, rashes, and sore spots.

FAQ

Is coconut oil safe for cats to eat?

While coconut oil is generally considered safe for most cats when used in moderation, it’s important to consult your veterinarian if your cat is sensitive to certain ingredients. Coconut oil is high in saturated fats, which could contribute to weight gain or other metabolic issues if given in excessive amounts.

How much coconut oil can I give my cat for constipation?

As mentioned before, the oil is edible, so it is safe to use if your dog or cat licks the area where the oil has been applied. If your pet is suffering from constipation then organic extra-virgin coconut oil can work wonders! You should use 1/2 teaspoon of coconut oil for every 10 pounds of body weight.

Is coconut oil a natural antibiotic for cats?

There are many benefits to coconut oil for cats. It’s antifungal, antibiotic and helps balance the good and bad bacteria in the GI tract.

How do you use coconut oil for worms in cats?

To create a worm-hostile intestinal environment, you can add coconut oil to your cat’s feed. In addition to the good taste, the oil has a repulsive effect on parasites and strengthens the immune system of your four-legged friend.