Vitamin E Deficiency in Dogs
Vitamin E is an essential vitamin for dogs, which means it must be part of their diet in order for your dog to maintain optimal health. Because Vitamin E is an antioxidant, it plays an important role in protecting cells from oxidative damage. Oxidative stress can harm cell membranes, cardiovascular health, the immune system, vision, neurological function and fertility. Signs that your dog is deficient in Vitamin E include muscle weakness and decreased fertility. Severe cases lead to a condition called brown bowel syndrome where the large intestine hemorrhages.
The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) recommends that adult dog food provide 50 IU of Vitamin E per kilogram of food. Vitamin E is produced by plants so the most common sources of Vitamin E are vegetable oils and seed oils, but it can also be found in liver and animal fat. Providing your dog with a healthy multi-vitamin is a great way to ensure that your dog is receiving all of the vitamins they need in appropriately balanced levels.
Studies
Vitamin E and selenium responsive myocardial degeneration in dogs.
