Why you should be putting coconut oil on your dogs at the moment – and it's not to make them smell a bit nicer either

The Sun

3 days ago

FROM cooking to skincare, coconut oil is a staple in many households - and it can be useful for dogs too.
Coconut oil is said to have natural flea-repelling properties and can be applied to your dog's skin.
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Fleas can be a nightmare for owners, causing allergies and discomfort for canines.
And with some chemical flea control products being toxic for pets and humans - causing side effects such as skin irritation - many owners seek natural alternatives.
Using coconut oil for fleas on dogs is a popular natural remedy, and works by suffocating the fleas on contact, rather than by repelling them like a chemical treatment.
The lauric acid in the oil is thought to be the key component that coats the flea's exoskeleton, making it unable to move or breathe.
And now could be the time to use it, as fleas thrive in warm conditions, which is why their activity tends to peak during the warmer months, typically from spring through to early autumn.
HOW TO APPLY
You should use high-quality, unrefined, organic, virgin coconut oil for your pet, and ensure it is at room temperature.
Scoop one to two teaspoons, depending on your dog's size, into your hands and rub them together.
The warmth will melt the oil, making it easier to apply.
Then massage the oil into your dog's coat and skin, and pay close attention to areas where fleas tend to hide, such as behind the ears and on the belly.
You can use a flea comb after applying the oil, with the oil making the fleas sluggish, allowing you to more easily remove them.
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You should let the oil sit on your dog for at least eight hours to suffocate any fleas, and you may wish to add a shirt on your dog to prevent them from licking it off.
After this time, give your dog a bath and use gentle shampoo to remove the oil and dead fleas.
OIL DRAWBACKS
Coconut oil is generally considered a short-term solution for an active flea infestation, and it is not a reliable preventative or a long-term cure.
You should note that it only affects the fleas that are currently on your dog and won't prevent new ones from jumping on.
As dogs will inevitably lick some of the oil off, ingesting too much can lead to an upset stomach or diarrhea.
You should also always consult with your veterinarian before using any new product on your dog, especially if they have pre-existing health conditions like pancreatitis or skin sensitivities.
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OTHER NATURAL SOLUTIONS
Coconut oil isn't the only natural solution you can try.
Diatomaceous earth is a natural powder that can be used to kill fleas on contact.
To control flea infestations, you can sprinkle it on your dog's coat, their bedding, and the surrounding areas.
Meanwhile, citrus sprays made from lemon or orange essential oils offer a natural, safe, and pleasant-smelling alternative for repelling fleas on dogs.
PREVENTION
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Preventing flea infestations is always better than treating them, and a few simple habits can go a long way in keeping your furry friends itch-free.
Regular grooming is a key preventative measure, as it allows you to detect flea infestations early, making them much easier to treat.
Additionally, maintaining a clean environment is crucial.
By keeping your home, including your pet's bedding and surrounding areas, tidy, you can significantly reduce the risk of flea infestations taking hold.
Finally, you can use natural flea preventatives like essential oils, dietary changes, and holistic approaches to help keep fleas at bay.
Vet's advice for getting rid of your dog's fleas
ACCORDING to Sean McCormack, Head Vet at tailored pet food firm tails.com, the adult fleas you see on your dog, only represent about five percent of the total problem.
The remaining 95 per cent consists of flea eggs, larvae, and pupae that are hidden in the environment.
To effectively control the issue, you must address this larger problem.
Sean advises using a vet-prescribed flea treatment every month without fail, as any gap in treatment allows female fleas to lay more eggs.
He also recommends a thorough "blitz" of your home, which includes:
Hoovering extensively, paying attention to skirting boards, cracks, and crevices.
Immediately disposing of the vacuum cleaner contents to prevent re-infestation.
Hot-washing all furniture coverings and bedding.
Using a vet-approved environmental spray to kill any remaining eggs or larvae.