Can Cats Eat Vegetable Oil?

Yes, cats can eat vegetable oil in small quantities.

Also known as vegetable fats, vegetable oils are extracted from a variety of plant-based sources: seeds, nuts, cereal grains, and fruits. Vegetable oil is sold as a mixture of different oils, so it may not always clearly state which plants have been used. 

Since cats need fat in their diet, some commercially sold dry kibble and wet cat food brands already contain vegetable oil. This fat is not toxic for cats in itself, but it may be better to choose a specific type of vegetable oil for your cat to consume. That way, you can be sure of the ratio of saturated fat, monounsaturated fat, and polyunsaturated fat it contains. Two common examples are coconut oil and olive oil, which can be fed to your cat with your veterinarian’s approval. 

Cat-friendly vegetable oils can provide varying health benefits. Coconut oil is said to enhance the skin and fur, boost immunity, reduce inflammation, improve digestion, and prevent hairballs. Meanwhile, olive oil also provides the same benefits as well as facilitating weight loss and reducing the risk of cardiovascular-related diseases. 

How to feed vegetable oil to your cat: Talk to your veterinarian to find out if your cat needs vegetable oil in her diet. She may be getting enough from her regular cat food. 

If you need to add vegetable oil in your cat’s diet, make sure to follow your veterinarian’s recommended servings. This will be based on your cat’s age, weight, size, activity levels, and health conditions. Don’t feed her too much vegetable oil as it may cause stomach upset, diarrhea, or loose stools.

Here are three ideas for vegetable oil treats your cat will love:

1. Add ¼ teaspoon of vegetable oil to this protein-rich cooked meal for your adult cat.
2. Make a tasty snack using blueberries and coconut oil. 
3. Bake Sardine Catnip Crunchies for Kitty using olive oil.   

In summary: Vegetable oil can aid in your cat’s overall well-being. Discuss your options with your vet before giving it to your cat as this may cause gastrointestinal complications and weight gain. Refrain from giving vegetable oil to obese cats and those suffering from gastroenteritis, pancreatitis, diarrhea, and vomiting. 

Browse through our “can cats eat” category to learn which human foods you can safely feed to your pet cat.

References: 

Wikipedia: Vegetable oil

Canola Oil vs. Vegetable Oil: What’s Healthiest?

Can Cats Drink Vegetable Oil? Is It Healthy for Them?