Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCT) Oil

What is medium chain triglycerides (MCT) oil?

Medium chain triglycerides (MCT) oil is a lipid (fat) used as a nutritional supplement to provide calories and fatty acids to dogs on fat-restricted diets. It has also been used as a support to help with cognitive dysfunction in dogs and cats, as well as a supportive treatment for epilepsy in dogs.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not review non-drug health products (e.g., herbals, nutraceuticals, shampoos, and other supplements) for safety or effectiveness before they are sold to the public. Manufacturers of non-drug health products must ensure their products are safe and labeled accurately. The FDA requires that these non-pharmaceuticals contain a disclaimer that says, “This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.” Health Canada licenses “veterinary health products” after reviewing safety, efficacy, and manufacturing information provided by the manufacturer. These products are not tested by Health Canada.

Your veterinarian is the best source of information about the safety of non-drug health products in pets. Just because a product is natural does not mean it is safe. All medicines and medicinal plants are potentially toxic if used inappropriately or given at high doses. Supplements can also have side effects, like pharmaceuticals. Few supplements and herbs have been subjected to rigorous scientific trials to determine their efficacy.

Although the information in this handout may be helpful, it also may be incomplete and may not represent the full range of effects the supplement could have on your pet.

How do I give my pet MCT oil?

MCT oil comes in a liquid oil form.
Liquids are given orally (by mouth), usually added to food.
Measure the amount of liquid medication to be given very carefully.
Give this medication to your pet for the entire time prescribed by your veterinarian, even if it appears that your pet is feeling better.

This medication should start to take effect quickly, within 1 to 2 hours, though effects may not be visible.

What if I miss giving my pet the medication?

If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember, and then wait the recommended time as prescribed by your veterinarian for the next dose. Do not give the pet two doses at once.

Are there any potential side effects from MCT oil?

MCT oil may cause the following side effects:

Bloating, flatulence (gas)
Diarrhea
Unpalatability, not wanting to eat

The following reactions are rare, but if they occur, contact your veterinarian immediately:

An allergic reaction such as irregular breathing, rash, fever, puffiness and swelling around the face
Signs of hepatic lipidosis (fatty liver) in cats (e.g., low appetite, jaundice/yellowing of skin or mucous membranes, vomiting)

Drug sensitivities can develop over time with repeated exposure. Your pet may have no reaction after the first few doses, but may develop a sensitivity later. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of treatment.

Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately. This medication is short-acting, meaning that effects will last less than 24 hours, though effects may last longer in pets with kidney or liver disease.

Are there any risk factors for this medication?

DO NOT USE MCT oil in pets who:

Are allergic to any component of the medication
Have severe liver disease
Are in diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)

USE WITH CAUTION in pets who

Have mild to moderate liver disease

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

No drug interactions have been reported for this medication. Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any new treatment.

Is any monitoring needed with this medication?

Your veterinarian may schedule follow-up visits for monitoring. In this case, follow your veterinarian’s directions.
At home, monitor for any abnormal changes. If any occur, discontinue the medication and contact your veterinarian.

How do I store MCT oil?

Store at room temperature in glass bottles, protected from light.
Keep medication out of reach of children and pets.

What should I do in case of emergency?

If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Adverse effects should be reported to the FDA or Health Canada.