COCONUT OIL BENEFITS FOR PETS & ANIMALS
Just because they have paws and a wet nose doesn’t mean animals and pets can’t enjoy the benefits of coconut oil too. If you love your animal or pets, you should consider adding coconut oil to their regimen.
Studies are showing coconut oil for pets have immense benefits not just in a shiny coat, but in their overall health as well.
Coconut oil can do a multitude of things for pets, both topically and internally. It improves breath, makes for a shiny coat, eases joint problems, cleans ears, gets rid of fleas, and much more.
*It’s always good to consult with your vet before adding to or changing your pets diet. Please do so for coconut oil as well.
Health Benefits of Coconut Oil for Animals
BENEFITS OF COCONUT OIL FOR ANIMALS: THE SCIENCE
Many vets and researchers recommend (with certain stipulations, of course) the regular use of coconut oil for dogs and many other pets as an excellent source of nutrients, which keeps your pet in good health.
- The major benefit of coconut oil comes from the fats it’s made of. Coconut oil is almost exclusively (more than 90%) saturated fat and is one of the few foods that can be classified as a superfood.
- MCT’s are coconut oils secret weapon. Medium chain triglycerides (MCT) is a good fat, the kind that provides an array of benefits which include digestion improvement, immune system support, metabolic function that assists with weight loss, skin and coat health and thyroid health.
- MCT is made up of Lauric Acid, Capric Acid, Caprylic Acid, Myristic Acid and Palmitic. Coconut oil also contains about 2% linoleic acid (polyunsaturated fatty acids) and about 6% oleic acid (monounsaturated fatty acids).
- Lauric acid has antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-fungal properties. Capric and caprylic acid also have similar properties as lauric acid and are best known for their anti-fungal effects.
- In addition, MCTs are efficiently metabolized to provide an immediate source of fuel and energy, enhancing athletic performance and aiding weight loss. In dogs, the MCTs in coconut oil balance the thyroid, helping overweight dogs lose weight and helping sedentary dogs feel energetic.
- 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 has antimicrobial, antibacterial, and antifungal properties, as well as antioxidants that help in the absorption of other minerals.
- 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.
- Some dogs could have an allergic reaction as well as other issues, so it’s important to take care and talk to your vet before having your dog use or consume coconut oil.
Here are other benefits that coconut oil has for pets and animals:
HEALTHY SKIN AND COAT
- Clears up eczema
- Aids flea allergies, contact dermatitis and itchy skin
- Minimizes odor
- Reduces allergic reactions
- Creates sleek and glossy coats
- Prevents and treats yeast and fungal infections
- When applied topically coconut oil promotes wound healing
- Also can help with hot spots, dry skin and hair, bites and stings
IMPROVES DIGESTION
- Improves digestion
- Increases nutrient absorption
- Helps with colitis and inflammatory bowl syndrome
- Reduces or eliminates bad breath
- Helps with coughing
“SUPERFOOD” BENEFITS
- Assists with weight loss
- Powerful antibacterial, antiviral and anti-fungal agents
- Balances insulin and promotes normal thyroid function
- Helps prevent or control diabetes
- Aids arthritis and ligament problems
- Helps prevent infection and disease
- Aids in increasing energy