Benefits & cons of coconut oil for cats

The benefits of coconut oil for humans is starting to be found in studies for its nutritional content, antioxidant properties and even its cancer preventing qualities. It can help to promote good health for your heart, aid with your weight loss goals and improve your digestion – but enough of us humans. Thanks to these studies and the increasing popularity of coconut oil these days, people do start to wonder what coconut oil can do for cats and their other pets. Personally, I started looking into it and Lilo showed interest in licking our plates whenever I used an coconut oil in meals. Studies on the benefits for cats can be difficult to find though since different breeds can have different effects to it. As with everything, use information and research as a starting point and confirm with your vet if you’re unsure!

Also Read: Apple Cider Vinegar Benefits for your cat

Is it Safe?

One of the concerns with coconut oil is how safe it might be to give to your pets. Coconut oil is being used for different kinds of human applications, but research is still being done to see the long-term effects of this oil within the human body. Anecdotal stories online suggest that it can be both beneficial and damaging. One blog suggests the fatty acids contained in coconut oil can be detrimental to a cat’s appetite. This does not appear to be true in all instances, as some people have had some positive outcomes giving coconut oil to their cats.

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The conclusion that could be made without solid evidence is that coconut oil has benefits when used sparingly and for specific purposes. Coconut oil is not a cure-all, but it can be a helpful supplement when attempting to find a way to help your beloved cat.

Benefits of Coconut Oil for Cats

Below are some of the main findings of the benefits. Remember these results may vary depending on your cat’s breed and their particular habits.

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Digestion

In some cases, animals that are recovering from illnesses or that have upset stomachs have been documented to have interest in coconut oil. Mixing a dose of oil into their food may help them become interested in eating. Try 1 teaspoon per 10 pounds (at most). They may not require this much and there is no need to keep a regular schedule.

You should watch your cat carefully after feeding them coconut oil. Any changes in their behavior or bodily functions will reveal if the dosage was too heavy or if their body cannot handle the oil.

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Coconut Oil for Cat Fleas

Yet another great solution to tackle those dreadful fleas! No one enjoys the ensuing trip to the vet, the cone of shame, and the eventual skin cream to heal the wounds that the cat cannot lick. Instead of that cream, you can try using coconut oil. It acts as a healing agent thanks to the antioxidants it contains. It will clean the wound and can make the skin stronger so long as your cat does not lick it all away. Veterinarians suggest monitoring your cat for at least an hour after application to ensure they don’t lick it off (if they like the taste). Brush some oil in your cat’s fur to ward off the pests too.

Skin Infections

Coconut oil is not limited to bites and scratches. Just like us humans, cats and dogs can experience dry skin and eczema under the right conditions. To relieve some of the effects, you can apply coconut oil (or if you don’t have any, try honey) to the affected areas. It acts as an antioxidant and can heal the damaged areas.

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Fur Maintenance

Coconut oil has been found to be beneficial to keeping hair looking shiny and full. This is usually done through feeding the coconut oil to your feline friend. Remember that this is meant to help your cat if things are going awry, it is not necessary to keep a regular schedule.

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Health Improvement

We have all had irritable bowels at some point in our lifetime thanks to a bad clam or the more common growth spurt. Our pets can go through the same pains. Some people have been successful relieving this pain using coconut oil. But do not force your pet to eat it if they are not interested. They do not tend to like that.

Coconut oil is a great way to help keep your body healthy in multiple ways. It can also be a great way to keep your cat healthy. The benefits of coconut oil for cats cannot be completely denied, but like most things it should be used in moderation and only when necessary. As more information and studies are released, keep yourself informed to see what coconut oil can do for your furry friends.

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