Olive Oil for Our Pets?

Did you know that olive oil can be beneficial for our pets too? That’s right! Extra virgin olive oil can do wonders for the health of our dog or cat, and giving it to them is extremely easy - we just need to drip a few drops onto their food.

Here are our top 5 reasons to include olive oil in the diet of your four-legged friend.

• For a Healthier Coat: Rich in vitamin E, omega 3 and phytonutrients such as oleuropein, olive oil will keep our pet's coat shiny and strong. The polyphenols in its composition also have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which reduce dry and flaky skin and restore moisture.
• Better Weight Management: Excess pounds can put our dog or cat at risk of heart disease or cause joint problems. Olive oil can help control weight, thanks to its monounsaturated fats. MUFA (monounsaturated fats) stimulate weight loss by breaking down the fat in fat cells and reduce excess accumulation around the belly. Conversely, if our pet is underweight or suffers from loss of appetite, a few drops of olive oil can make even the driest kibble juicy and aromatic.
• Stronger Immunity: The antioxidants in olive oil improve the immune response of our four-legged friend, helping it fight all kinds of infections.
• Healthy Joints: Together with the antioxidants, the oleic acid found in extra virgin olive oil has an anti-inflammatory effect that helps improve joint health and can reduce pain in pets suffering from arthritis or hip dysplasia. This entirely natural solution is also great for animals that are sensitive to medication.
• Healthy Heart: With its abundant amounts of vitamin E and antioxidants, olive oil can help lower cholesterol and improve circulation. Sometimes dietary supplements with these ingredients can be expensive, and extra virgin olive oil is a natural and affordable way to protect our pet's heart.

Extra virgin olive oil is also an excellent remedy for typical pet problems, such as reducing the formation of hairballs and relieving digestive disorders. It is important to keep in mind that olive oil is caloric, and it is therefore advisable to use it in moderate amounts: only one teaspoon a day for dogs and up to three teaspoons a week for cats. There is no need to look for olive oil made specially for animals, as long as it is a quality extra virgin olive oil.