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Healthier skin and a younger-looking body. These are just two of the benefits of biotin, formerly known as Vitamin H. One of the most important nutrients in the body, biotin maintains healthy connective tissue which holds the body together. It is essential for the metabolism of fats and carbohydrates, as well as for cell formation, and assists with the metabolism of proteins.
Skin conditions arising from a biotin deficiency include dry, flaky skin, a dull or thin coat, excessive shedding, and intense scratching or biting at the skin leading to bald areas. Birds and rabbits will show similar symptoms in their fur and feathers. Talons, nails and beaks may also be in poor condition. Less readily seen symptoms occur in weakened tissue, which may contribute to hip dysplasia in dogs and other joint disorders.
In recent years, biotin has enjoyed popularity as an ingredient in shampoos, conditioners and cosmetics. This B vitamin, however, has to be ingested in order to gain its full benefit.
A primary source of biotin is the healthy bacteria in the intestinal tract, and it also occurs naturally in many foods, including liver, meat, egg yolks and most vegetables. Since the bioavailable content in these foods may not prove sufficient to provide proper balance, a biotin supplement can be helpful. It is also an effective alternative to expensive prednisone and antihistamine treatments.
Supplementation will reverse the unsightly and uncomfortable effects caused by a deficiency. The animals will look, feel and act years younger in a relatively short time. Less scratching will result in healthier, less-irritated skin and less shedding. Bald areas will show new hair growth as the rest of the coat thickens and regains its original luster.
Being aware of the signs and symptoms of a biotin deficiency will help you take appropriate measures. A healthy animal is a happy animal who will live a longer life.
Effects of Biotin in Dogs
Vitamin H is not only effective in the treatment of allergic reactions and skin conditions. It also seems to play an important role in the following processes:
#Digestion
#Growth
#Muscle formation
Hence, you should rely on this vitamin if your dog suffers from a skin problem or simply if you want to improve any of the aforementioned processes.
Biotin Deficiency in Dogs
A deficiency of vitamin B7 may be the precise cause of the skin disorders. This explains why the symptoms tend to alleviate when administering biotin. Some of the problems associated with biotin deficiency include:
#Anemia
#Dry haircoat
#Lathery
#Skin lesions
To make sure that these are determined by a lack of biotin and not something else, it is best to take the dog to a veterinarian. After consulting the dog, the veterinarian will determine if supplementation with vitamin H is necessary or not. Biotin deficiency may be noticed after giving the dog raw egg whites. The absorption of biotin is inhibited when raw eggs are consumed, because these contain the Avidin enzyme.
Availability and Administration of Vitamin B7
This vitamin is available in powder form, either alone or in combination with other substances. Brewer’s yeast, for example, includes several other compounds besides biotin. More than that, there are also several natural sources of vitamin B7, the most important being:
#Liver
#Seed oils
#Yeast
#Yeast
If the diet of your dog includes any of these sources, chances are there will not by any deficiency problems. Even though there are no side effects or toxic reactions associated to biotin administration, dog owners are recommended to consult a veterinarian in order to find out the best dosage for their dog. As an alternative, you could follow the administration instruction listed on the supplement container. Supplements based on this vitamin may have different concentrations of biotin, and that is why it is safer to ask a veterinarian.
Adverse Reactions to Vitamin H
Biotin is a water-soluble vitamin, so it will not pose a threat to the health of your dog, even if an overdose is administered. The excess will not affect in any way the liver or the kidneys, and will be eliminated once with the urine. In other words, both the risks of toxicity and overdose are reduced to a minimum.
