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Vitamin B5 (Calcium Pantothenate)

Vitamin B5 (Calcium Pantothenate)

PRIMARY FUNCTION

Essential water-soluble B vitamin supporting energy metabolism, skin and coat health, immune function, and stress resilience in dogs and cats.

HOW IT SUPPORTS PET HEALTH

Vitamin B5, also known as pantothenic acid, is most commonly supplied in pet nutrition as calcium pantothenate. This vitamin is critical for the synthesis of coenzyme A, a molecule central to the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, making it vital for cellular energy production and overall metabolic health[2][1]. In addition to its metabolic roles, vitamin B5 supports the synthesis of hormones and neurotransmitters, aids in the production of red blood cells, and helps maintain a healthy digestive tract and skin barrier. Its importance is recognized in virtually every commercial pet food formulation[2][1][5].

FUNCTIONAL OVERVIEW

Calcium pantothenate plays a multifaceted role in maintaining health:

  • Energy Metabolism: Enables the conversion of food into energy by supporting coenzyme A production[2][1][5].
  • Skin & Coat Health: Promotes healthy skin and fur, helps reduce allergy symptoms by strengthening the skin barrier, and supports hydration and healing of the skin[2].
  • Immune Support: Aids in the production of antibodies and white blood cells, supporting immune defense[2].
  • Hormone & Neurotransmitter Synthesis: Supports adrenal function and stress-related hormone production[2][5].
  • Digestive Health: Maintains a healthy digestive tract by supporting mucosal integrity[2].

Pantothenic acid deficiency is rare in pets fed balanced diets, but can occur with malnutrition or highly processed foods[2][5].

COMMON VETERINARY USES
Species Studied
  • Dogs
  • Cats
Primary Benefits for Pets
  • Supports Healthy Energy Levels: Promotes vitality and activity by optimizing cellular metabolism[2][1][5].
  • Promotes Skin and Coat Quality: Reduces itching, redness, and supports a glossy coat, especially in pets with allergies or sensitive skin[2].
  • Enhances Immune Function: Bolsters immune response and helps pets better handle allergens and infections[2].
  • Supports Stress Response: Involved in the production of stress-related hormones, helping pets adapt to environmental stressors[2][5].
Veterinary Use Cases
  • Maintaining healthy skin and coat, especially in pets prone to allergies or dermatitis.
  • Supporting energy and metabolic health in active, growing, or aging pets.
  • Promoting immune resilience and recovery from illness or stress.
  • Preventing deficiency in pets on unbalanced or highly processed diets.
CONTRAINDICATIONS & SENSITIVITIES

Calcium pantothenate is considered extremely safe for all animal species, with a wide margin of safety and no reported adverse effects at nutritional levels[1][5]. As a water-soluble vitamin, excess amounts are excreted in urine, minimizing toxicity risk.

INGREDIENT SOURCING & QUALITY STANDARDS

Calcium pantothenate used in pet foods and supplements is manufactured to high purity standards and tested for potency and stability. It is approved for use in all animal species and is a standard ingredient in complete and balanced pet diets[1][5].

RESEARCH AT A GLANCE
  1. Metabolic and Skin Health: Calcium pantothenate is vital for energy metabolism, skin and coat health, and is included in nearly all pet food formulations. URL: https://www.petfoodindustry.com/ingredient-issues/vitamins/article/15461718/d-calcium-pantothenatea-vital-pet-food-b-vitamin
  2. Safety and Efficacy: Calcium D-pantothenate is safe and effective as a nutritional additive for all animal species, with no concerns for animal, consumer, or environmental health. URL: https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/efsajournal/pub/2409
  3. Role in Animal Nutrition: Pantothenic acid is an essential nutrient required by all animals for the synthesis of coenzyme A, with supplementation guidelines established for pets and livestock. URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pantothenic_acid
TRADITIONAL APPLICATIONS

Pantothenic acid-rich foods such as organ meats, eggs, and whole grains have long been recognized for supporting energy, skin, and overall vitality in both humans and animals.

DISCLAIMER

This ingredient overview is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered veterinary advice. Always consult with your veterinarian before introducing new supplements or making changes to your pet’s healthcare regimen.