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By Judyvein Cheng, CPCN, BRNC
Certified pet nutritionist in Singapore
QUICK ANSWER
Coconut oil gives your pet's brain an extra source of fuel. Its medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) are turned into ketones, which the brain can use for energy alongside glucose. That makes it a simple way to support focus and learning in younger pets, and healthy brain function as they age.
How the brain gets its energy
The brain needs a constant supply of energy, and it usually runs on glucose. As pets age, the brain becomes less efficient at using glucose, so brain cells can run short of energy. Ketones give the brain a second fuel source to draw on.
Why diet matters
Many commercial pet foods are high in carbohydrates. On these diets, the body relies mostly on glucose and makes few ketones. A fresh, species-appropriate diet that's lower in carbohydrates and includes healthy fats is closer to what cats and dogs evolved to eat, and supports better brain energy.
How coconut oil helps
A ready source of ketones
MCTs go straight to the liver, where they're turned into ketones that can cross into the brain.
Steady brain energy
Ketones help keep brain cells fuelled, especially as glucose use declines with age.
Rich in MCTs
Virgin coconut oil is one of the richest natural sources, with around 63% of its fatty acids being MCTs.
Benefits at every age
✓ Puppies and kittens: support for learning and development
✓ Adults: focus, alertness and steady energy
✓ Seniors: support for memory and cognitive function. Read more in coconut oil and your pet's ageing brain.
Coconut oil or MCT oil?
Virgin coconut oil is the whole oil, naturally rich in MCTs including lauric acid. MCT oil, like CocoTherapy TriPlex MCT-3 Oil, is more concentrated, which gives a stronger ketone boost.
FROM MY EXPERIENCE
I gave Wangcai CocoTherapy TriPlex MCT-3 Oil in the mornings, mainly for its antifungal benefits. But I knew it was supporting his brain health at the same time.
That's what preventative care is about. Brain health is always good to start young. Don't wait until problems like seizures or cognitive decline appear before you do something. Rotating in some brain and cognitive support every now and then is a simple way to look after your pet's brain for the long run.
How much to give
Coconut oil: 1 teaspoon per 4.5kg (10lb) of body weight daily. Start with about ¼ of that and build up over 2 weeks. For sensitive pets, start with just 2–3 drops.
MCT oil: it's more concentrated, so follow the product's guidance and start even more slowly.
Frequently asked questions
At what age should I start?
The earlier the better. Brain health is always good to start young, as part of preventative care. Coconut oil can be part of your pet's diet from a young age, and you can rotate in MCT oil every now and then for extra brain support.
Can cats benefit too?
Yes. Introduce small amounts slowly.
Which coconut oil should I use?
Choose an organic, cold-pressed virgin coconut oil that's also therapeutic grade. Not every organic, cold-pressed virgin coconut oil is. I recommend CocoTherapy Organic Virgin Coconut Oil, which is therapeutic grade.
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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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