Cobalamin Vitamin B12 Deficiency in Dogs
Key takeaways
Vitamin B12 deficiency occurs when dogs are unable to absorb B12 appropriately, leading to reduced levels in the bloodstream.
- B12 is a vitamin which is essential to a dog’s red blood cell production, DNA formation, and nervous system operation
- Dogs obtain B12 from their diet, as they do not produce it naturally
- Deficiency of B12 can have serious consequences, including worsening the symptoms of underlying disease and anemia
- Any dog presenting with symptoms requires immediate veterinary assistance
- Diagnostics focus on identifying the underlying cause, and include a physical examination, diagnostic imaging, urinalysis, and bloodwork
- Treatment focuses on any underlying conditions, and may be supported by B12 supplementation
- Prognosis is variable, depending on the underlying cause
- Dogs may require lifelong management if the deficiency is genetically inherited
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A closer look: Cobalamin Vitamin B12 Deficiency in Dogs
B12 is a vitamin which is essential to a dog’s red blood cell production, DNA formation, and nervous system operation. Dogs do not produce B12 naturally and must obtain B12 from their diet.
B12 deficiency is uncommon in dogs, and is most commonly associated with gastrointestinal disease. In rare cases, B12 deficiency is related to a hereditary condition that prevents proper B12 absorption.
B12 deficiency may lead to anemia and worsening of symptoms in dogs with underlying disease, making dogs feel more ill. Any pet presenting with symptoms requires prompt veterinary attention. Dogs that have pale gums, collapse, or show signs of weakness require immediate veterinary attention.
Risk factors
Dogs with an inherited B12 deficiency often show symptoms within their first year of life. The earliest symptom noticed is typically failure to thrive, with poor growth in growing puppies.
B12 deficiency occurs commonly alongside gastrointestinal conditions.
Possible causes
B12 deficiency occurs when a dog is unable to properly absorb B12 from their diet. Some breeds inherit a genetic abnormality which affects B12 absorption.
Others absorb B12 inefficiently as a result of a gastrointestinal condition.
In very rare cases, B12 deficiency may be related to low levels of B12 in the diet, such as exclusively vegan or vegetarian diets without appropriate vitamin supplementation.
Main symptoms
Testing and diagnosis
Since the symptoms of B12 deficiency do not specifically indicate this condition, a full workup is necessary to identify B12 deficiency, determine underlying cause, and plan appropriate treatment. Diagnostics include:
- A physical examination
- Diagnostic imaging to evaluate for underlying disease
- Bloodwork, including testing B12 levels
- Urinalysis
- Intestinal biopsy
Steps to Recovery
If B12 deficiency is genetic, supplements (oral or injected) may be sufficient to manage the condition.
If the deficiency is associated with GI malabsorption, then oral supplements are typically not effective, as the absorption of B12 in the digestive system is compromised. Treatment in these cases instead targets the underlying condition, to improve B12 absorption.
The genetic form of this condition is lifelong. With proper management, a good quality of life is attainable.
Prognosis for malabsorption due to GI diseases vary depending on the underlying condition. In most cases, repeated examination and diagnostic testing is required to monitor treatment progress.
Prevention
Selective breeding of unaffected animals prevents the genetic version of this condition from passing on to following generations. Otherwise, proper management of GI diseases may minimize B12 deficiency in affected patients.
Vitamin B12 deficiency is not contagious.
Is Cobalamin Vitamin B12 Deficiency in Dogs common?
B12 deficiency commonly presents alongside GI diseases.
The hereditary form of B12 deficiency is rare.
Typical Treatment
- B12 supplementation (Oral, Injected)
- Treatment of concurrent GI conditions
