It would seem that coconut oil has become one of the hottest used products in the past few years. This oil is like the superman of oils. Not only can it be use for cooking and baking, it can also be used in a person’s daily routine. Whether it’s used as a makeup remover, a moisturizer, a first aid item, or to make brownies, coconut oil has become the king of oils in households. Personally I use coconut oil as a facewash (it’s non-greasy!), a sunscreen, a first aid item, a moisturizer, a makeup remover, a deodorant, a cooking oil, a chapstick, a lotion, a cleanser, the list goes on and on. My most recent use, however, has been the daily use for my pets! I’ve actually had to double up on the amount I purchase because it’s my answer for nearly everything.
With a variety of uses, it stands to reason coconut oil can expand its reign to animals. My own dogs and cats get coconut oil daily, sometimes in their food, in a toy, and other times it gets brushed through their coats. The options are endless! Not only does coconut oil do great things for them externally, it also does wonders internally. Coconut oil is full of essential nutrients that their bodies need. It helps with digestion and aids in replenishment of the digestive tract cells. Taking coconut oil internally can show improvements externally too, such as huge improvements in itchy skin and or a dry coat. 
According to research, the coconut is full of great nutrition ranging from the meat itself to the water it produces. The oil is approximately 90% saturated fat and has antimicrobial, antibacterial, antioxidant, and antifungal properties.1 Who knew?! Does your animal have a cut or a wound? Coconut oil can help with that! It actually improves the natural ability of the body to heal and disinfects. Does your animal have some bathroom troubles and suffers from constipation now and again? Besides getting them adjusted and looking at nutrition, the addition of coconut oil can go a long way. Because of its properties, coconut oil can actually help in the absorption of other products in the body. The lauric acid found in coconut oil in combination with oregano has actually been found to be more effective at fighting certain bacteria than the standard antibiotics.2
Coconut oil is a fantastic source of nutrients and can truly be a perfect addition to any pets diet or daily regimen. As is truth with any product, moderation is key. Coconut oil is a very fatty oil, and overuse can cause you or your pet to pack on the pounds. So how much is enough? The recommended dose is 1 teaspoon for 10 pounds of animal per day. Whether you start slow or become kookoo for coconut oil like myself, adding a bit into your pets daily life will certainly pay off and you will see the benefits almost immediately! 
For more information on what you can do with coconut oil, check out some of the resources that we found helpful below!
1) http://wellnessmama.com/13700/benefits-coconut-oil-pets/
2) http://www.westonaprice.org/health-topics/more-good-news-on-coconut-oil/
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