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By Judyvein Cheng, CPCN, BRNC
Certified pet nutritionist in Singapore
QUICK ANSWER
They do different jobs, so it isn't really a choice of one over the other. Coconut oil provides medium-chain fats for quick energy, plus lauric acid for natural antimicrobial support. Fish oil provides omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) for joints, skin, brain and a balanced inflammatory response. Many pets benefit from both.
How they're different
| Coconut oil | Fish oil | |
|---|---|---|
| Type of fat | Saturated, mostly medium-chain (MCTs) | Polyunsaturated, long-chain omega-3s |
| Key components | Lauric, capric and caprylic acid | EPA and DHA |
| Main role | Quick energy, antimicrobial support | Joints, skin, brain, inflammation balance |
| Stability | Very stable, resists going rancid | Fragile, oxidises easily |
What coconut oil does
Quick energy
MCTs go straight to the liver to be used as fuel.
Natural antimicrobial support
The body turns lauric acid into monolaurin, which helps fight bacteria, viruses and fungi.
Gentle on digestion
It's easier on the pancreas than most fats, which makes it useful for pets who can't tolerate other oils.
Skin, coat and dental care
Both inside and out.
What fish oil does
Joint support
Omega-3s help pets with stiff, ageing joints.
Skin and coat
Less dryness and shedding, and a softer, shinier coat.
Brain and eyes
DHA supports brain and eye health, especially in puppies, kittens and seniors.
Inflammation balance
Omega-3s help balance the omega-6 fats that most diets are heavy in.
Can I give both?
Yes. Because they do different jobs, coconut oil and fish oil complement each other. You can give both daily, or alternate them for variety. Introduce each one slowly, one at a time, so you can see how your pet responds.
FROM MY EXPERIENCE
BeanBean has a sensitive pancreas, so I first worked out how much coconut oil and fish oil her pancreas could tolerate. Once that was settled, I split them across her meals. Coconut oil goes in her breakfast for an energy boost, since she follows me to work, and fish oil goes in her dinner.
Wangcai didn't have a sensitive pancreas, so I could be more flexible with him. He had CocoTherapy TriPlex MCT-3 Oil in the morning and fish oil at dinner, and sometimes fresh fish with coconut oil in the same meal.
Choosing quality
Coconut oil: choose organic, cold-pressed virgin coconut oil that's also therapeutic grade, like CocoTherapy Organic Virgin Coconut Oil.
Fish oil: freshness matters most, because fish oil oxidises easily.
✓ Choose capsules or glass bottles, never plastic.
✓ Close the cap tightly after each use and store it away from heat and light.
✓ Throw it out if it smells strongly fishy or rancid.
Oxidised fats can do more harm than good, especially for pets with a sensitive pancreas. Read more in my guide on coconut oil and pancreatitis.
Frequently asked questions
Which is better for itchy skin?
Both can help. Fish oil supports the skin from within, while coconut oil can be fed and applied topically. Many pets with skin issues do best on both.
My pet has a sensitive pancreas. Can they have fish oil?
Yes, but go carefully. Coconut oil is often the gentler choice for sensitive pets. If you use fish oil, introduce it very slowly, find the amount your pet can tolerate, and make sure it's fresh. Splitting oils across different meals, as I do for BeanBean, can help too.
Can cats have both?
Yes. Most cats tolerate both well. Start with small amounts and introduce one at a time.
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This article is for educational purposes and isn't a substitute for veterinary care. If you're concerned about your pet's health, please seek professional advice.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Judyvein Cheng, CPCN, BRNC
Judyvein is a Certified Professional Canine Nutritionist and Certified Raw Nutrition Coach for Cats & Dogs, and the founder of JOOF Holistic Pet. Her journey began with her Frenchie, Wangcai, and today she helps pet parents in Singapore take a root-cause approach to their pets' health.
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