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Benefits of Coconut Oil for Pets

Katie Wells Avatar
Katie Wells

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Benefits of coconut oil for pets -How to use coconut oil to keep pets healthy
Wellness Mama » Blog » Natural Home » Benefits of Coconut Oil for Pets

I’ve talked at length about how much I love coconut oil and how we use it dozens of different ways at our house. There are some members of our household who also get coconut oil daily, and I haven’t mentioned them much in the past:

Our cat “Peneolope” and our dog “Daisy” (and currently her seven puppies) are also big fans of coconut oil.

Many of the health benefits of coconut oil for humans also apply to animals. From a past post:

  • “Coconuts are an excellent source of nutrition and have healthful meat, juice, and oil. The oil is arguably the most nutritious and has many health benefits. Coconut oil is over 90% saturated fat and has antimicrobial, antibacterial, and antifungal properties.
  • Coconut oil also has antioxidant properties and it helps in the absorption of other minerals.
  • Coconut oil is an incredible source of medium chain fatty acids (MCFAs), which have been shown to have many health benefits.
  • Lauric acid in coconut oil in combination with oregano oil,  has even been found more effective in fighting the staph bacteria than antibiotics. Lauric acid has also been shown to be preventative against some cancers. Coconut Oil is over 40% lauric acid, the richest source naturally available.”

We’ve used coconut oil with our pets for years. I started researching ways to use coconut oil for pets when our cat went crazy trying to eat food from our plates every time I cooked with coconut oil.

Turns out that coconut oil can help aid pets’ digestion, improve their coats, help prevent infection and more. Carnivorous animals like cats and dogs would have consumed a high amount of saturated fat in the wild and the beneficial fats in coconut oil are a great way to make sure they are getting enough in their diets. Our pets also receive a partially raw meat diet to help keep them healthy.

Doginton Post offers some ways to use coconut oil with pets:

“It can be given internally or applied externally, and can provide remedies for many skin infections. It can disinfect cuts and improve your dog’s general skin and coat condition, making it healthier. Wounds also heal faster with coconut oil, and it helps to deodorize your dog’s skin and clear up some rashes as well.

And unlike most herbal products that are good for your dog’s health, coconut is something that your dog will most probably love to eat. They will most likely gobble up the coconut oil and not be too picky with it. Just as humans can get a bit nutty for coconut, so can our beloved buddies. Mix it with their food – it has cured many picky eaters.

Many vets and researchers today are recommending the regular use of coconut oil for dogs and many other pets as an excellent source of nutrients, which keeps your dog in good health.

The recommended dose is pretty easy; just give a teaspoon of coconut oil per 10 pounds of dog, or you can give a table spoon per 30 pounds. Start with about 1/4 the recommended dosage and build up to the recommended level over 3-4 weeks, as sometimes flu-like symptoms can appear if you hurried it right away.”

How to Use Coconut Oil for Cats and Dogs

We give our pets coconut oil in their food every day and use it externally on their coats. Here’s what we do:

  • Our cat gets a teaspoon a day in food (we started with 1/4 of a teaspoon and worked up over a month)
  • Our dog (about 55 lbs) gets 2 tablespoons a day in food (we started with 1 teaspoon and worked up over a month)
  • To help ward off fleas, both get brushed with coconut oil every few weeks, especially in summer
  • For any dry skin or skin issues, we use coconut oil (or honey) on the skin as needed
  • Nursing puppies get coconut oil added to first foods when they start eating

What Coconut Oil to Use?

We order our coconut oil from here. Pets seem to actually prefer their pure coconut oil which is also their most economical option. Any unrefined coconut oil will work for pets though. Try it… they’ll love it!

Other Pet Treats and Food

If you want to make homemade treats for you pets, these dog treats and these cat treats use coconut oil and your pets will love them! Or if you are searching for a more natural pet food option that is shipped directly to you, check out Nomnomnow.

Some brands of the best brands of cbd oil for dogs use coconut oil as a carrier too.

Learn more about how we do Natural Cat Care & Holistic Alternatives in this post.

Do you use coconut oil with your pets? How do you use it?

There are many ways to use coconut oil for pets to improve health and soften their coats. Most animals love coconut oil so it's easy to add it to their diet.

Katie Wells Avatar

About Katie Wells

Katie Wells, CTNC, MCHC, Founder of Wellness Mama and Co-founder of Wellnesse, has a background in research, journalism, and nutrition. As a mom of six, she turned to research and took health into her own hands to find answers to her health problems. WellnessMama.com is the culmination of her thousands of hours of research and all posts are medically reviewed and verified by the Wellness Mama research team. Katie is also the author of the bestselling books The Wellness Mama Cookbook and The Wellness Mama 5-Step Lifestyle Detox.

Comments

337 responses to “Benefits of Coconut Oil for Pets”

  1. Tishana Avatar
    Tishana

    What about the saturated fat tho? …for all of us animals!

    I have a friend who used it with her older dog who had horrible skin conditions. It worked great on the skin, but the dog developed chronic digestive distress until they stopped the coconut oil.

    Reply
    1. Frederica Huxley Avatar
      Frederica Huxley

      Coconut is one of the best saturated oils that all mammals need to thrive! Recently all the 1950’s scaremongering about saturated oils has been totally discredited.

      Reply
  2. Kay Avatar
    Kay

    We use coconut oil with a lot of our pets. I give it to my dog who has an old leg injury that flares up on occasion.

    I also bathe our hedgehog with a little coconut oil in the water to help with his dry skin. I used it on rescued guinea pigs when they had red feet.
    And our rats absolutely go crazy over the stuff. I rub it on their cage bars. They are entertained for hours licking it off. Their coats seem better whenever they have it on a regular basis. It’s adorable because they will grab little chunks of coconut oil and nibble at it, and they steal them from each other.

    Reply
  3. Chantel Avatar
    Chantel

    I would love some more posts about natural pet care. What do you feed them? My dogs and cats are all on grain-free diets but would love to do some raw stuff especially since we have lots of local farmer resources. Also, do you use anything besides coconut oil for fleas? I tried some essential oil mixes but they did NOT work so i went back to Frontline.

    Reply
    1. Grampa Avatar
      Grampa

      I feed my nine dogs raw chicken about 4-5 days per week.
      The big dogs get a leg quarter and the little dogs get a wing.
      Raw bones are good for them…but not cooked bones.
      I have been doing this for about 6 years now. The dogs love it, they get to chew and tear and crunch up the bones. It keeps them happy, their teeth cleaner, their jaws strong, their poop is drier and not as smelly as dog food poop. For old dogs with fewer teeth, I chop up the wing with a machete. That is also a good way to get one to start eating chicken when they are not used to it…chop it up on top of their regular dog food. Most dogs will not need to be taught what to do!

      Reply
    2. Kelly Avatar
      Kelly

      Try the book ‘Give your dog a bone’ by Ian Billinghurst – it has great information for a raw food/natural diet. However some of the oils he recommends could be improved upon, try coconut oil instead as recommended in this post 🙂

      Reply
    3. Rachel Avatar
      Rachel

      The Raw Life on youtube also has a lot of good information on raw diets and the different types. I’ve learned a lot from Janiece, and once I get my dog, I’m going to be feeding it a raw diet.

      Reply
  4. MaidMirawyn Avatar
    MaidMirawyn

    We have several cats (our last rescue ended up being pregnant!), and one of them has been nuts about anything coconut since he was about four months old. Flour, milk, oil, fresh, or dried, he loves it. As others have said, he tries to lick me every time I put coconut oil on my skin! We just thought he was weird, but gave him a little bit as a treat. Guess we’ll be giving it to all the kitties!

    He also adores melon – especially Santa Claus melon – as well as banana, pineapple, and baby spinach. If I drop anything while making smoothies, it’s probably gone in seconds!

    Reply
  5. Irene Avatar
    Irene

    I don’t have any pets currently, but I have heard from my classmate who has a dog that coconut oil is just effective on injuries on dogs as it is on humans. BTW, do you feed your pets a raw food diet? There are grains and other toxic chemicals in commercial pet food, and dogs and cats are about as meant to eat grains as people are, if not less.

    Reply
  6. Aimee Avatar
    Aimee

    People have told me to give my cat oils ( like castor) to help with his hairballs, and I wondered if coconut would be better. What’s funny is when I put it on after a shower he licks me incessantly on my legs!

    Reply
  7. Michelle Avatar
    Michelle

    I have considered using coconut oil for our pets but haven’t made the leap. Our elderly cat has hyper thyroid and thus an already fast metabolism. I have been concerned that coconut oil although a great way to add in healthy fats would also continue to speed up her metabolism. Any thoughts?

    Reply
  8. Julie Avatar
    Julie

    I just received my order of Coconut Oil in the mail today from Tropical Traditions as you recommend. OMG, best coconut oil EVER. The quality, the smell, so superior and I have always purchased high quality brands. This is tops.
    They sent a free book and in it they mentioned uses for animals. Our 9 year old lab needs additional support for his muscles and ligaments. Then I come to this post today. Message received. Thanks so much!

    Reply
  9. Stacey Avatar
    Stacey

    Thanks for posting this, I was waiting for a doggy post! I started brushing my dogs teeth with coconut oil because I don’t want to use dog toothpaste from store and baking soda didn’t seem like good option. He use to have a stain forming on his back teeth on one side but the build up is GONE since I switched to coconut oil. Vet is always amazed how good his teeth look.

    Reply
    1. CJ Quibble Avatar
      CJ Quibble

      Thank you for the comment that was left about brushing your dog’s teeth with coconut oil. I was also apprehensive about using baking soda since it can be toxic if ingested and dogs lack the ability to swish and spit (although it would be funny if they could). I just tried some with our “little” Jack Russell and he loved it.

      We also haven’t had much luck finding a natural commercial option for dog toothpaste. Those products tend to have grain alcohol (moonshine) and, or sorbitol (diarrhea enhancer), not to mention some of the other less pronounceable ingredients.

      Reply
    2. Christine Avatar
      Christine

      Don’t their coats get greasy and attract dirt if you brush them with it? How exactly, do you brush them with it?

      Reply
      1. Gwen Wykle Avatar
        Gwen Wykle

        How do you keep the cats from being So greasy? They look terrible!

        Reply
        1. Michelle Avatar
          Michelle

          i have two cats and have started using coconut oil on them for flea repellent

          i heat my coconut oil up so its in liquid form and use a fine mist spray bottle to put a little in my hands and massage the oil int to the fur of my cats. not enough to soak them, but enough to have a good light coating all over them.

          then i follow up by brushing, both with the grain of the fur and against the grain, with a fine tooth comb right after the applying the oil and the following day.

          between the brushing (to help keep the hair from matting and to help distribute the oil) and the cats licking themselves; i noticed the their fur went from greasy and nasty looking to slick, shiny and soft with a very light and faint pleasant odor.

          doing it this way, the cats coats look awesome, but i noticed 2 fleas on my kitten after 4 days and re-applied the oil ^_^ hope this helps

          Reply
      2. LYNNE LOVE Avatar
        LYNNE LOVE

        It actually absorbs quite quickly I even use on my super dry scalp before bedtime and no stains on the pillow cases! My Mr. Muggles AKA Muggsie we do this every night it relaxes him no itching and he will run to bedroom at bed time and wait for me so he can get his coconut oil!

        Reply
      3. Penny Czebotar Avatar
        Penny Czebotar

        Vinigar is a natural intifungal for pets and humans. So to spray your fur baby first it will start working on whats causing the itchy skin if it’s not algery related, and then follow it up with coconut oil which helps the itching immediately when applied to hot spots…

        1) One bottle filled with equal parts vingar & water. Spray down your fur baby and brush through.

        2) Then apply Coconut oil to their hot spots, and massage the rest of their body with it.

        3) Then put a tblspoon over their food everyday.

        Hope this helps for these itchy issue(s)… Let us know how it works for your fur baby.

        Penny Czebotar

        Reply
    3. debi Avatar
      debi

      Coconut Oil is excellent for human teeth. in Aryvedic Practices it was called oil
      pulling . I went to the Dentist yesterday he knows how I am with my dog’s teeth
      I spray colloidal silver after I brush my dogs teeth I heard it was good for plaque
      I use it also.
      He told me about a study his office is doing with ten patients using coconut oil.
      I googled it . Coconut oil is supposed to be extremely good for bacteria in human mouths
      so why not in our pets !

      Reply
    4. Jan Avatar
      Jan

      it’s the very best to brush doggies teeth with! you will notice they are whiter, stay that way longer and breath is fresh. Plus, they love the taste, versus all the other doggie tooth products they balk at. So easy!

      Reply
  10. Mary Anne Avatar
    Mary Anne

    So glad to come across this! My sweet 13 year old Yorkie, Max, has had skin allergies for about a decade. I keep his food/shampoos/environment as natural as possible. I currently give him small amounts of steroids when it gets real bad, and it makes his skin smell funky. I cannot WAIT to get home to try this on his fur (and his dinner)! I keep his hair cut short. The longer the hair, the more oily and itchy his skin gets. Any relief he can get will be appreciated! His little sister Ellie, will be glad to get a little of my body moisturizer on her food tonight, too!! As usual – thanks so much for the information!

    Reply
  11. Ashlee Avatar
    Ashlee

    My dog had horrible skin issues. It took forever to figure out why. It ended up being an allergy to flea saliva. It was awful and she constantly itched, red belly, and was just miserable. Finally, we started bathing her with coconut oil and giving her some in her food and problem solved just like that.

    Reply
    1. Lynette Avatar
      Lynette

      Where can you buy coconut oil? My dog has a bad skin problem and nothing I’ve tried has helped. He lost all of his hair and we thought it was mange and was tested and came up negative for mange. His skin is so dry and he itches and bites himself constantly. Omega 3 with fish oil has helped some but he isn’t completely healed. My vet decided he has a severe immune deficiency. Can you buy the coconut oil in stores or does it have to be ordered through some company? I have never seen it anywhere. Thanks for any help you can give me!

      Reply
      1. Seti Avatar
        Seti

        No idea where you live, but in some European countries, and I mean Western Europe which is what I know, it can be found in many food stores (overseas foods section) or even smaller shops run by immigrants in larger towns selling food from their (tropical) countries. This might not be the case for smaller towns, though.

        Personally I buy it at health stores, where it’s extremely easy to find even in smaller towns, and they can order it for you so they’ll have it in 1-2 days. In that kind of stores you can also find coconut oil from different brands and most if not all of them certified NGM, ecological, raw, cold pressed and all those little seals that confirm it’s as natural as possible.

        If you don’t live in Western Europe, Google has the answer!

        That being said, I’ve just discoverd this blog and LOVE it. But please change the font size and colour in the box where we write, it’s really tough to see what I’m typing without straining my eyes.

        Reply
        1. Draper Avatar
          Draper

          I buy a large container at Sam’s Club too. It runs $17. I’m a boxer mom of 7 & I use it for their health & we’ll being.

          Reply
          1. robin pascoe Avatar
            robin pascoe

            I have a boxer/bulldog mix thay has cushings syndrome she is 10 yrs old and herfur and skin are a mess eould this help her she also has a younger brother how do calculate how mu bc h to give them

      3. ena Avatar
        ena

        My cat, Stella had a similar problem. She was scratching and pulling out her hair. The vets could not figure v out what was causing this. Some wonderful man at our local n pet store recommend taking her off of grain cat foods. That was it! Try going gain free and then add coconut oil to the food and fur. Good luck!

        Reply
      4. Shanelle Avatar
        Shanelle

        They carry it in the organic section of my local grocery store (Hannaford) and they also carry it in Walmart (I found it right next the the olive oils). Hope this helps!

        Reply
      5. christie Avatar
        christie

        I had a similar situation with my dog when I adopted him- the vet treated him for allergies, thyroid condition, tested for mange- all to no avail. He was still a mess of itchy, raw, scaly patches of missing fur. My poor little guy was miserable. I tried so many natural products as well as raw diet, etc., with no success. Finally took him to a veterinary dermatologist, who biopsied the problem areas and diagnosed him with an autoimmune condition called Pemphaegus, which is similar to psoriasis. She put him on cyclosporine 100mg, which he gets to this day, 6 years later, and it’s the ONLY thing that keeps his skin under control. I feed him a high quality cooked fresh food, and supplement his diet with either fish oil or coconut oil, which helps him get the meds less often, but he can never go off of it. Sometimes it takes a combination of medication and natural methods to really wipe out a difficult issue. I hope some of this information is helpful and good luck to you and your furbaby! 🙂

        Reply
      6. Maritza Avatar
        Maritza

        I get mine at Costco, it’s extra Irvin Kirkland brand sold in the vitamin section, two 32oz jars for $23.95.
        It’s awesome for pets and everyone in your household!

        Reply
      7. Jane Avatar
        Jane

        I had been looking for Coconut Oil for some time. I had wanted it for making soaps but mostly for cooking. I found it in the cooking oil section at the local WalMart store. I was VERY shocked and that is where I am able to get it now. We live in a fairly small town and to drive 50 to 100 miles to get supplies just isn’t possible and my husband just can’t abide by ordering on line!!

        Reply
      8. Sandy Trim Avatar
        Sandy Trim

        we found it at Walmart in the oil section of groceries

        Reply
      9. Buffy Avatar
        Buffy

        I get mine at Costco. 54 ounces for $16.99. Worth EVERY penny!! Also available at most grocery stores. GOOD LUCK 🙂

        Reply
        1. Brandy Hosmer Avatar
          Brandy Hosmer

          My cats would lick me like crazy after using coconut oil on my legs. After looking it up to see if it was ok for them I found you can use it for hairballs too. I haven’t had to buy hairball preventative since using coconut oil.

          Reply
      10. Chris Avatar
        Chris

        My dog had problems that sounded just like yours. His was so bad that his ears turned black and crusty and bled. Body was totally covered in red rash with hair loss. We thought it was mange. I bathed him in sulfur soap and rubbed coconut oil over every troubled area, especially his ears every other day. Was almost totally healed in a week!!!!! I’m a believer!!!

        Reply
        1. kim Avatar
          kim

          My dog has a rash under his front legs (arm pit area) vets say he is allergic to everything but he only gets a nasty rash underhis front legs. Any way I rubbed coconut oil on him and he stayed bright red..how long did it take to help? Did it look sore the first couple of days.
          Thank you

          Reply
        3. Linda Campbell Avatar
          Linda Campbell

          What an amazing testament and such a simple product but when you don’t know what to turn to it can feel unsurmountable.
          I actually use it as a body moisturizer as I have very dry skin in the winter and when I stop it’s obvious but I think I just got mine in the grocery store it was a good international grocery store where are those and the kind I bought it was made in the UK and exported to Canada. Comes in a great format for 10 and it’s in a solid state but quickly liquefies once you start working it with your hands. I don’t know that I want to rub it all over my dogs skin and body because it will come off all over everything not to mention my other dogs will be licking him to death lol. I think I’ll go with the ingestion route to get started it’s just my female cavalier king Charles spaniel and I want to have answers if it happens to any of her puppies as I stay touch with people that buy from me. Anyway great news for a natural product! So glad to hear the dramatic improvement for your dog love hearing those success stories!

          Reply
      11. Barbara Avatar
        Barbara

        You can probably find it in any grocery store. I even found two different brands in the Walmart grocery section.

        Reply
      12. Mashell Avatar
        Mashell

        Amazon has excellent prices and free shipping if you (spend $35 ) for coconut oil.

        Reply
      13. shelby Avatar
        shelby

        any grocery store in the aisles of either baking goods or imported / exported items. I buy mine at Albertson’s in California

        Reply
        1. Connie Davis Avatar
          Connie Davis

          You can buy it at Kroger in the shortening/olive oil area for $5.29 for a pint jar (Mason jar sized). Very little is needed to use for yourself as cuticle oil. Will be buying it for my 8yr old Bishon who has just started excessive itching under the tail area. I express his anal glands as sometimes I feel this is what is the problem is in that area. However, he now has some red, irritated areas on other places of his hindquarters. Never knew that dogs could get a “poultry allergy” as I know that vets will put dogs on chicken and rice diets for digestive issues. Will let you all know of how this works on my Bubba’s itchy skin.

          Reply
      14. anny Avatar
        anny

        I get Coconut Oil at my local Kroger store….they have it in the natural food section for about $10.00 a jar – I also saw the Kroger brand for about $8,.00.

        Reply
      15. Ritana Avatar
        Ritana

        I buy Nutiva brand organic extra virgin coconut oil at Costco. It is over 2 quarts in size and cost less than $20.00! I use it in so many ways. I’m so happy to hear that I can use it to help my chahuahuas.

        Reply
      16. susan Avatar
        susan

        I buy through Tropical Traditions, good prices – Highly recommended and often there are sales, tow for price of one and sometimes free shipping.

        Reply
      17. Patti Valentyne Avatar
        Patti Valentyne

        Not sure where you live, but I get mine from PetValue. Comes in a jar. It is a little pricey there. I am currently trying to find some pure, organize somewhere else. But I. The meantime, good pet stores should carry it.

        Reply
      18. kathy pulfer wishard Avatar
        kathy pulfer wishard

        I got mine at Costco at what I felt was a reasonable price!

        Reply
  12. Beth Avatar
    Beth

    We recently adopted a 7 year old cat and he has dandruff. I’ll be trying adding a small amount of coconut oil to his food, and rubbing some coconut oil on his coat.

    Thanks for the information!

    Reply
    1. anna Avatar
      anna

      Beth, we adopted a black cat about nine months ago and her coat was all coarse and full of dandruff. I started rubbing coconut oil on it immediately and her coat improved after only a couple of applications. Now it is much softer, thicker and all the dandruff has gone completely. Just put some in your hands then gently rub it in all over her body

      Reply
  13. Ashley Avatar
    Ashley

    No wonder my girls cant seem to stop licking me after I’ve put coconut oil on my legs! Now I will have to give them their own serving.

    Reply
  14. Amy Avatar
    Amy

    I used to volunteer at a wonderful dog rescue out here in Michigan. We tried really hard to find an economical way to help all the dogs since we worked from our own pockets and donations. No surprise I ended up taking one home (named Penelope funny enough) and she had some allergy issues when my fiance and I moved out into the country (truly the middle of nowhere). I use your homemade shampoo on the dogs (careful around the eyes) and added some coconut or olive oil to it to help her itching. I also started giving her cod liver oil (unflavored, unfermented) and a probitiotic capusle (she usually takes willingly) and shes doing fantastic! We even found a holistic vet that encourages us. The vet bills in our house are extremely low :).

    Reply
  15. kelli Avatar
    kelli

    our elderly cat used to beg for coconut oil. we noticed she liked it when she’d lick our hands after we applied it for moisturizing. she had her own jar and would scratch the cabinet where it was when she wanted some, which was all day! 🙂

    Reply
  16. Tarah Avatar
    Tarah

    I give coconut oil to my cat, Moccasin, because she loves it, but I didn’t realize how healthy it was for her. The only problem is, she loves it so much that whenever I put it on her coat, she licks it off right away!

    Moccasin got a terrible skin infection on her head and neck recently, we think it was some kind of fungus, but after multiple trips to the vet, it was not getting any better (her fur fell out and her head was practically bald). The vet could not tell us what the cause was, and Moccasin could not keep her antibiotics down, so there was not much we could do to help her-except with coconut oil! I kept putting coconut oil on the scabs, along with some apple cider vinegar diluted in water, and FINALLY several weeks later her wounds healed up and her fur is now starting to grow back.

    Thanks so much for this post, Katie!

    Reply
    1. Alice Avatar
      Alice

      Hi I have a black cat with the same issue, he had to have an antibiotic shot because his whole head was raw. Skin scrapes for mites, etc nothing! The vet uses a generic version of Revolution called Paradyne, it’s more expensive than Revolution but it works. Revolution has the same ingredient Selemectin which is what the vet thinks works. Anyway, if I skip a month and use something different he breaks out bad. I started giving him a tiny bit of coconut oil in his food today and rubbed some on him too, I hope this helps, I’ll keep you all posted.

      Reply
    2. Teresa Goff Avatar
      Teresa Goff

      I have heard that coconut oil sdded to my dogs food will help yeast infection in hisears. He is a lab andhas problems with ths frequently.

      Reply
      1. Lynn Proctor Avatar
        Lynn Proctor

        I had a terrible problem with yeast in my cat’s ears. I was using Meow Mix, as they liked it. I could smell the contents of the bag, and I could smell the yeasty smell. I stopped buying it. I now keep my cats off corn/grain foods as much as possible, and bite the cost bullet on grain-free dry food. I have a lot of cats, so this is no small decision. But they eat less of it, so it is probably the same. No more yeast problems. Grains are horrible for pets. Try the grain free food for dogs, or just stay with wet food (a good brand).

        Reply
      2. Vicky Avatar
        Vicky

        I have a GSD that had yeast really bad. He stank! I chnaged to grain free diet and it was gone in two weeks. Also have lab/chow mix with long thick hair. I can’t get the coconut oil to his skin without absolutely soaking her.

        Reply
        1. Sathia Seelan Ramasamy Avatar
          Sathia Seelan Ramasamy

          Hi there, my dog is suspected with fungal infection. It has been more than a year she has developed this. Could you let me how you got rid of this problem? Is it because of food she is allergic to? Please advice me. Thanks.

          Reply
  17. Jill Hoffman Avatar
    Jill Hoffman

    Love this article! I’m about ready to adopt a new furry friend and have been researching uses for essentials oils for dogs. I love coconut oil and use it every day so these tips are awesome – thanks!

    Reply
  18. Katherine Avatar
    Katherine

    How do you brush it through their coats? Do you put the oil on the brush? Or directly to their coat? I’m having a hard time envisioning how to do it.

    Reply
      1. Chrissy Avatar
        Chrissy

        Try putting it in a small spray bottle after warming it to a liquid, it will go on more evenly. Spray the pet with the oil and brush through, or spray on the brush if the sprayer scares your pet

        Reply
        1. donna Avatar
          donna

          Will the coconut oil help my dogs hair? I just notice that she’s been losing her hair from scratching.. I bought some organic shampoo and conditioner to see if that would stop the scratching.. If you think the coconut oil will help bring back her hair and stop the scratching.. I’ll run right out and get some..Thanks for any advise

          Reply
          1. lana Avatar
            lana

            Also the itchy skin and hair loss is likely from a chicken product…read everything and do not buy anything with chicken in it…natural balance duck and potatoes is wonderful dry food no chicken at all in it.

          2. Joy Avatar
            Joy

            I am having the same issue with my 16lb. Lowchen. I have changed her food but see seems to be eating thr fur off her back paws. I am about to take her to a Pet Dermatologist to have allergy tests. I would think that if I put the coconut oil on her paws she would just want to eat it off which would defeat the purpose.

          3. Karen Mitchell Avatar
            Karen Mitchell

            If the dog is losing hair, infections etc, you need to treat the dog from the inside out. The dogs immune is weak, so strengthen it. Work on the gut, add good bacteria, treat for leaky gut and then you can’t go wrong

          1. SIMMY Avatar
            SIMMY

            no as then it wont be pure,,if you leave it were its warm it turns into liquid bet defo do not water it down..

      2. anna Avatar
        anna

        i wondered about this- just looked it up. For a couple of weeks now I have noticed my cat run and lick the floor after I shower for coconut oil drops that fall off my hands. Then I stated to lay drops for her. Not really sure about health benefits for cats tho I intuited that it could not be bad. So thank you for the confirmation and other great ideas. Now I will be more intentional and try it on her coat which is beautiful and lustrous already:-)

        Reply
        1. Jan Avatar
          Jan

          my kitten LOVES coconut oil and will lick the dog’s fur (which has the oil in it)!.

          Reply
      3. kyoko Avatar
        kyoko

        Hi, I see a lot about coconut oil. But what about coconut meat? I bought some by accident and i’ve been giving her a little at meal time and she really likes it. But I dont know if its good, shes starting to get bald spots and I’m not sure if she’s allergic to coconut or if its fleas that bother her.

        Reply
      4. Nicole Avatar
        Nicole

        When using the spray approach how much do I use? Just a misting over her coat? Would the oil stain my couch?
        I am excited about using this— I never thought about using it for Fiona!

        Reply
    2. Mikki Avatar
      Mikki

      I have 3 small dogs, after a shower I use coconut oil while I would be putting it one one time I dropped a piece here and there and the dogs went nuts wanting to eat it- now I purposely drop about a dime size for the each, they love it… I also have a chihuahua who was having allergy reactions of dry skin, it got really bad 2 yrs ago, I used 1/2 C white vinegar + 1/2 C warm water pouring it directly onto the scratched area then applied first to my hands to melt it through then rubbed it into her coat– gone and never got like that again, especially since now I apply the coconut oil every time she begins to scratch!! WORKS WONDERS!!!

      Reply
      1. Mashell Avatar
        Mashell

        Your recipe does not include coconut oil ( just vinegar and warm water). My dog has the same dry condition and was told to change his food/protein (the small bag cost $50). Would you please let me know how you used the coconut Oil?

        Thank you

        Reply
        1. LINDA KAYE HOOVER Avatar
          LINDA KAYE HOOVER

          My dog has holes in his skin about the size of my thumb print on both hips from where the vet gave him fluid in him yesterday because he was dehydrated from throwing up after taking new meds for being anemic for the 2nd time, this yr…how is he getting this & would cocunut oil help him?? Or warm vinegar & water help the holes on his skin or use cocunut oil to stop his itching, my poor baby?? The vet has him on royal crown $30.00 a bag of food for his gastrointestinal stomach problem & said “no people foods”…I only gave a few bites of brisket meat, or peperoni, or canadian bacon…because he was lifeless. He got bit by a spider or some insect…we don’t know??..he takes a monthly heartwarmer pill & wore a flea collar to.
          All at age 5 yrs old chilhuahua..
          Help?! Help!! Linda Kaye for Casper…over $550.00..of vet bills so far..

          Reply
          1. Tami M Avatar
            Tami M

            Royal Canin is not considered a high-end dog food by several reputable sources and is not a favorite within the pet parent community. If you check the ingredient list, the first ingredient that is listed is rice. Ingredients are listed by how much of it is in the food. Even though rice is a considered a decent substitute to corn (which dogs cannot digest), the first ingredient should be a meat. Dogs can’t digest most grains and often develop allergies.

            I would switch him over to a grain-free diet or limit his foods. There is a chance that he’s allergic to rice or any grain that the food might have. Try the Merrick or Blue Buffalo brands to start, they have limited ingredient products that you can buy at most pet stores.

            I hope this helps and that your little Casper feels better!

          2. Gus Avatar
            Gus

            Go to raw feeding community on Facebook and learn how to feed your dog a raw diet. My little dog has improved very much on this diet.

          3. Amy Avatar
            Amy

            I know it’s been a little time since this post, but curious how Casper is feeling.
            As far as the anemia, I’m not sure what could be the exact cause of that, but I know my cat was having problems with anemia & finally after hundreds of dollars also spent, they vet tested her for feline leukemia & found that she did have it & was causing her anemia.
            I’m kind of confused as to what caused the thumbprint holes in Casper’s hips. At first you said that it was from where the vet had administered fluids to him, then a little later you mentioned spider bites? Were the thumbprint sores there a while, or just grew that size within a few hours?
            The sores sounds like, to me, what could possibly be ca-mrsa. Pets can get it too & people think the skin infection is from a spider bite. (It probably started from a sore he had created from scratching) It’s a bacterial flesh eating disease that needs strong antibiotics depending how bad it is. If it’s not completely healed up yet, I’d have the vet tk a culture of it first, then go from there.

          4. Dee Avatar
            Dee

            Sounds to me like you may need a new vet. The holes should not have been so big, sounds like the skin tore. This is just my personal feeling. This is an older post but hoping you fur baby is doing better.

          5. Kay Avatar
            Kay

            You might also remove the flea collar and see if that helps. They can be toxic. Most come with warnings not to touch them with bare skin, dont let dogs sleep with you if wearing one, keep children away from and not touching the collars. I just read up on them extensively. I would think the chemicals in the flea collars could/would interact with any meds your dog is getting.

      2. Susan Avatar
        Susan

        Why did you apply vinegar and water first, what is the purpose of that.? Can’t you just use the coconut oil alone ?

        Reply
        1. Danielle Avatar
          Danielle

          Viniger is a natural antiseptic, it will cut down on the oil in the skin & is also a natural bug repellant for both animals & people.!!

          Reply
        2. Penny Czebotar Avatar
          Penny Czebotar

          Vinigar is a natural intifungal for pets and humans. So to spray your fur baby first it will start working on whats causing the itchy skin if it’s not algery related, and then follow it up with coconut oil which helps the itching immediately when applied to hot spots…

          1) One bottle filled with equal parts vingar & water. Spray down your fur baby and brush through.

          2) Then apply Coconut oil to their hot spots, and massage the rest of their body with it.

          3) Then put a tblspoon over their food everyday.

          Hope this helps for these itchy issue(s)… Let us know how it works for your fur baby.

          Penny Czebotar

          Reply
    3. paijon Avatar
      paijon

      I massage it in with my hands. It’s the Organic Expeller Pressed Virgin Coconut oil from Whole foods Market. It melts into his skin and coat. I make sure I get it where fleas hide. His under arms and under hind quarters. His bum area all the places fleas hide. I get his back belly legs under his neck is a flea hide out. The fleas exit quickly they die not right.away but their slow and you can catch them at that point. I drown them in a bowl. Coconut needs to be applied often but it will keep fleas off. He is sleeping now without fleas bothering him. Front line quit working and chemicals are dangerous.

      Reply
      1. jeannie Avatar
        jeannie

        i used frontline plus and its not working any longer, and my bulldog has skin allergies now from either the fleas or the frontline, dermatitis is what it is. so i am going to try this to see if it works, she suffers from dry skin as well. i have her on a flea pill now. but still scratches alot

        Reply
        1. lisa Avatar
          lisa

          my dog was scratching the area under her arms, and it was getting very irritated, like it sounds like you’re Bulldog had also. I melt the coconut oil in my hand and then rub it into the affected spots and they no longer are dry itchy and irritated looking. It should work pretty well for him too. Even if he takes it in by licking it, it’s still good for him. I now give it to her and my cats to ingest internally.

          Reply
          1. Michelle Avatar
            Michelle

            I’m sure you’ve got it covered but have you considered food allergies? I’ve discovered my dog is sensitive to all poultry (including eggs), beef, lamb… Sea food seems to be the only safe meat. Fleas seem to wreak more havoc if his skin is already being bothered by the food allergies. I think they exasperate the existing irritation and render flea treatment less effective?

          2. karen keener Avatar
            karen keener

            Our dog gets allergy shots every 3 weeks and is on certain foods , no meat or wheat, he can have fish. He is having a terrible time this month with the hot spots.I might try coconut oil.I’ve been using animal scents from yleo. It seems to help heal it up till he scratches again.

        2. Kimberley Avatar
          Kimberley

          I just got a refund from the flea pills that the vet prescribed for my mini longhaired dashound, Zoebelle. It worked for 2 weeks then she was miserable with the itching and scratching again! I called them, they told me to give her another dose (early), so I did and she still was itching and scratching like crazy. Today I’m going to give her a flea dip and start her on coconut oil too. The pet store told me to give fish oil for dry skin, so I googled about dry skin and the coconut oil came up!

          Reply
        3. Sheri S Avatar
          Sheri S

          I rescued 2 white Persian cars (sisters) that were both heavily matted. One is blind in one eye and very shy. I used manicure scissors and cut the mars out using my fingers as a gauge. Then rubbed organic coconut oil (costco) on my hands and rubbed it in their fur.
          The fur continues to grow out and you just keep clipping until they are mat free. Now they are mat free and their costs have less shedding. No groomer appt filled with shave and shears and stressed out cars.

          Reply
  19. Katie Avatar
    Katie

    Thanks for the great information! My dog goes nuts whenever I use coconut oil, and I’ve been giving her a pea sized amount, since she’s only five pounds. It has helped with her dry skin in the winter, plus she absolutely begs for it, which is a bit unusual for her.

    Reply
    1. annie Avatar
      annie

      I noticed that when I put in on my legs the dog somehow knows. She runs over and starts licking my legs clean?

      Reply
      1. Sandra Avatar
        Sandra

        That’s what my cat did too. Started 7 years ago. Now my boy is 18 and demands his medicine twice a day. Keeps his coat so soft and shiny. Also keeps him limber as he can still jump up onto my bed.

        Reply
  20. Janet Avatar
    Janet

    Hi Katie,
    We use coconut oil and I never thought to use it with our pets. Thanks!

    Reply
    1. Suzanne Utts Avatar
      Suzanne Utts

      My husband has been having memory problems, so I started cooking his food with coconut oil. 2 tbsp per day is well tolerated and it has improved his memory and mood considerably. I use it on his toast, or in his oatmeal and when I fry eggs. I also put it on his toast. I try to divide it up so that he gets some on vegetables at supper time. There is a great book I have been reading ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE, WHAT IF THERE IS A CURE? It turns out that there are other diseases whose victims can benefit from coconut oil… type 1 and 2 diabetes, PCOS, MS and others. Get the book at your library and pass on the info. There are MANY MANY people who can be helped!

      Reply
      1. Ellen Avatar
        Ellen

        My 4 yo kitty Leia loves it! I put a couple of pea-sized pieces on my hand (or liquid depending on our room temperature here in Massachusetts), she loves licking it off! (I wash my hands after too because it gave me a bit of a skin reaction and washing fixes that)

        I give her the coconut oil usually twice a day when I’m using it for myself after a shower and before bed. I read several sources saying it is believed to be safe and good for their kidneys and digestion… her fur is so soft and she is very energetic. She is fit and weight is within recommended range (we keep a watchful eye to keep her healthy and happy plus of course regular visits to the vet).

        I also read Dr Mary Porter’s book on coconut oil and Alzheimer’s which is a great book (about benefits for the human brain) and that’s when I started buying and using it for myself.

        — Ellen

        Reply
      2. Triscina Avatar
        Triscina

        Thanks I am going to try this I put it on my and I love it. My Grandmother has Alzheimer’s I am going to see about giving her some.

        Reply
      4. Sanjay Avatar
        Sanjay

        Can you please elaborate on benefits of coconut oil for diabetic patients or recommend a link that I can read? Yes coconut oil has proved to be effective on my cocker spaniel his hair is much softer and shedding has reduced considerably.

        Reply
        1. Christina Thompson Avatar
          Christina Thompson

          One comment above mentions a book… “There is a great book I have been reading ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE, WHAT IF THERE IS A CURE? It turns out that there are other diseases whose victims can benefit from coconut oil… type 1 and 2 diabetes, PCOS, MS and others.” Maybe check that out…. I am definitely going to do more research too.

          Reply
    2. Beverly Cole Avatar
      Beverly Cole

      I found our recently that if your cat has asthma a 1/4 tsp a day can help to reduce the inflammation in their air way and reduce the attacks.

      Reply
      1. Zan Lustig Avatar
        Zan Lustig

        Anybody tried this for cat asthma ?our cat has just been diagnosed with it.

        Reply
        1. Erika Avatar
          Erika

          I have not taken my cat to get diagnosed as of yet however My poor little baby has what I think are asthma attacks since I have been giving him coconut oil ( which he absolutely loves) I have yet to see any further attacks. I am a firm believer of natural products when I first found my fur baby he was 6 weeks old and outside laying in the rocks. I took him inside he has conjunctivitis, wing worms, has a UTI I believe (could not urinate) . I did some research and found diluted apple cider vinegar (the mother kind) cured all the things listed above.I tried it for about a week and it worked!!!!!! mind you I took my fur baby to the vet all for them to not listen to my concerns and prescribe me ONLY wing worm medications even though I told them about my cat not urinating and crying in the litter box. By the 2nd vet appointment my cat was cured of all things I mention above. Random I know but hope this helps.

          Reply
    3. wayne Avatar
      wayne

      How much would you give to a 70 pound dog and does it give yor dog diearrea

      Reply
      1. Libby Avatar
        Libby

        According to the numbers given above, a 70 pound dog would get 2 1/3 Tablespoons(7 teaspoons). I haven’t used it for my dog yet, but I haven’t heard of any intestinal problems with it.

        Reply
      2. Ashley Avatar
        Ashley

        It can cause it if you use too much too quickly. That’s why they say start at about 1/4 of their weight first and gradually increase but it’s just bc of the greasy oils that your dog would react to that with too much too soon.

        Reply
        1. Christina Thompson Avatar
          Christina Thompson

          Also, coconut is a natural laxative, so I am sure some of those properties carry over to the oil as well. I know I have to be really careful when I change my dogs diet at all. I will be starting with just a tiny bit and working up to the full teaspoon (he is only 8.5 pounds). But, this is good stuff for them!

          Reply
      3. Monika Avatar
        Monika

        Hi there my 2.5 years old golden retriever start to break his nails very often lately. They became very week and already lost 3 . Could I start using Coconut oil to make his immune system a bit stronger? Thanks Monika

        Reply
        1. Natalie Johnson Avatar
          Natalie Johnson

          Try food grade and I emphasize food grade as there’s a difference diatomaceous earth. In both animals and humans it’s a great parasite killer AND an added benefit is that it builds collegen. It’s great for hair, skin, and nails. Look it up online. I give my dogs a 1/4 tsp and the other 1/2 tsp mixed with their food. Dosage is by weight. Natural flea and tick killer plus will help with coat and nails.

          Reply
      4. Benny Avatar
        Benny

        Yes. Explosive, but healthy. You may have to fend off other pets from eating it. Good luck.

        Reply
    4. Jeaneen McDuffie Avatar
      Jeaneen McDuffie

      I have seizure and some memory loss so I can use it too. But for my pet do you have to cook the unrefined oil to kill the bacteria before giving it to your pets (yorkie)? I heat coconut oil when its unrefined for use with my cosmetics.

      Reply
        1. Alaina Avatar
          Alaina

          I would love to know what you use for your dogs ear infections. I currently woke up to my dog shaking his head and I looked in his ear and yep definitely has an ear infection didn’t see any ear mites. I tried getting the nasty stuff out with a warm wash cloth (my dog hates me touching his ears lol) after that I warmed up some organic coconut oil and with my finger I rubbed it on the outside and a little on the outter inner ear and then put a couple drops in his ear. Hopefully this will work! But I would love to hear any other options

          Reply
          2. Sonya Avatar
            Sonya

            Not a good idea to use coconut oil in dogs ears, unless you clean it out thoroughly. If the oil is left in the ears, the bacteria will increase and the infection will get worse. I found this out by using the coconut oil a couple of times in my dog’s ears when he was itchy. I had to take him to the vet and they found the infection was bad. Vet told me not to use the oil in the ears and that if I ever do he said I would have to make sure I clean it out good.

          3. Michelle Avatar
            Michelle

            Look up the recipe for blue ear power solution to learn abo
            ut and get the recipe for it to prevent and
            cure ear infections. My vet initially gave it to me for my dogs now I make my own.

      2. Karen Mitchell Avatar
        Karen Mitchell

        Always raw for pets. No cooking. See my other comment on coconut oil. x

        Reply
    5. Lori Avatar
      Lori

      Look into golden paste or if you have a Facebook acct search for turmeric users group. Fantastic info and support on there

      Reply
    6. Leslie Montgomery Avatar
      Leslie Montgomery

      OMG! I just washed my pooch with (BLUE) DAWN dish detergent and white vinegar mix, then afterwards I combed her hair, still seeing fleas. I dried her as much as I could with a towel, then I took pure, unrefined , cold pressed coconut oil and just started rubbing it every where. I then brushed and combed her fur, fleas started jumping and running every where……Thank you so much for this information site. I use this product for myself, but I did not know it was good for pets, I’m so happy!

      Reply
    7. Cheryl DeKoevend Avatar
      Cheryl DeKoevend

      Hi Katie.
      I have a golden retriever/great Pyranese mix. She is about 90lbs. She came to me unspade. I am saving up to have her spade.
      I give her diatomaceous earth to help deal with the fleas. I have a cat that has flea isses as well. The cat scratches her ears and causes them to bleed. 1) Can I rub the cats ears with coconut oil? 2) Can I give them avacado oil?

      Reply
      1. Tee Avatar
        Tee

        yes, i fostered a feral cat with wounds on his face, ears and neck, from scratching mostly i guess. just after a daily rub of VCO on cotton ball, there was visible improvement. i saved the inner ears for last. i got busy with work so was able to do that only once but 3 days after i observed there was almost no dark spots left and minimal scratching 🙂 i think he never got used to the rub so he would try to squirm away and lick it off but that ingesting was also good.

        do try it and let us know how it works for your little one 🙂

        Reply
        1. Cheryl DeKoevend Avatar
          Cheryl DeKoevend

          By VCO do you mean virgin coconut oil? Are there any anti-bacterial properties to Avacado oil?

          Reply
          1. Rachel Avatar
            Rachel

            You don’t want to give avocado to dogs – it’s poisonous to them.

        2. Linders Avatar
          Linders

          Do you think I could add coconut oil (liquified) to cat’s bath water, as long as the water is warm enough to start with? Would that help with softening some of her very dense/hard matted hair spots? I’m just sick with what to do for my lil fur baby, she’s a 13 yr olf domesticated Persian. I’ve trimmed most of her hair (top of back, down sides as far as I can, and around neck and head), and the rest (belly, legs, chest) I have to work out the severe hair mats first I think before I can even think of cutting it! Any input from anybody would be appreciated. Unfortunately, I had to resign to keeping our baby in our “shop”, which never gets below 38F degrees, and we try to keep it warmer most of the time, but she doesn’t see well, and we let her wander cuz that’s when she seems most happy, but she’s gotten SO dirty and has matted hair to the point where I will possibly have to take her to the vet or groomer to get shaved, and that is so traumatic. Help!

          Reply
          1. Mariah Greenwoid Avatar
            Mariah Greenwoid

            I have asthma. Coconut oil helps reduce the inflammation in the airways. It’s a GREAT anti-inflammatory for arthritis too.

          2. Lreist Avatar
            Lreist

            Groomer here! You want to avoid getting matted fur wet, as that just increases the tightness of the matts. I’m here to learn about coconut oil myself, so I’m not sure if that would make a difference, but I would maybe try using it as a detangling aide rather than bathing the cat– like lubricating your comb, maybe.

      2. John Avatar
        John

        Avocado can be harmful for dogs if it is ingested causing renal problems. As for cats I’m not sure. I think the avocado oil should be okay for external applications on your dog though, you should do some research on whether it is absorbed and metabolized through the skin. A little should be fine, even if ingested, but I wouldn’t use it for continuous treatment.

        Reply
        1. Rosemary Avatar
          Rosemary

          I wouldn’t use any avocado oil at all. If they lick it could cause serious problem.

          Reply
        2. Karen Avatar
          Karen

          If you’re referring to the avocado fruit, this isn’t the case, It’s the seed that is toxic. Flesh is okay. I’m caucious with using any oil.
          What has avocado got to do with coconut oil anyway?

          Reply
      3. Karen Mitchell Avatar
        Karen Mitchell

        Katie, you give her diatomaceous earth to help deal with the fleas? This does nothing for fleas, you’re wasting your product

        Reply
      4. Robyn Avatar
        Robyn

        Yes to coconut and olive oil, but no to avocado oil. I wash just reading about this recently. No avocado oil for our pets.

        Reply
    8. Jase Avatar
      Jase

      My pets absolutely love it. I can already tell they are getting back to their old selves. I always sneak a spoonful for myself before I put it in their food.

      Reply
      1. Nevaeh Lumiere Avatar
        Nevaeh Lumiere

        I work for a veterinarian. 99% of cats and dogs that scratch the outside of their ears have an internal ear infection. They simply can’t stick their paw inside their ear canal to scratch that horrible itch! Some people report its only “dirt”. It’s actually mite feces or an infection.

        Reply
        1. Andrea S. Avatar
          Andrea S.

          My dog was shaking her head a lot so I checked her ears for mites..No mites but I cleaned them anyway and got junk out. I took her to the vet and she had a bacterial infection!!!! One ear worse than the other..They gave me an ear wash to use 3xd and some medicine to put in her ears 1xd .for 10 days. .I’m so glad I took her to the vet & didn’t assume that she had mites…

          Reply
          1. Karen Mitchell Avatar
            Karen Mitchell

            I refuse to take my dog to a vet, unless it’s a holistic vet. My pet suffered for 3 years. The vets prescription (2) ointment never healed her, so I took it into my own hands and did a lot of research.
            There’s a lot of useful information out there, but you need to be careful though, as finding a good trusting source.
            I found a few solutions to try, of course for different ailments. I went for one which was for yeast infection and with just one clean, she showed a 60% improvement. After two weeks, she was cured. Now I use the solution as a maintenance.

            If the ear doesn’t heal and it comes back, I’m willing to share my solution.

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