Vitamins

Vitamins are organic molecules required by living organisms in minute amounts for proper health. They are classified as water soluble, dissolving easily in water, or fat soluble, meaning absorbed through the intestinal tract with the help of lipids. Both humans and animals must primarily get vitamins from outside the body, most often from the diet.

Vitamins and minerals perform in many ways, impacting digestion, metabolism, oxidation, reproduction and growth. The B vitamins (thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, pyridoxine, pantothenic acid, pangamic acid, biotin, choline and inositol) and Vitamin C are all water-soluble vitamins which animals must consume daily, as they are rapidly excreted in their urine and feces.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A is a fat-soluble antioxidant that protects the cells against damaging free radicals and plays other vital roles in the body. It is needed for maintaining normal skin and mucuous membranes. It can prevent serious eye problems, enhance immunity, treat several skin disorders and may protect against cancer formation by scavenging free radicals that occur as a result of cell oxidation. It is necessary for protein utilization and vital to bone formation. It aids in fat storage, helps prevent infections of the bladder and lungs and has been suggested to slow the aging process. In brief, Vitamin A is an essential nutrient that pets must get in their diets.

Cats cannot convert beta-carotene, the precursor to Vitamin A, into vitamin A. For this reason, cats require pre-formed vitamin A, which is found in animal tissue. Dogs can convert beta carotene in plant tissue into vitamin A.

Vitamin A deficiency results in abscesses and secondary bacterial infections, infections of the respiratory tract and various skin disorders such as dryness and cracking of the skin. Carotenoids are compounds related to vitamin A, while beta carotene is a precursor to vitamin A. Vitamin A is often recommended for treating ailments which may benefit from high doses of antioxidants. These include epilepsy, atopic dermatitis, allergies including food allergies, feline leukemia and feline immunodeficiency virus infections. Pets with inflammatory bowel disease are also often treated with vitamin A.

Unlike natural vitamin A, synthetic vitamin A can result in toxicity and cause liver damage and birth defects if large doses are ingested. Pets should not receive additional supplementation of vitamin A without the advice of a veterinarian, especially in the case of diabetic pets.

Alfalfa, kelp, green foods such as spirulina and herbs are all good, natural sources of vitamin A.

Vitamin B Complex

Necessary for fat and protein assimilation, vitamin B complex is made up of 17 individual parts, plus folic acid, biotin, choline, inositol and para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA). A water-soluble vitamin, it is flushed through the body quickly and cannot be stored, so it should be fed to your dog with each meal. Vitamin B helps to promote growth, handle stress and aid in healing, particularly after surgery. Necessary for vaccines to work correctly in the body, lack of vitamin B can cause vaccine reactions. Hair loss, early graying of coat, weakness in the back legs, loss of appetite, stool eating, attracting fleas, ticks, flies, anxiety, nervousness, edema and heart disease can all result from deficiencies in the B complex vitamins. Vitamin B is found in abundance in liver, yeast, wheat bran, wheat germ and kelp.

Supplementation with vitamin B is often recommended as therapy for pets with cognitive disorder, which is similar to Alzheimer's in people, and epilepsy. Since B vitamins are important for proper functioning of neurological tissues and are safe, they are generally recommended as a holistic treatment for pets with these disorders. A complex of B vitamins helps maintain the health of the nervous system, skin, eyes, hair, liver, muscle and brain. They function as coenzymes in energy production and may help reduce anxiety and depression.

A deficiency of B vitamins is rare in pets because most foods contain B vitamins. An exception is thiamin deficiency in cats (see Thiamin). Supplementation with the B vitamin choline is indicated in older pets, especially those exhibiting signs of cognitive disorder.

Many dogs with behavior problems may be B deficient, as may be animals with cataracts, adrenal problems, skin allergies, skin disorders, blood vessel disease, learning difficulties, anemia, runny eyes, slow weight gain or growth, erratic appetite and stool eating.

The food sources of B vitamins are endless, and include fish, liver, pork, poultry, beef, whole grains, brewer's yeast, nutritional yeast, kelp, alfalfa, many green vegetables, potatoes, carrots... the sources are many!

B1 (thiamin)

Thiamin is a water-soluble vitamin that the body uses to process fats, carbohydrates and proteins. Every cell in your pet's body needs thiamin to make adenosine triphysphate (ATP), which is the body's main energy-carrying molecule.

B1 enhances circulation, assists in blood formation, enhances brain activity and cognitive function and acts an antioxidant. It also maintains muscle tone in the intestines, stomach and heart.

Although rare, pure thiamin deficiency can occur in cats. It occurs as a result of feeding highly processed (especially commercially canned) food, as processing destroys thiamine. Feeding large amounts of raw fish can also destroy thiamin. Signs of thiamin deficiency include lack of appetite, ataxia (a wobbly, drunken gait), convulsions and a downward flexion of the neck.

Vitamin B2 (riboflavin)

Riboflavin is an essential nutrient required for life. It is also used for the production of red blood cells and antibodies that help fight disease. It helps prevent cataracts and aids in energy production by cells of the body. It works with vitamin A to maintain mucous membranes and it helps the absorption of iron and vitamin B6 in the intestines. It is needed for metabolism of the amino acid tryptophan, with is then converted into niacin (vitamin B3). Like other B vitamins, riboflavin assists in the metabolism of nutrients including fats, carbohydrates and proteins, and helps activate vitamins B6 and folic acid.

Brewer's yeast is one of the richest sources of riboflavin. Alfalfa, kelp, organ meats such as the liver, kidney and heart, legumes, leafy greens and certain herbs are also good sources.

B3 (niacin)

Vitamin B3 is required for the proper function of more than 50 enzymes. It is needed for healthy skin and proper circulation of the blood throughout the body. Niacin lowers cholesterol and helps with the synthesis of hormones, including estrogen and testosterone. It is often used to enhance memory.

Similar to riboflavin, it is used in energy production by the cells. Tryptophan metabolism is intrinsically linked to niacin.

Good sources of niacin are brewers yeast, poultry, protein foods and green foods such as alfalfa and herbs.

B5 (pantothenic acid)

Pantothenic acid is known as the anti-stress vitamin since it is involved in the production of adrenal hormones and antibodies produced by the body's white blood cells.

Brewer's yeast is one of the many good sources of B5.

B6 (pyridoxine)

Pyridoxine plays a major role in manufacturing proteins, hormones and neurotransmitters (chemicals that carry signals between nerve cells). Cats have a higher requirement for vitamin B6 due to high transaminase activity from their high protein requirement. Transaminase is an enzyme found in the liver that is used to synthesize and break down amino acids and convert them to energy.

Pyridoxine promotes red blood cell production and is needed for normal brain function, physical and mental health and for most body functions. It is needed for the absorption of vitamin B12 and is also used for antibody formation and immune system functioning. Pyridoxine maintains sodium and potassium balance and is necessary in water regulation by the body. It is needed for fat and protein absorption. It is a coenzyme to over 50 different reactions in the body's transamination (where nitrogen is added to fatty acid to form an amino acid) and decarboxylation (where a carbon is removed to shorten an amino acid chain).

Good sources of B6 are brewer's yeast, alfalfa and many others.

B7 (biotin)

Vitamin B7, or biotin, is a water-soluble vitamin that that acts as a coenzyme in the metabolism of protein, fats and carbohydrates and plays an important role in metabolizing energy. Biotin also acts by assisting four essential enzymes that metabolize fats, carbohydrates and proteins. Biotin aids in cell growth, fatty acid production and in the utilization of other B vitamins and proteins. Biotin is needed for healthy skin and coat and helps relieve muscle pain. It is also may help pets on chronic antibiotic therapy.

Brewer's yeast is an excellent source of biotin.

B8 (inositol)

Inositol is present in all animal tissues, with the highest levels in the heart and brain. It is part of the membranes (outer linings) of all cells, and plays a role in helping the liver process fats. It also contributes to the function of muscles and nerves. Sometimes referred to as b8, inositol promotes the growth of hair, reduces cholesterol levels, contributions to the function of nerves and muscles and has a calming effect. It is needed for lecithin formation and in the metabolism of fat and cholesterol. It is also useful for removing fats from the liver.

Like choline, inositol plays an important part in the health of cell membranes, particularly the specialized cells in the brain, bone marrow, eyes and intestines. Inositol affects nerve transmission and helps in transporting fats within the body. Inositol works in conjunction with folacin, Vitamins B-6 and B-12, choline, betaine, and methionine to prevent the accumulation of fats in the liver. It exists as the fiber component phytic acid, which has been investigated for its anti-cancer properties. Inositol is said to promote healthy skin and fur and reducing blood cholesterol levels.

Brewer's yeast, lecithin, a variety of vegetables and grains and other sources supply inositol.

B12 (cobalamin)

The "cobal" in cobalamin refers to the metal cobalt contained in vitamin B12. B12 is required for the normal activity of nerve cells. It works with folic acid and vitamin B6 to lower blood levels of homocysteine, a chemical in the blood that is thought to contribute to heart disease. Cobalt is needed to regulate proper blood cell production. Like other B vitamins, cobalamin is needed for the metabolism of proteins, fats and carbohydrates.

Good sources of vitamin B12 are brewer's yeast, alfalfa, herbs, eggs, chicken liver, beef liver, kidney, beef, lamb, dairy products, seafood, fish and soy products and certain vegetables.

B15 (dimethylglycine, or DMG)

The metabolic role of vitamin B15 is to provide carbon to cells. It appears to enhance oxygen usage, prevent the accumulation of lactic acid, improve muscle metabolism, function as an anti-stress nutrient to improve the cardiovascular system and reduce recovery time after vigorous physical activity. It has been thought to have an anti-inflammatory effect, and has been recommended for use in pets with osteoarthritis. Research indicates that dmg reduces the incidence of arthritis and allows for the reversal of the inflammatory condition in some animals with arthritis. Many doctors prescribe it for horses, dogs and cats to improve performance and enhance recovery from various health problems. It is also considered an anti-stress nutrient. It has also been recommended by holistic vets as a supplement for pets with seizures and allergies, as well as immune disorders such as cancer, feline leukemia virus infection, feline immunodeficiency virus infection and diabetes. It is included in formulas for pets with heart disease, and is proposed to work by improving oxygen intake and utilization.

Vitamin C (Ester C)

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant which has been known to protect against the harmful effects of pollution as well as protect against infection. We use Ester-C because it is an innovative, patented, readily absorbed, non-acidic complex of Calcium Ascorbate. It contains the essential minerals calcium, magnesium, manganese and zinc, bound in a PH-neutral complex along with vitamin C metabolites that enhance the absorption of vitamin C. In this form, it does not cause gastrointestinal disturbances such as diarrhea because of its rapid absorption from the gastrointestinal tract. Ester-C powder is specially used for animals suffering from chronic illnesses such as cancer, feline AIDS and feline leukemia, as it generally enhances immunity. Animals' bodies do not produce vitamin C, so it must be obtained through the diet and/or in the form of supplements.

Dogs and cats do not have a specific dietary requirements for vitamin C, however, many doctors will supplement with vitamin C during times of stress and illness. Vitamin C functions as an antioxidant and is used for normal repair of tissues. It is required for adrenal gland function, is used for collagen (a connective tissue which is an integral part of cartilage) synthesis and is needed for maintaining healthy gums. It is needed for the metabolism of some amino acids and several B vitamins including folic acid. It is also needed for norepinephrine (a nerve transmitter) synthesis as well as for cholesterol synthesis. Because it is so vital for the synthesis of collagen, it is often prescribed for pets with arthritis.

Vitamin C appears to work synergistically as an antioxidant with vitamin E. It appears to attack free radicals (chemicals produced as a by-product of cell-metabolism) in cellular fluids whereas vitamin E attacks the free radicals in the cell membranes. Vitamin C also protects against unnecessary blood clotting and bruising and aids in the healing of wounds. A deficiency of vitamin C causes slow scar formation.

Findings suggest that although dogs, unlike humans, can manufacture their own vitamin C, they may not produce enough to counteract the effects of aging, injury, stress, inherited dysfunctions, joint malpositioning, environmental irritants and poor quality or high fat pet foods. Early studies in dogs and horses suggest that daily vitamin C supplementation and might also be beneficial in reducing chronic inflammation.

Citrus fruits, green foods such as alfalfa, herbs, berries and various vegetables are good sources of vitamin C.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin needed for the proper absorption of calcium and phosphorus, proper development and growth of muscles, bones and teeth, thyroid gland support, protection against blood clotting, and for heart strength.

Synthetic Vitamin D in vitamin D supplements should always be taken at recommended dosages. Unless consumed through food, Vitamin D taken in excess can build up in the system and cause severe toxicity.

Fish liver oil, fish such as mackerel, salmon and herring, dairy products, liver, oatmeal and sweet potatoes are good, natural sources of Vitamin D.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin, which means it is stored by the body. A powerful antioxidant, Vitamin E provides a way for oxygen to reach the tissues of the body, dilating blood vessels and improving circulation. It helps to protect the lungs and other tissues from air pollution. Vitamin E helps to retard the aging process and is critical for the correct functioning of the reproductive organs. It is used in the treatment of heart disease and arthritis in older dogs.

Vitamin K

Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin needed for proper clotting of the blood. It is importance for the maintenance of bone protein integrity, and may help in the prevention of osteoporosis. Vitamin K also promotes healthy liver function and has been said to promote longevity as well.

A Vitamin K deficiency may cause internal and/or internal bleeding due to the inability of the body to properly clot blood. Probiotic supplementation is helpful in restoring or maintaining the production of Vitamin K.

Vitamin K is found in dark green leafy vegetables as well as broccoli, lettuce, cabbage, oats and oatmeal, green peas, whole wheat, green beans, brussels sprouts, safflower oil, soybeans, watercress and alfalfa.

Folic Acid

Folic acid is made up of PABA and glutamic acid. It is fragile, and destroyed by heat and light. It should not be left at room temperature. It is needed to form red blood cells, and is also necessary for protein metabolism. Critical for the growth and division of all body cells, folic acid is needed most during pregnancy and puppy growth. Folic acid helps to build antibodies to diseases, especially after vaccination, and it improves lactation. Folic acid is essential to dogs suffering from Addison's disease or epilepsy.

Deficiencies can show up as lack of pigmentation, spontaneous abortion, difficult labor, dead or deformed puppies and a watery discharge from the eyes. Folic acid is abundant in green leafy vegetables, raw liver, brewer's yeast and some raw fruits.