Kitten Vitamin Intake Calculator
Here’s a general guide to the essential vitamins kittens need for growth and health, along with their functions and sources.
| Vitamin | Function | Natural Sources | Supplementation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vitamin A | Essential for vision, immune function, skin health, and growth. | Liver, fish oils, dairy, egg yolks. | Required in most kitten diets. Can be toxic in high doses. |
| Vitamin D | Supports bone growth and calcium-phosphorus balance. Prevents rickets in kittens. | Fish oils, liver, fortified kitten food. | Supplement if needed, but overdosing can be harmful. |
| Vitamin E | Acts as an antioxidant, supporting the immune system and skin health. | Vegetable oils, fish, meat. | Often included in commercial diets. |
| Vitamin K | Important for blood clotting and bone health. | Leafy greens, liver, fish. | Usually synthesized by intestinal bacteria; supplementation is rare unless deficiency is suspected. |
| B Vitamins | Supports metabolism, nerve function, and energy production. B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B6 (pyridoxine), and B12 (cobalamin) are key. | Whole grains, meats, fish, liver, eggs. | Often present in commercial kitten diets, but supplementation may be necessary in case of deficiency. |
| Vitamin C | Antioxidant that helps with immune function and skin health. Kittens generally synthesize it naturally. | Fruits, vegetables (though kittens usually produce enough internally). | Usually not required as a supplement. |
| Folic Acid | Essential for cell growth and DNA synthesis. | Liver, leafy greens, fortified kitten foods. | Deficiency is rare but can occur. |
| Choline | Vital for liver health, brain development, and metabolism. | Eggs, liver, meat, fish. | Typically present in most diets but may need supplementation in special cases. |
Notes:
- Quality food: Most commercial kitten diets are formulated to meet all these vitamin requirements.
- Supplement caution: Over-supplementation, especially with fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K, can lead to toxicity. Always consult a vet before adding supplements.
- Special needs: Orphaned kittens, or those on non-commercial diets, may need tailored supplementation.