The Role Of Vitamins In Healthy Pets

Pets, just like us need vitamins and minerals to stay healthy. In today's environment it may be even more important they receive the nutrients they need. Vitamins perform important roles for our pets just as they do for humans. Vitamins are divided into two groups, water-soluble and fat-soluble, just as they are for humans. Fat-soluble vitamins are stored in the liver and are good for several functions for our pets.

Vitamin A is the vitamin to keep skin and coat healthy. Vitamin D is what they need for good bones and teeth, E is an antioxidant vitamin, and K is for good blood clotting in case of a cut or injury. Liver is a good source of these fat-soluble vitamins. Fat-soluble means they are dissolved in fat.

Water-soluble vitamins are B complex vitamins and vitamin C. These vitamins are easily lost during cooking and processing but they are still valuable to their health. The B complex vitamins are important for healthy muscles, skin, and quality blood. Vitamin C is the stress vitamin and it is just as necessary for pets as they are for us. Liver and kidney are good sources for these water-soluble vitamins.

Our pets are precious to us and we want to keep them healthy and with us as long as possible. How do we know if they have a vitamin shortage, they can't tell us! Here are some signs to watch for to be sure your dog or cat does not have a vitamin deficiency.

If you pet has a poor skin and coat they may be lacking in vitamin A or B. If their skin develops sores, their hair grows thin, or they develop bald spots, the lack of these two essential vitamins may be to blame. Is your pet sleepy, tired, and anemic? They may need some extra vitamin B.

If they are having problems with their heart or have been diagnosed with cancer, they may need vitamin E. Vitamin D is lacking if they have weak bones and bad teeth.

Generic dog and cat food are normally not as nutritious as name brand pet foods. If you are concerned about your pet, check the labels on the food you are giving them. If you suspect your pet is lacking in one of the important vitamins, read labels. Some foods are fortified with extra vitamins and minerals. Many foods are designed and made to meet the needs of specific ages for your pet, and for special needs.

You will probably need to experiment with different foods to see which ones work with your pet. Some food will give my dog gas and even though it is good for him and is a weight management food, I am planning on changing brands the next time I buy him food. Weight management is as important to our pets as it is to us. As a dog gets older, they tend to be less active and to gain weight. Weight gain can cause heart problems and slow your pet down even more. Manufactured foods for weight control are available and normally have extra nutrients that an older dog needs to remain healthy and happy.

Next article: Understanding The Effects Of Vitamin Deficiencies

Email this page to a friend

Featured Vitamins Product:

More Articles About Vitamins ...

Vitamin Supplements - Which Ones Will Help You Or Harm You
For most of us, taking a daily vitamin is as automatic as eating. Taking a daily vitamin, which supplements the vitamin, mineral, and enzymes in your diet, can help prevent disease and improve your health....

Senior Citizens And Vitamin Intake
While vitamins are necessary for the health of everybody, senior citizens need to take special care in maintaining a diet that can help to keep them healthy. There are special needs that senior citizens...

Fat-Soluble Vitamins - An Overview
Vitamins are grouped into two different categories: those that are fat-soluble and those that are water-soluble. In this article, we'll discuss the different fat-soluble vitamins and exactly what they...

For more information about vitamins, see our Health resources section, view our Health Blog containing health articles, news, updates and health tips, or go to more articles about Vitamins For Pets.

***

***

Search for more information on "vitamins for pets" below:

You are here: Home » vitamins » The Role Of Vitamins In Healthy Pets