The social network for pets and pet owners

Cod liver oil query

Hi Cat, I took Tiny to the vets today and was told not to give her cod liver oil because it contains vitamin A and could make her ill. What does vitamin A do to a dog? I thought it was safe to give cod liver oil to dogs but am now worried that I may have inadvertantly harmed her.

Comments

Post a comment in this discussion

19 Jun 2008 19:14

Greywolf

Thanks Cat. I will definatly ask on tuesday and will let you know what they say.

18 Jun 2008 22:34

Cat the Vet

Hi Greywolf,

I am not aware of any risks associated with giving cod liver oil to dogs, and I recommend it regularly to many of my clients. There are many medical studies proving its efficacy in human medicine and this knowledge has been successfully transfered to dogs.

The toxic dose of Vitamin A in a dog is well over 100, 000IU/lb food, per day for many months. 100g of cod liver oil contains about 100, 00IU of Vitamin A. This means you would have to feed your dog 100g of cod liver oil a day, for many months before you will see any adverse effects. Reports of Vitamin A toxicity are very rare in dogs.

I do not think there are any problems in giving your dog cod liver oil and I also believe it is a very beneficial supplement. I advise a dose of one capsule or one teaspoon a day on the food. I would go back to your vet and ask them to clarify their comments.

I hope this is helpful

Cat

Want to Join?

Enter your e-mail address below and press ´Register´. We´ll send you a password and you can Log-in.
email address:

...............

Need Help?

Buy Now!