Coconut Oil Benefits for Pets

Coconut oil is a safe, natural and edible oil that can be very beneficial for your domestic pet, including cats and dogs. The oil is derived from pressed coconuts and the purest form of the product is 100% cold-pressed virgin coconut oil, which means that it has not been heated or refined and contains only high quality oil. Coconut oil is available at health food stores or online.

  1. Skin and Coat

    • Coconut oil can be very beneficial for pets when taken internally. Adding the oil to their food is the simplest way to include it in their diet. Just a few drops a day can be very beneficial to the coat, moisturizing the skin and hair. Coconut oil can be used in its semi-solid form or warmed slightly to make it liquid. For dogs and cats, add 1/4 teaspoon of oil for every 10 pounds they weigh. Slowly increase to 1 teaspoon for every 10 pounds of weight per day, or 1 Tablespoon for every 30 pounds. Increase the dosage slowly, and if you notice any irregular bowel movements or an upset stomach, decrease the amount you're giving them. Allow your pet time to adjust to smaller amounts before attempting to increase it again.

    Healing Properties

    • Externally, coconut oil can be applied to cracked paw pads, wounds, scratches and cuts, like a healing salve. It can be used inside the mouth on sores and on teeth as a toothpaste. Coconut oil may also be applied to fungal infections, bites and stings--skin ailments of almost any kind.

    In the Ears

    • Slightly warmed coconut oil may be dropped inside your pet's ears to treat ear mites and infected ears. If using a cotton swab, be careful not to place the swab very far into the ear--use it only to apply the oil to the outside of the ear canal, where it can get into the ear on its own.

    Skin Irritations

    • Coconut oil may get rid of odors on your pet's coat and help cats to eliminate fur balls. It can also benefit pets with difficult skin conditions such as eczema, allergy to fleas or other allergies.