Vitamin C in Health and Disease: A Companion Animal Focus

Gordon, D. S., Rudinsky, A. J., Guillaumin, J., Parker, V. J., & Creighton, K. J. (2020). Vitamin C in Health and Disease: A Companion Animal Focus. Topics in Companion Animal Medicine, 39, 100432. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tcam.2020.100432

Key Findings:

This review, published in Topics in Companion Animal Medicine in 2020, examines the physiological role of vitamin C in dogs and cats, its impact on various health conditions, and the potential benefits of supplementation in critically ill animals. The authors analyze existing research on vitamin C’s involvement in metabolic functions such as immune modulation, oxidative stress control, and tissue maintenance. While dogs and cats can synthesize vitamin C in the liver, its levels may decline during illness, leading researchers to investigate whether supplementation could offer therapeutic advantages.

• Vitamin C Functions:
  • Plays a role in collagen synthesis, immune regulation, and antioxidant defense.
  • Acts as a cofactor in the production of neurotransmitters like catecholamines and vasopressin.
• Vitamin C and Disease:
  • Levels of vitamin C may be reduced in various disease states, including sepsis, liver disease, and some chronic conditions.
  • Low vitamin C in critically ill humans is associated with worse outcomes, prompting interest in its role in veterinary medicine.
• Potential Therapeutic Use:
  • Small human studies suggest intravenous vitamin C may help in septic shock.
  • While data in companion animals is limited, the review highlights its possible benefits, low cost, and minimal risks, making it a promising area for further research.

Relevance to Canine Health

Though dogs naturally produce vitamin C, factors like stress, illness, and oxidative damage may increase their needs. The potential for vitamin C supplementation as a supportive therapy in critically ill dogs aligns with Bernie’s University’s holistic approach to canine wellness.

Limitations & Future Research

• Limited clinical data on vitamin C supplementation in dogs and cats.
• More controlled studies are needed to determine appropriate dosing and efficacy in veterinary medicine.