However, it is important to be cautious and to follow the recommended dosage to ensure optimum benefit to ensure the safety and well-being of the cat. While olive oil is a beneficial supplement, it’s important to continue feeding them a balanced diet of high-quality cat food.

Introduce olive oil slowly, by adding a small amount to food. Start with a quarter teaspoon or less and see how your cat reacts.

Always use olive oil in moderation and consult with a veterinarian before adding it to a cat’s diet. The recommended dosage of olive oil for cats is about 1 teaspoon two or three times a week. It is not recommended to give a cat olive oil if they have pancreatitis or other serious health conditions.

Olive oil for joint health in cats

One of the clear Benefits of olive oil for cats is that as cats age, they may begin to suffer from degenerative joint diseases, leading to stiffness and discomfort. The monounsaturated fats in olive oil help to reduce inflammation, relieving joint swelling and discomfort. It can also help to improve mobility in older cats suffering from degenerative joint diseases and improve overall joint health.

Using olive oil for cats’ skin and coat health

One of the primary benefits of olive oil for cats is it can help to prevent dandruff and treat dry, itchy skin. Olive oil contains fatty acids that nourish and moisturize a cat’s skin, leading to a healthier and more lustrous coat.

In addition, olive oil can aid in the healing of minor cuts and wounds. Its anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce swelling and discomfort, while its antioxidants can aid in the healing process.  Incorporating a small quantity of olive oil into your cat’s diet a couple of times a week is sufficient to hydrate their skin and alleviate irritation.

Olive oil for cat’s digestion

Olive oil can also be beneficial for a cat’s digestion by helping to lubricate the digestive system, relieving constipation and other digestive issues.  For occasional constipation, use between half and one teaspoon of olive oil mixed into the cat’s food.  Usually, cats will have a movement on the first day of treatment.

Additionally, olive oil can aid in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, such as vitamins A and E. These vitamins are essential for a cat’s overall health and can help to improve their immune system, vision, and more.

Homemade remedies with olive oil for cats

Hairball treatment

Adding a small amount of olive oil to a cat’s diet helps to prevent the formation of hairballs. The lubricating properties of olive oil help to move ingested hair through the digestive system, softening the faeces and reducing the likelihood of hairballs forming.

To detangle fur

To detangle matted fur on your cat, try using olive oil as a natural remedy. Simply apply a teaspoon of oil to the matting and leave it for up to three days. This helps to loosen the tangles and avoids cutting the mat out of their fur, and risking nicking the delicate skin.

To clean ears and treat ear mites

With the cat in your lap, use a dropper to apply a drop or two of slightly warm (but not hot) oil into the round area closest to the ear canal. Gently massage the base of the ear for one minute. After 5 minutes wipe out any excess dirt. 

Recommended dosage of olive oil for cats

The recommended dosage of olive oil for cats is about 1 teaspoon per 5-10 pounds of body weight.

It is not recommended to give a cat olive oil if they have pancreatitis or other serious health conditions

Precautions when giving olive oil to cats

Olive oil should only be used sparingly and temporarily. Cats require animal-based fats, rather than plant oils. In addition, the terpenic acids and phenolic compounds found in olive oil can be difficult for a cat’s liver to detoxify. If you do choose to use it on a more frequent basis, make sure to properly measure the dose and only give it to your cat twice or three times a week.

Always choose high quality organic extra virgin olive oil for its lower acidity compared to regular olive oil.  Olive oil can go rancid if it is not stored properly. Keep it in a cool, dark place and use it within a few months of opening.

Possible side effects of olive oil

Ingesting too much olive oil can lead to diarrhea in cats. Additionally, consuming large amounts of the oil on a regular basis may cause a vitamin A deficiency. It is clear that there are also warning signs and then there are no benefits of olive oil for cats but isn’t that always when the word “too” is involved? 

Source Benefits of olive oil for cats:

“The Benefits of Olive Oil for Cats” by Dr. Karen Becker, DVM (https://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2011/06/06/the-benefits-of-olive-oil-for-cats.aspx)