What vitamins do domestic cats need? - briefly
Domestic cats require essential vitamins such as A, D, E, K, and B-complex to support vision, bone health, immune function, and metabolism. These nutrients are typically obtained through a balanced diet formulated for feline needs.
What vitamins do domestic cats need? - in detail
Domestic cats require a balanced intake of essential vitamins to maintain optimal health and support their physiological functions. Vitamin A is crucial for vision, immune function, and skin health, and cats cannot convert beta-carotene from plants into this vitamin, making it necessary to obtain it from animal sources like liver. Vitamin D is vital for calcium and phosphorus absorption, ensuring strong bones and teeth; cats synthesize it through sunlight exposure but also need dietary sources such as fish oils. Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from oxidative damage and supporting skin and coat health, often found in vegetable oils and nuts. Vitamin K is necessary for blood clotting and bone metabolism, with leafy greens and liver being good sources. B-complex vitamins, including thiamine (B1), riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3), pantothenic acid (B5), pyridoxine (B6), biotin (B7), folic acid (B9), and cobalamin (B12), are essential for energy metabolism, nervous system function, and red blood cell production. Cats typically obtain these from meat, fish, and eggs. A deficiency or excess of these vitamins can lead to health issues, so a well-formulated commercial cat food or a carefully planned homemade diet is essential to meet their nutritional needs. Consulting a veterinarian ensures the diet provides the correct balance of vitamins tailored to the cat’s age, health, and lifestyle.