The benefits and properties of coconut oil in dogs are diverse, for that reason it is not uncommon to find this component in a large number of products or as an extra ingredient in certain homemade recipes. While it is true that most use it to improve the appearance of the skin and hair of the dog, there are other advantages that can be very interesting, especially in elderly dogs
Wondering if you could give your dogs coconut oil? The truth is that yes, discover below on our site all the benefits and uses of coconut oil for dogs and start including it in your daily or occasional recipes. You'll be surprised!
Coconut Oil Benefits
Coconut oil, also known as coconut butter, is obtained by pressing the flesh or meat of the coconut. It is a completely vegetable product. The result is a fatty extract, with a high content of saturated acids (lauric acid), vitamins E and K and some minerals, of which we highlight iron. [1]
Coconut butter is white in color and soft in texture, although it can turn liquid when in contact with heat. In addition, it does not oxidize easily, so we can keep it at room temperature for up to 6 months.
Is there such a thing as "canine" coconut oil?
The coconut oil that we can buy in the market, although it is labeled as a product for pets, is the same as that used for human consumption, that is, it does not exist a specific product for dogs.
15 properties of coconut oil
Next we will mention the properties of coconut oil in dogs:
- It is a good remedy to improve the healing of cuts and different types of wounds. [two]
- Helps to hydrate the dog's skin in case of dryness. [1]
- It can be a good support tool in case of allergy or hypersensitivity to improve the appearance of the dermis and the damage caused. The veterinarian should always be consulted before its application. [2] [5]
- Improves the appearance of the dog's coat, which becomes much shinier and silkier. [1]
- It shows a high affinity with the hair's natural proteins, which favors the hydration of the coat, helps prevent hair loss and promotes he althy hair growth. [1]
- Mixed with the shampoo and applied during the bath, it helps prevent the appearance of yeasts, fungi and external parasites, although we also recommend the use of pipettes or collars to ensure total protection against fleas, ticks, lice, mosquitoes and mites. [8]
- We can use a diluted solution of coconut oil and water to sanitize the genitals, anus, legs or ears, as it helps to clean thoroughly.
- Ingested, it prevents different he alth problems due to its antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal effects. [8]
- Improves digestion and absorption of nutrients.
- Provides energy.
- The MCTs found in coconut oil improve brain metabolism, helping to prevent and improve the mental state of elderly dogs suffering from cognitive dysfunction syndrome. [7]
- Accelerates metabolism thanks to easily absorbed fatty acids. [5]
- Reinforces the immune system thanks to the aforementioned lauric acid, which is present in breast milk and activates the defenses of puppies. [1]
- Its application together with a treatment prescribed by the veterinarian prevents the development of eczema. [5]
- The topical application of coconut oil has anti-inflammatory properties, which helps to improve dermis that are inflamed. [5]
Does it have to be extra virgin coconut oil?
In order to enjoy all the benefits of coconut oil, it is essential to opt for a high-quality product, preferably organic, to avoid synthetic components that can cause a skin reaction or intestinal problems.
Coconut Oil Dosage for Dogs
In the case of offering this product included in the dog's diet, we recommend adding one tablespoon of coconut oil once a weekat most, to avoid the side effects mentioned below.
If we use it topically, we recommend heating the coconut oil or purchasing a liquid solution. All you have to do is spread your fingers and apply it directly on the affected spots, although we can also use a spray bottle to spread the mixture throughout the coat without weighing it down.
Coconut oil contraindications
Although coconut oil has many benefits for dogs, it is also important to highlight some of the contraindications of this food.
We can highlight two studies in dogs on the consumption of semi-synthetic diets that included 16% hydrogenated coconut oil for 12 -14 months. The results were worrying: this diet induced the accumulation of fat in the coronary and cerebral arteries. [4]
Regarding human consumption, the WHO and other organizations have warned about the high levels of saturated fat contained in coconut oil, which can lead to the risk of cardiovascular disease, increased body weight or metabolic disordersAlthough these side effects have been detected in people, it cannot be ruled out that they are the same ones that dogs can suffer from, which is why moderate consumption of coconut oil is recommended. [5]
Can dogs eat coconut?
Have you ever wondered if dogs can eat coconut? You should know that yes, because coconut is part of the list of recommended fruits for dogs, due to its high content of water, minerals (calcium, iron, phosphorus, iodine, magnesium…), trace elements and vitamins. However, since it contains sugars, it is always advisable to moderate its consumption and offer small portions once or twice a week.
The properties of coconut for dogs
Apart from providing energy, it is also an antioxidant, remineralizing and moisturizing fruit, and even helps improve blood pressure. [5] We can offer this food to our dog occasionally as a reward or include it in homemade diets.
Where to buy coconut oil?
You can find coconut oil in a wide variety of stores, including online stores. Still, the best thing to do if you're looking for a quality product is to go to a herbolistería, organic store or traditional apothecary. Likewise, we recommend you review the composition to ensure that it is a quality product.
Is coconut oil good for cats?
You have cats? Then you should know that coconut oil is also good for cats They can also benefit from this product, either internally or externally, although not usually be as well accepted as it happens with dogs when we offer it as food. It is best mixed with wet food or included during the preparation of a homemade recipe.
In addition, coconut oil helps to remove hairballs, something very positive, since they can become a problem of serious he alth if they are not expelled.
