Vitamin B Complex Benefits in Dogs and Cats
B-Complex Vitamins are critical cofactors necessary for pet energy production in dogs and cats. The family of B-Complex vitamins are essential to metabolize proteins, carbohydrates and fats. B-Complex Vitamins aid in the release of energy from pet foods and help to reduce cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood.
The complete family of Pet B-Complex Vitamins includes Vitamin B1, B2, B3, B5, B6 B12, Inositol, Biotin and Folic Acid.
Brewers yeast is a commonly used as an inexpensive source of B-Vitamins in many pet vitamin supplements for dogs and cats. Unfortunately Brewers Yeast is also a leading cause of pet allergies and itching in dogs and cats. Pet itching ultimately opens the door to secondary bacterial skin infections and dermatitis which tends to be bothersome to pets and costly for pet owners.
As an educated pet owner, carefully review, ingredient dosages and ingredient sources listed on pet vitamin supplement labels. If you notice that Brewers Yeast is listed on the ingredient panel of a pet vitamin supplement this indicates an inferior, low cost, low quality pet supplement that for most dogs and cats is a poor choice.
Many pet vitamin supplements marketed as natural Pet Flea Repellents are made of various combinations of Brewers Yeast and/or Garlic.
The theory behind this is that both Brewers Yeast and Garlic impart an odor to the perspiration that repels fleas. This is true in species like people that sweat. Unfortunately, dogs and cats only have a few ineffective sweat glands located in their foot pads, why is why pets must open their mouth and pant to reduce their body temperature when they become over heated. Pets Can't Sweat!
Dr. Carol's Tip: Garlic fed to dogs and cats on a daily basis continually, can lead to a loss of red blood cells which with time can result in Anemia.
