Can dogs or cats eat coconut?

Nutty, sweet and packed full of nutrients, coconuts are a real tropical treat! But is coconut safe for our pets? Coconut flesh, oil and milk are all considered non-toxic for both cats and dogs, but there are a few things you need to know. We're going to explore coconut in all its different forms, so let's start with dogs first before moving on to our feline family members.

Can dogs eat coconut​?

All the edible parts of a coconut are safe and can be offered to your pet in moderation. It's essential not to give your dog too much, however, as coconut is relatively high in fat, which can lead to stomach upsets and weight gain. So, think of it as an occasional treat, rather than it making up a large part of their everyday diet.

Coconut flesh, milk and water must all be offered plain, with no extra ingredients. Things like sugar, artificial sweeteners and flavourings are not healthy for dogs, and so coconut products containing these must be avoided. Fresh, raw coconut is the healthiest option for dogs.

Let's look at a few coconut specifics in more detail...

Can dogs drink coconut water?

Coconut water is ok for dogs as an occasional treat, if served plain and fresh. It is low in calories compared to other parts of the coconut, containing electrolytes and other useful nutrients. The problem is that many commercial offerings have unhealthy additives, so these shouldn't be given. Your dog should always have fresh drinking water available.

Can dogs have coconut milk?​

Dogs can have coconut milk in small amounts. Most vets would advise sticking to plain water however, as coconut milk is high in fat. This can cause stomach upsets or even trigger an episode of painful pancreatitis in susceptible dogs. Additional calories in your pet's diet could also lead to weight gain over time too.

Is coconut meat good for dogs?​

Research is ongoing, but coconut meat (or flesh) is rich in healthy fats, including lauric acid, which may help with cardiovascular health, immune system function and skin condition, as well as being a source of energy.

However, it's easy to accidentally go overboard with this tasty snack. The high fat content of coconut compared to other fruits means that it should be offered in very small portions only, to avoid stomach problems and weight gain. To offer it to your pet safely, make sure that any coconut shell has been removed and that the meat has been cut into bite-sized pieces. This will help to reduce the risk of your pet choking.

Can dogs eat coconut rice​?

It’s not recommended. While both rice and coconuts are not toxic for dogs, coconut rice is often fried in oil or served with other foods like curry, which won't be healthy for your pet.

Can dogs eat desiccated coconut​?

Dried fruit, including coconut, is very calorie-dense and high in sugar. With the water removed, it's easy to accidentally overfeed desiccated coconut, which could lead to stomach problems and weight gain, so this one is best avoided.

Can dogs have coconut oil?

Many owners have heard of coconut oil, and its use in promoting skin and joint health. Most evidence for this is anecdotal and so a degree of care needs to be taken. Coconut oil must only be offered to your dog in small amounts, as any high-fat product could trigger stomach issues or pancreatitis. If your pet is suffering from a skin or joint complaint, then we would always recommend seeing a vet before reaching for any home remedies.