Biotin (vitamin B7) is a water-soluble vitamin closely tied to skin, coat, and keratin metabolism. It functions as a cofactor for carboxylase enzymes involved in fatty acid synthesis, gluconeogenesis, and amino acid metabolism. True deficiency can contribute to dermatitis, poor coat quality, and brittle hair or nails, although overt deficiency is uncommon in balanced commercial diets.
| Other Names | Vitamin B7, vitamin H, D-biotin |
| Function | Carboxylase cofactor / skin and coat |
| Requirement | No dramatic deficiency expected in balanced diets |
| Sources | Liver, egg yolk, yeast |
| Water Soluble | Yes |
| Debate Level | Very low |
Biotin is a useful supportive ingredient in skin and coat formulas. It is especially attractive in products targeting coat quality, but supplementation should still be seen as supportive rather than a stand-alone solution for every hair-loss problem.
Functions
- Keratin synthesis: supports hair, nail, and skin structure
- Fatty acid synthesis: contributes to skin barrier lipids
- Gluconeogenesis: participates through pyruvate carboxylase systems
- Amino acid metabolism: involved in several metabolic pathways
Raw Egg White Warning
Raw egg white contains avidin, a protein that binds biotin and can reduce absorption when fed repeatedly in significant amounts. Cooking inactivates avidin and removes this concern.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will biotin stop hair loss?
It can help when poor coat quality is related to deficiency or inadequate nutritional support, but many cases of hair loss are caused by allergy, endocrine disease, parasites, or inflammation. Biotin is supportive, not a universal cure.
Related VetKriter Tools
References
- NRC. (2006). Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press.
- Watson, T. D. G. (1998). Diet and skin disease in dogs and cats. The Journal of Nutrition, 128(12), 2783S-2789S.