If you’ve seen your cat frequently urinate with blood stains in the urine, there’s already a serious problem with the feline—probably a urinary tract infection. Coconut oil for cat urinary tract infection is gaining ground as a home remedy, but is it safe?
Coconut oil for cat urinary infections is safe due to its antimicrobial health properties. It’s due to these antimicrobial properties that virgin coconut oil fights off bacteria and reduces inflammation in the cat’s urinary tract. Moreover, coconut oil moisturizes and soothes the infected tissues in cats, speeding up recovery.
In the rest of this article, I’ll dive more into the topic of coconut oil for cat urinary tract infection. I’ll discuss the benefits of coconut oil for cat urinary infections, whether it’s safe for cats, and how it can help your cat recover. Keep reading!.
Is It Safe to Put Coconut Oil on Cats?
It’s safe to use coconut oil on cats, although in small quantities. Remember that your cat’s welfare comes first. If she’s prone to allergies, you want to apply the coconut oil with caution and stop it altogether when severe allergic reactions occur.
The following are the important factors to consider before using coconut oil on your cat:
1. Allergies
Avoid putting coconut oil on cats that show allergic reactions. If your cat is sensitive to coconut oil, you might make things worse by exposing her to the oil.
Perform a test by applying it to a small area of the cat’s skin. If no reactions occur, your cat is good with the coconut oil.
The ASPCA advises pet parents to be cautious with coconut oil since it can cause stomach upsets and diarrhea.
Coconut oil contains saturated fats that can trigger pancreatic inflammation in sensitive cats.
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2. Quantity
The quantities of coconut oil you use on your cat are essential. By and large, use the oil in moderation because of its high-fat content.
When using it topically, apply only in small amounts on the skin, and the same should be the case when mixing it in food. For example, you can use ¼ to ½ teaspoon of coconut oil on your cat once daily.
When the cat is grooming, she licks her fur, taking the oil in her system. If you apply excessively, she will likely ingest most of it. Yet, cats don’t ingest fats as readily as proteins – leading to gastrointestinal problems like diarrhea and stomach upsets.
Additionally, your cat could suffer from increased hairball formation when she ingests too much coconut oil as she grooms.
Hairballs can become obstructive, leading to gastrointestinal issues.
3. Coconut Oil Purity
Pure and natural coconut oils are the best for your cat.
While scenting or flavors may feel attractive to humans, your cat may respond differently. Additives enhance coconut oil flavor and taste but may eventually harm your cat’s health.
Meanwhile, make sure that you stick to coconut oil that has the following qualities;
- Unscented
- Unflavored
- Pure
- Unrefined
Such coconut oils have the highest purity. They are what your cat needs for the treatment of any ailment.
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4. Open Wounds
You can apply coconut oil around and not directly on the wounds. This is because direct application can introduce foreign substances to the wound, resulting in irritations.
Make sure to consult your veterinarian for guidance on using coconut oil safely on wounds.
5. Veterinary Recommendation
The most important consideration is your vet’s assessment and advice.
Before administering medications, including home-based solutions, always let your vet know what you plan to do.
Remember that this remedy is no substitute for veterinary care, and the vet could have a different way of doing things in the best interest of your cat.
Better yet, your vet will inject expertise to ensure appropriate and safe care of your animal during coconut oil application. They will also advise you on the correct dosage to avoid overdosing or underdosing your cat.
How to Use Coconut Oil for Cat Urinary Tract Infection
You can use coconut oil for cat urinary tract infections through oral administration and topical application.
Oral Administration
When preparing to administer the coconut oil orally, be patient and calm. Don’t show anxiety; your impression can send impulses to the cat, making her freak out.
Also, ensure you have another person to assist you if you have never done this. Have your cat’s favorite treats nearby to motivate her to take on follow-up medications.
That said, here are the steps to administer coconut oil for cats orally:
- Prepare the coconut oil medication. It should be in the liquid state. Warm up solidified oil by placing the container in lukewarm water.
- Choose a quiet and comfortable area to keep your pet calm. Wrap your cat in a towel and let someone assist you in holding the cat gently and carefully.
- Measure the required quantities; start with ⅛ or ¼ teaspoon for your cat. Remember that giving your cat a lot of the oil on the first attempt can cause health issues like liver conditions. You also want to see if your cat could react negatively to the medication.
- Basically, you need to measure a dosage recommended by the veterinarian.
- Gently hold your cat’s head carefully, tilting it upward to facilitate a straight path for the movement of the coconut oil down the throat.
- Administer the coconut oil from the side of the cat’s mouth. Aim to put it at the back of the cat’s throat for efficient swallowing.
- Close the cat’s mouth and wait for her to swallow. You can encourage swallowing by gently rubbing her throat and nose or blowing slightly on the nose.
- Time to use treats; give her the treats to distract her impression and create a positive from the medication you just offered.
- Monitor the cat to follow up on the reaction.
- Don’t force her if you try to give a second round and she refuses.
Besides using a teaspoon or a syringe to give your cat coconut oil, consider mixing the medication with her food. That’s if the cat refuses to take the coconut oil through the first method or shows signs of distress after administration.
When mixing coconut oil with cat food, follow the next procedure;
- Measure the appropriate amount; start with small quantities like ¼ 0r ½ teaspoon. You can increase over time depending on your cat’s response.
- Mix with your cat’s wet or dry food thoroughly. If it’s wet food, stir the mixture to enhance even distribution.
- Give your cat the food as usual. Often, the cat will start by smelling the food. Finishing that food may be problematic if she notices unfamiliar smells or tastes – the reason you should always avoid flavored or scented coconut oils.
- Encourage consumption if your cat seems to hesitate on the meal. For example, use a treat she loves most, or warm up the food to enhance the aroma.
- Monitor the progress of your cat.
Topical Application
Topical coconut oil application is effective for cat skin conditions and injuries. Here’s how to use coconut oil on a cat’s skin:
- Take some coconut oil in your hands and rub it to soften it up. Make sure you take just a tiny amount, like a pea-sized pinch, for a start.
- Gently apply on your cat’s skin, rubbing over the affected area. You should apply a thin layer, avoiding sensitive areas like eyes, ears, or open wounds.
- Use an Elizabethan collar to restrict the cat from licking her fur, thus ingesting the coconut oil.
- Monitor your cat for allergies and general progress.
Benefits and Risks of Coconut Oil for Cats
Studies show the health benefits of coconut oil in humans, although there’s limited research when it comes to coconut oil benefits in cats.
Here are the health benefits your cat will gain from using coconut oil:
- Coconut oil helps fight bacteria: Thanks to its antibacterial properties, the lauric acid, coconut oil fights off bacterial infections.
- Coconut oil has anti-inflammatory properties: This helps prevent urinary tract inflammation, relieving your cat from pain and discomfort.
- Coconut oil maintains a healthy skin coat: Your cat will benefit from coconut oil’s moisturizing and soothing properties. Hence, eliminates skin irritations while promoting quick healing.
- Coconut oil boosts your cat’s immunity: The lauric acid in the oil is believed to strengthen a cat’s immune system.
Risks of Coconut Oil for Cats
- Coconut oil has a high-fat content which can lead to pancreatic inflammation.
- Coconut oil can cause stomach upsets and diarrhea when ingested in large quantities.
- Coconut oil also contains high calories that may lead to obesity issues.
- Coconut oil will cause allergic reactions in some cats.
- The oil may also interfere with the effective absorption of other drugs.
Always ensure to call your veterinarian for any recommendations when it comes to coconut oil use for your cat.
Is Coconut Oil Safe for Cats’ Paws?
Coconut oil is safe for cats’ paws when used correctly. Generally, it will protect your cat’s paws against bacterial infections and reduce inflammation, while also soothing the areas where it’s applied.
When your cat develops cracked paws, these properties help her not to get infected with bacteria or fungi. Also, the moisturizing qualities of coconut oil soothe the paw, providing relief to your pet.
The basic principle of coconut oil is protecting against foreign materials that may enter through the cat’s ailing paws.
However, applying coconut oil should be moderate. Start with small amounts, like a pinch between your fingers, to avoid adverse consequences if your cat doesn’t respond well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Coconut Oil Safe for Cats Skin?
Coconut oil is safe for cats’ skin when used in moderation. It nourishes and supports the cat’s skin. However, it’s essential to be cautious and consult with your veterinarian before using coconut oil on your cat’s skin, especially if your cat has a history of skin issues or allergies.
Can I Put Coconut Oil on My Cat’s Irritated Skin?
You can put a small amount of coconut oil on your cat’s irritated skin to help soothe the irritation. However, you must never apply coconut oil directly on a wounded cat’s skin as this can introduce bacteria and worsen the situation.
Is Coconut Oil Antifungal for Cats?
Coconut oil is an antifungal for cats when applied topically. Moderate topical application of coconut oil on a cat’s skin can prevent and lower cases of yeast infection in ears, toes, and groin region.
Can Cats Lick Off Coconut Oil?
Cats can lick off coconut oil when grooming if used topically. It’s worth noting that if your cat ingest excessive coconut oil, she risks diarrhea, vomiting, and even obesity.
So, Is Coconut Oil for Cat Urinary Tract Infection Safe?
In the realm of feline health, the debate surrounding coconut oil for cat urinary tract infection rages on.
While proponents advocate for its potential benefits in alleviating symptoms, it is crucial to approach this remedy with cautious optimism.
The scientific community is still in the process of conducting comprehensive studies to ascertain its efficacy and safety for our furry companions.
As a cat parent, you should prioritize consulting with your veterinarian before introducing any alternative treatments, including coconut oil, into your cat’s regimen.
Remember, what works for one cat may not necessarily work for another, and each case requires tailored attention.
