The uses for virgin coconut oil are unending. It’s great on my toast, in my skillet, even as a coffee creamer substitute. But did you know that this easy-to-find, all-natural item is an inexpensive treatment for many pet issues? Here are the top 10 ways coconut oil can help dogs and cats:
Antifungal: Applied topically, coconut oil can reduce and prevent pesky yeast infections, even in the ear, groin, or toe area. And no need to worry about it being ingested – just reapply!
Boost Metabolism: Because of its high lauric acid content, coconut oil can boost metabolism and increase energy, resulting in a trimmer, healthier pet.
Prevent chapping and treat cuts and skin infections: A little smear of coconut oil on your dog’s paw pads before a walk can reduce scrapes or minor cuts, and also speeds the healing of minor nicks, cuts and even sunburn.
Aid Digestion: Pets with sensitive tummies can take a bit of coconut oil with their meal to reduce indigestion.
Prevent and kill parasites: Coconut oil can even kill giardia, one of the nastiest bugs affecting dogs and cats. It can also kill fleas when rubbed on problem areas and allowed to set in.
Condition coat: Rub a dab of coconut oil between your palms then give your pet a good massage. The oil serves as a wonderful conditioner. (It’s the number one ingredient in some conditioners, like PetCare Sciences 5-in-1 Coconut Oil Shampoo.)
Boost immune system: The lauric acid makes coconut oil similar to mother’s milk, increasing immunity against bacterial and viral infections.
Improve thyroid function: Taken internally, coconut oil can increase thyroid stability.
Enhance flavor: Pets usually love the flavor of coconut, so a little coconut oil stirred in your pet’s food can coax a picky eater to take that first bite.
Reduce allergies and hot spots: Regular doses of coconut oil have been shown to reduce allergic reactions. Hot spots and yeast flare-ups can also be treated with coconut oil topically.
Ready to get your pet started on the road to good health with delicious coconut oil? Feed your pet about 1 teaspoon of coconut oil per 10lbs of body weight each day. Build up the dosing starting with about 25% of the recommended dose and increase over the course of about a month. Coconut oil is one of the yummiest and cheapest ways to address a variety of issues your pets may have.