My cat loves coconut oil. Is it safe to give him some?

Question

I use coconut oil to moisturize my skin everyday. If my cat happens to be around me by the time I'm using the coconut oil, he goes nuts and tries to lick it from the jar. Occasionally I give him just a tiny bit (around the size of a pea) but he eats it and wants more.

The coconut oil I use is extra virgin, organic and cold pressed.

Is it safe to give him coconut oil everyday? If yes, is it good for him somehow? And how much and how often should I give him?

Answer 1

Coconut oil is safe for cats, if given in moderation.

Potential side effects include:

• Upset stomach
• Diarrhoea
• Pancreatitis
• Weight gain
• Allergic reaction to coconut oil

Since you've been letting your cat have small amounts without any allergic reactions, I would think it is safe to assume that he is not allergic.

Coconut oil has many benefits for cats and can be used internally or topically for a wide range of reasons:

Topical

• Treat allergies, eczema, and other skin irritations
• Moisturise dry skin
• Relieve itchiness
• Improve overall coat health
• Act as a barrier against environmental allergens and chemicals
• Cleaning skin folds

Internal

• Treat allergies
• Aid in passing hairballs
• Reduce arthritis inflammation
• Improve bad breath
• Treat mild gingivitis
• Relieve constipation
• Improve stomach health
• Fight bacterial infections
• Improve brain energy

How much?

The research that I've done suggests ¹/₈ to ¹/₂ teaspoon once or twice daily. Here's the catch, extra virgin coconut oil contains 92% saturated fat, or 117 calories per tablespoon, 14g fat and 12g saturated fat. This is a high-calorie supplement. If your cat has existing weight issues, or if he gains weight, it may become necessary to cut back, or reduce his caloric intake elsewhere.

As with anything, if you see any side effects, stop immediately and consult with your local vet.

Sources:

• https://www.petmd.com/cat/nutrition/coconut-oil-cats-it-good-idea

• https://bostonstreetvet.com/2014/12/12/10-uses-for-coconut-oil-for-pet-health/

• https://www.organicfacts.net/coconut-oil-cats.html

Answer 2

I do not think giving your cat some coconut oil is dangerous in any way, and it does have some medical uses in pets.

But it is a type of fat, and you need to keep this in mind so your cat does not gain weight, so please limit the amount you give your cat.

One of the positive effects of giving coconut oil is a softer stool, and it can help your cat to pass hairballs a little easier.

You can use coconut oil on the cat's paws if they are sore, and it can be used to treat the cat's dry skin.

More information about this could be found in external articles: one at bostonstreetvet.com about usage of coconut oil for pet health and another one at organicfacts.com about usage of it in cats.

Remember that only clean, unaltered, food-grade coconut oil is safe for pets.