How much vitamin A should be given to a cat? - briefly
Cats require approximately 5000 IU of vitamin A per kilogram of diet on a dry matter basis to meet their nutritional needs. Excessive vitamin A can lead to toxicity, so it’s essential to provide it in balanced amounts.
How much vitamin A should be given to a cat? - in detail
Vitamin A is essential for maintaining a cat’s overall health, particularly for vision, immune function, and skin integrity. Cats, being obligate carnivores, require preformed vitamin A (retinol) from animal sources, as they cannot efficiently convert beta-carotene from plant sources into the active form of the vitamin. The recommended daily allowance of vitamin A for an average adult cat is approximately 5000 IU (International Units) per kilogram of dry food. This amount ensures optimal health without risking toxicity. Over-supplementation can lead to hypervitaminosis A, a condition characterized by symptoms such as lethargy, weight loss, joint stiffness, and even bone deformities. Conversely, a deficiency can result in night blindness, poor coat quality, and weakened immunity. Commercial cat foods typically contain adequate levels of vitamin A, so additional supplementation is usually unnecessary unless prescribed by a veterinarian. If a cat’s diet consists primarily of homemade or raw food, it is crucial to consult a veterinarian to ensure the correct dosage and avoid imbalances. Monitoring a cat’s health and dietary intake is vital to prevent both deficiency and excess, as vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin that accumulates in the body over time.