Horrible Consequences of Vitamin Deficiency in Cats

The Common Symptoms of Cats Lacking Vitamins

1. Excessive Tear Stains and Vision Decline

If your cat is experiencing an increase in eye and nose secretions, along with a decline in vision and even night blindness, it's a strong indication that they might be deficient in Vitamin A. To address this, pet owners can enrich their cat's diet with foods rich in Vitamin A, such as egg yolks, dairy products, or carrots. For instance, feeding your cat two to three egg yolks per week, along with moderate amounts of dairy and carrots, can help. However, it's important not to overdo it and feed these items daily.

2. Recurring Ringworm and Dry Fur

Ringworm, while not a severe illness, can be quite pesky to treat. Moreover, some cats may not have ringworm but often suffer from dry, brittle fur, especially longhaired cats. This condition could be a sign of a Vitamin B deficiency. To supplement Vitamin B, pet owners can include duck meat and liver in their cat's diet, or opt for a Vitamin B complex supplement specifically formulated for felines.

3. Osteoporosis or Pica

Pica in cats is primarily caused by a lack of Vitamin D. If your cat exhibits abnormal behaviors like eating plastic bags, licking walls, or consuming paper boxes, it may be suffering from pica. A deficiency in Vitamin D can also lead to osteoporosis and, in severe cases, rickets. It's crucial for pet owners to take this seriously. To help your cat regain calcium, consider adding fish oil, fish, and egg yolks to their diet, as these foods contain calcium. Additionally, ensuring your cat gets regular sun exposure can aid in the conversion of calcium within their body.

Dr. Oxygen Pet Tips: While it's not difficult to keep a cat alive, it's quite the challenge to keep them healthy. Therefore, pet owners should put in the effort to care for their cats, ensuring they lead a healthy and happy life!