Coconut Oil into Dog and Cat Food

Getting Coconut Oil into Dog and Cat Food
by Sarah Shilhavy
Health Impact News

Coconut oil is well known for being rich in health benefits for people, but this product is also highly beneficial for dogs and cats as well, and for pretty much all of the same reasons it’s great for humans. Incorporating coconut oil into cats’ and dogs’ lives both topically and internally will undoubtedly lead to dramatic improvements in their overall health.

Coconut oil is commonly used topically for skin and hair conditioning and moisturizing, as well as a balm for cuts, burns and other wounds. Coconut oil works just as well for animals for these topical treatments. In addition, coconut oil is a natural repellent to fleas and ticks just by smoothing some over the animal’s coat like you would a leave-in conditioner. Adding coconut oil to your animal’s diet will also give them many, if not all of the same health benefits it does for people, including, but not restricted to: bone health, cardio vascular health, weight management, diabetes, and digestion.

Getting started is easy.

For dogs:

Large-medium sized breeds: 1 measuring teaspoon to start, gradually increasing to 1-2 full, generous tablespoon size (measuring or eating type) over the course of 1-2 weeks. Add to food once a day and serve.

Small-toy dog breeds and puppies: 1/2 – 1 measuring teaspoon to start, increasing to 1 full tablespoon over the course of 1-2 weeks. Add to food once a day and serve.

For cats:

Adults: 1/2 measuring teaspoon to start, increasing to 1-3 teaspoons over the course of 1-2 weeks. Add to food once a day and serve.

Kittens: 1/4 measuring teaspoon to start, increasing to 1 teaspoon over the course of 1 week. Add to food once a day and serve.

Discernment and common sense must be used in determining what is best for your pets. An overweight dog or cat will need more, while a healthy and fit one won’t. Kittens and puppies grow quickly and may not need as long of a transition period. Coconut oil will help digestive health, but it also may loosen stools. If that happens, simply cut back and go slower on moving their intake up and/or add pumpkin purée.