Folic acid (vitamin B9) is an essential B vitamin that is critical for DNA synthesis, cell division, amino acid metabolism and erythrocyte (red blood cell) production. It is especially indispensable for fetal development and neural tube formation in pregnant animals. Folic acid deficiency can lead to megaloblastic anemia, growth failure and birth defects.
| Chemical Name | Pteroylglutamic acid |
| Resource Type | Vitamin (Water Soluble, B9) |
| Function | DNA Synthesis / Cell Division / Erythropoiesis |
| Dog Need | 0.216 mg/kg DM (AAFCO min.) |
| Cat Needs | 0.80 mg/kg DM (AAFCO min.) |
| Safe Upper Limit | Large (water soluble, excess is excreted) |
| Discussion Level | low |
folic acid, It is an essential and vital vitamin. It is indispensable for DNA synthesis and cell division. It must be present in sufficient levels in all quality foods. The need increases especially in pregnant and lactating animals.
Why Added?
- DNA synthesis: Cofactor for thymidylate and purine synthesis—critical for cell division
- Erythropoiesis: Necessary for red blood cell production
- Fetal development: Critical for neural tube formation and organogenesis
- Amino acid metabolism: Cofactor in the methionine-homocysteine cycle
Deficiency Risks and GI Diseases
Folic acid deficiency can cause megaloblastic anemia (large, immature erythrocytes), leukopenia, and thrombocytopenia. Chronic gastrointestinal diseases (IBD, EPI) can impair folic acid absorption. In addition, some medications (methotrexate, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole) act as folate antagonists and can worsen deficiency. In pregnant animals, deficiency may contribute to cleft palate and other congenital defects.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between folic acid and folate?
Folate is the natural form of vitamin B9 and is found in foods (liver, green leafy vegetables). Folic acid is its synthetic form and is added to foods as a supplement. Both are converted in the body to the active form, tetrahydrofolate. In terms of bioavailability, folic acid is higher than natural folate.
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Bibliography
- NRC (National Research Council). (2006). Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press.
- AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials). (2024). Official Publication.