Vitamin A (retinol) is an essential fat-soluble vitamin in pet food required for vision, immunity, reproduction, and cellular differentiation. Cats cannot convert beta-carotene into vitamin A efficiently, so preformed vitamin A (retinol) is mandatory for them. Excess intake can cause toxicity, especially in liver-heavy diets where hypervitaminosis A may occur.
| Active Form | Retinol, Retinal, Retinoic Acid |
| Solubility | Fat-soluble (toxicity risk) |
| Dog Requirement | 5000 IU/kg DM (AAFCO min.) |
| Cat Requirement | 3332 IU/kg DM (AAFCO min.) |
| Safe Upper Limit | 250,000 IU/kg DM (dog) |
| Controversy Level | Low |
Vitamin A is an essential nutrient and all complete foods should provide it at adequate levels. Because cats cannot rely on beta-carotene conversion, preformed retinol is required. In balanced commercial diets, vitamin A is generally kept within a safe range.
Functions
- Vision: Retinal is part of rhodopsin for low-light vision
- Immunity: Supports epithelial barrier integrity and T-cell function
- Reproduction: Involved in spermatogenesis and placental development
- Skin: Supports epithelial differentiation and renewal
- Bone: Helps regulate osteoblast and osteoclast balance
Hypervitaminosis A (Cats)
Feeding raw liver to cats on a regular basis can cause hypervitaminosis A. Signs include bone proliferation in the cervical vertebrae, joint stiffness, pain, and reduced mobility. Liver is extremely rich in vitamin A and should only be given in very small amounts.
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References
- NRC (National Research Council). (2006). Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press.
- Polizopoulou, Z. S., Kazakos, G., Patsikas, M. N., & Roubies, N. (2005). Hypervitaminosis A in the cat: A case report and review of the literature. Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, 7(6), 363-368.