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My diabetic dog ate coconut oil. Will she be okay? Feed/insulin?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Pug | Female | unspayed | 6 years and 7 months old | 20 lbs

My dog is diabetic. My roommate left an opened jar of coconut oil on her floor and I think she ate some. I wasn't home so I have no idea how much, but it certainly wasn't more than a fourth of a cup at the VERY most. I only know she ate it because I smell it on her breath. She is acting normal and happy. Will she be okay? Do I feed her and give her insulin regularly? She is a 6 year old pug weighing almost 20 lbs.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on October 10th, 2017

Yes, I would recommend that you feed and administer insulin on Lily's normal schedule. Coconut oil is not toxic to dogs, but in large quantities, it can cause an upset stomach, decreased appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and possibly even pancreatitis. Pancreatitis in diabetic dogs can sometimes require hospitalization.

If Lily is not eating her food like normal, discontinue her insulin and call her veterinarian for instructions on how to proceed. If she starts vomiting, then discontinue her insulin and she should be checked out by a vet since she may need anti-nausea medications.

Any coconut oil that is not absorbed by the GI tract will come out the backside, so be prepared for greasy, loose stools. If she is having diarrhea, this may need a vet checkup.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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