The Fat That Fuels: How MCTs Can Support Older Dogs and Cats

The science of medium-chain triglycerides and how they can help your senior pet stay brighter and more balanced

As our pets age, their brains and bodies often need a little extra support. You may notice slower reflexes, wandering at night, fussier eating habits, or increased anxiety around changes. These signs are part of the natural ageing process, but nutrition plays a powerful role in how well they adapt.

One group of nutrients receiving increasing attention is medium-chain triglycerides, or MCTs. Found naturally in coconut oil and palm kernel oil, MCTs provide a fast and efficient source of energy, particularly for the brain.

At Pawsome Naturals, we believe in food-first, science-backed support for everyday health. Here's how MCTs can help your dog, or even your cat, age more gracefully with vitality, clarity, and calm.

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What Are MCTs? 

MCTs are a type of fat made up of medium-length fatty acids, most commonly caprylic acid (C8), capric acid (C10) and lauric acid (C12). Unlike long-chain fats found in most meats and oils, MCTs are rapidly digested and absorbed directly into the liver. There, they are converted into ketones, an alternative to glucose that serves as fuel for the brain.

This is especially helpful for ageing pets, whose brain cells may not use glucose as efficiently as they once did.

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How MCTs Support Ageing Pets

Research in older dogs suggests that MCT supplementation may help support cognitive function, memory, calm behaviour, stable energy and appetite in frail animals. In a clinical trial, dogs given a blend of MCTs, antioxidants and B vitamins showed improvements in learning and attention span within 60 days (Pan et al., 2018).

Because MCTs do not rely on pancreatic enzymes to break down, they are often better tolerated by dogs and cats with digestive or pancreatic issues (Zentek, 2000).

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Where MCTs Are Found

You can find MCTs naturally in virgin coconut oil, which contains about 60 percent MCTs, mostly lauric acid. You can also find them in dedicated MCT oil supplements, which usually contain caprylic and capric acids. Some senior pet supplements include MCTs as part of their formulation, particularly those aimed at brain and nervous system support.

Dosing Guide

For a 10 kg dog, offer 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of virgin coconut oil daily. If using concentrated MCT oil, start with 1/8 teaspoon and increase slowly if tolerated.

For an average cat weighing 4 kg, offer 1/8 teaspoon of coconut oil every second day. If using MCT oil, a tiny drop or 1/16 teaspoon is enough, and only if well tolerated.

Always start with a small amount and increase gradually to avoid loose stools. Pets with sensitive digestion may need extra care when adding new fats.

Tips for Use

Mix MCTs into warm meals, wet food or broth-based dishes. They can also be combined with calming ingredients like chamomile or L-theanine for nervous system support. For cats, try offering a warmed spoon with a drop of oil or adding a small amount to a favourite treat.

MCTs are not recommended in pets with active pancreatitis unless under veterinary supervision.

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What About Coconut Oil?

Coconut oil is an excellent source of lauric acid, which has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. However, it does not produce as many brain-targeting ketones as caprylic and capric acids, which are found in concentrated MCT oil.

For coat and digestion support, coconut oil is excellent. For cognitive ageing, pure MCT oil may be more effective, but it must be used in small amounts unless specifically formulated for pets.

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Long-Term Use in Older Pets

MCTs appear to be safe for long-term use in healthy pets when introduced slowly and used in the recommended amounts. Studies have shown benefits in cognition, energy metabolism, and alertness when omega-3 fatty acids are included in the daily diet of older dogs (Pan et al., 2018).

However, like all fats, too much can cause problems. Overuse may contribute to digestive issues or weight gain in small or inactive pets. Regular monitoring and vet check-ups are essential to ensure your pet is thriving.

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Side Effects and Precautions

The most common side effect of MCTs is loose stools, particularly if introduced too quickly. Use caution if your pet has a history of pancreatitis, liver disease, fat malabsorption or very sensitive digestion. This is especially true for small breeds or elderly cats.

There is no evidence that specific breeds react differently to MCTs, but smaller dogs like Chihuahuas or older Terriers may become unwell more quickly if they experience diarrhoea or dehydration.

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Can MCTs Be Used with Other Supplements?

Yes. MCTs may enhance the absorption of fat-soluble nutrients, such as curcumin from turmeric and certain B vitamins. They also work well with calming ingredients like L-theanine and ashwagandha. Some pet owners find that MCTs help improve the taste and texture of powdered supplements for fussy eaters.

If your pet is already taking fish oil or a high-fat diet, be careful not to overdo the total fat intake. One teaspoon of coconut oil contains approximately 40 calories, which is a significant amount for small pets.

When combining MCTs with other supplements, such as SymbioPaws or SerenePaws, always start at the lower end of the dose range and monitor your pet’s response.

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Summary

MCTs are not a miracle fix, but they are a well-studied and valuable part of your senior pet’s care. When used thoughtfully, they can support cognition, mood, digestion and energy.

As we like to say at Pawsome Naturals, start low, go slow, and always keep an eye on the poo.

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Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional veterinary advice. Please consult your vet before adding new supplements or changing your pet’s diet, especially if they have health conditions or are taking medication. Pawsome Naturals products support general wellbeing but do not treat or diagnose disease.

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References

Pan, Y., et al. (2018). Cognitive enhancement in dogs through dietary supplementation. Journal of Nutritional Science, 7, e16.

Zentek, J. (2000). Fat digestion in dogs. Proceedings of the Waltham International Symposium on Pet Nutrition.

Butterwick, R. F., & Markwell, P. J. (1997). Changes in the nutritional requirements of aging cats and dogs. Compendium on Continuing Education for the Practising Veterinarian, 19(8), 960–972.