Coconut oil is becoming more popular as people discover the health benefits of cooking and baking with it. Many people now use coconut oil as a moisturizer for their skin and also for a hair conditioner. It is proving to be a very versatile product for people and their pets. It can be given internally or applied externally.
A few reasons for applying coconut oil externally:
- Helps clear up skin conditions like eczema, rashes, or itchy skin.
- Helps improve your pet’s coat – keeping it soft and sleek and decreases “doggy” odor.
- Helps disinfect cuts and helps heal wounds faster.
There are many benefits of giving coconut oil internally to our pets.
Coconut oil is high in saturated fats. Cats and dogs are carnivorous and would have consumed a high amount of saturated fat in the wild. Using coconut oil as a diet supplement is a way to make sure your pet is getting enough saturated fat in their diets.
Coconut oil promotes natural healing – it helps fight bacteria, viruses, and fungal infections and has antioxidant properties. It can also aid with your pet’s digestion.
Feeding Guidelines – When beginning to supplement your pet’s diet with coconut oil, start slow and increase gradually. Giving too much coconut oil too soon can cause digestive and detox issues. The recommended dose for dogs is about 1 teaspoon per 10 pounds of body weight. Initially use 1/4 of the recommended dosage and build up to the full dosage over a four week period. The recommended dose for cats is 1/4 teaspoon per ten pounds of body weight. Again work up gradually to the full dosage. If your cat is finicky about food supplements, you can just put a small amount on their paw. They’ll lick it off and get their coconut oil that way.