Biotin (vitamin B7) is a water-soluble vitamin closely linked to skin, coat, and keratin metabolism. It acts 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 obvious deficiency is uncommon in balanced commercial diets.
| Other Names | Vitamin B7, vitamin H, D-biotin |
| Function | Carboxylase cofactor / skin and coat |
| Requirement | Usually covered in balanced diets |
| Sources | Liver, egg yolk, yeast |
| Water Soluble | Yes |
| Debate Level | Very low |
Biotin is a useful support ingredient in skin and coat formulas. It is especially relevant in products targeting coat quality, but it should still be treated as supportive rather than a universal answer for all hair-loss cases.
Functions
- Keratin synthesis: supports hair, nail, and skin structure
- Fatty acid synthesis: helps skin barrier lipids
- Gluconeogenesis: involved through carboxylase pathways
- Amino acid metabolism: participates in several metabolic steps
Raw Egg White Warning
Raw egg white contains avidin, a protein that binds biotin and may reduce absorption when fed repeatedly in large amounts. Cooking inactivates avidin and removes this concern.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will biotin stop hair loss?
It may help when poor coat quality is related to deficiency or inadequate nutritional support, but many hair-loss cases are caused by allergy, endocrine disease, parasites, or inflammation. Biotin is supportive, not a universal fix.
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.