People tend to cook with sunflower oil since it is not heavy for a human being. What of dogs? Is sunflower oil edible by dogs, too? The response is yes; Sunflower oil in little quantities can be harmless and beneficial to dogs. It is rich in healthy fats and can make your dog have better skin, improve his/her coat and enhance their condition. But, like other new foods, it must be given with caution and in moderation.
Here in this blog, we will discuss the effect of sunflower oil on dogs, the intensity of its dosage and the conditions under which it should be administered. We will even go ahead and compare it to other oils, such as vegetable oil, and even go ahead and answer whether it is safe for the cat. Should we discuss the advantages and safety of sunflower oil for furry friends?
Sunflower Oil Benefits for Dogs
Sunflower oil contains a lot of fat content popularly known as omega-6 fatty acid. These are the ones that help in ensuring you take good care of the skin of your dog as it will be soft and the coat shiny. In case your dog has a dry, dull coat or itchy skin, then adding about a teaspoon of sunflower oil into their diet may be beneficial.
It also contains vitamin E, which is good for the immune system of your dog. Vitamin E is beneficial to their body in terms of the prevention of damage and the maintenance of healthy muscles and the heart.
Sunflower oil is easily digestible and forms part of superior dog foods. There are some pet owners who actually utilize it as a natural means of imparting additional energy to their dogs.
However, too much of it can either cause gain or stomach upset. That is the reason why you never should give large doses, but ask your vet.
Is Sunflower Oil Safe for Dogs?
Absolutely, sunflower oil can prove to be harmless to dogs in case it is administered in minute amounts. It is not poisonous and it can be found in dog foods. Most vets even prescribe it for the health of skin and coats.
However, it can lead to troubles like any other oil or fat when taken in excess. When your dog consumes surplus sunflower oil, it may cause stomach sickness, diarrhoea or weight gain. It may also pose a reaction to pets with sensitive stomachs or allergies.
Before incorporating any new thing into the diet of your dog, always consult your vet, especially oils. They will assist you in determining the amount that is safe within the context of the size, age and health status of your dog.
Don’t have flavored or seasoned oils- these oils may contain poisonous substances such as garlic or onion, which are very poisonous to dogs.
How Much Sunflower Oil Can You Give a Dog?
In case your vet permits, you can feed your dog sunflower oil in small quantities. Most dogs can take approximately 1 teaspoon of garlic per 20 pounds of their weight each day in case. Gradually add less every time to analyze the response of your pet.
The oil may be incorporated in the food of your dog. It also provides healthy fats that may solve dry skin, dull coat, or itchy patches. However, do not do too much oil as this may cause stomach upsets in your dog.
Older or sick dogs, senior dogs, or puppies may require more or less. Since that is the reason why it is advised that you speak to your vet first.
Also, do not fry dog food or cook in a spicy sunflower oil, but just plain clean oil.
Substitutes for Dogs Sunflower Oil
Do not worry, even though it may not be suitable to feed your dog sunflower oil. Your alternatives to healthy oils include other healthy oils. Fish oil will do wonders for your dog’s skin and joints. It contains high quantities of omega-3 as well as fat that softens the fur and alleviates the itching.
The alternative is coconut oil. It will aid your dog, skin, coat and digestion. Others even like the taste of it!
The second option is to use flaxseed oil, which is very enriched with good fats which act on the dry skin and hair.
Take your vet into consideration before feeding any oil to your pet.
The dogs might be allergic or may have health complications which require special attention.
Never apply any oil in larger quantities. Excessive amounts will lead to weight gain or upsets.
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