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Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine HCl / Pyridoxal 5’-Phosphate)

Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine HCl / Pyridoxal 5’-Phosphate)

PRIMARY FUNCTION

Essential water-soluble vitamin supporting protein metabolism, nervous system health, immune function, red blood cell formation, and hormone regulation in dogs and cats.

HOW IT SUPPORTS PET HEALTH

Vitamin B6, present as pyridoxine hydrochloride and its active form pyridoxal 5’-phosphate, is vital for the metabolism of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates in both dogs and cats. It is required for synthesizing neurotransmitters, supporting cognitive function, regulating hormone activity, and maintaining healthy immune responses. Vitamin B6 is also necessary for hemoglobin production, red blood cell formation, and the synthesis of niacin from tryptophan. Cats have a particularly high requirement for vitamin B6 due to their high protein metabolism and neurotransmitter activity[3][2][1].

FUNCTIONAL OVERVIEW

Vitamin B6 acts as a coenzyme in numerous biochemical reactions, including:

  • Neurotransmitter Synthesis: Enables production of serotonin, dopamine, and GABA, supporting brain health and mood regulation[2][1].
  • Protein and Amino Acid Metabolism: Facilitates breakdown and utilization of dietary proteins and amino acids[2][1].
  • Immune System Support: Promotes formation of white blood cells and antibodies, strengthening immune defense[3][2].
  • Red Blood Cell Formation: Required for hemoglobin synthesis and oxygen transport throughout the body[3][2].
  • Hormone Regulation: Involved in the synthesis of hormones and maintenance of sodium-potassium balance[2][1].

Deficiency can result in anemia, neurological signs (including seizures and ataxia), poor growth, and skin disorders, with risk increasing in older or chronically ill animals[3][1].

COMMON VETERINARY USES
Species Studied
  • Dogs
  • Cats
Primary Benefits for Pets
  • Supports Cognitive and Nervous System Health: Aids in neurotransmitter production and brain development[2][1].
  • Promotes Healthy Immune Function: Enhances resistance to infection and supports antibody production[3][2].
  • Enables Protein Metabolism and Growth: Facilitates muscle development and tissue repair[2][1].
  • Red Blood Cell and Hemoglobin Synthesis: Prevents anemia and supports oxygen delivery throughout the body[3][2].
  • Hormonal and Metabolic Balance: Supports hormone synthesis and metabolic regulation[2][1].
Veterinary Use Cases
  • Preventing and treating vitamin B6 deficiency, especially in older, chronically ill, or high-protein-requirement pets[3][1].
  • Supporting growth, cognitive health, and immune function in puppies, kittens, and senior pets[3][1].
  • Adjunct therapy for certain anemias, neurological disorders, and metabolic imbalances[2][1].
CONTRAINDICATIONS & SENSITIVITIES

Vitamin B6 is water-soluble and considered very safe at nutritional levels; excess is excreted in urine, minimizing toxicity risk. However, extremely high doses may cause sensory neuropathy in dogs, as demonstrated in experimental studies[1]. Pyridoxine hydrochloride is regarded as safe for all animal species at commercial use levels[2].

INGREDIENT SOURCING & QUALITY STANDARDS

Pyridoxine HCl and pyridoxal 5’-phosphate used in pet supplements are manufactured to high purity standards and tested for potency and stability. They are approved for use in all animal species and are standard ingredients in complete and balanced pet foods[2].

RESEARCH AT A GLANCE
  1. Vitamin B6 Status in Cats: Research shows that vitamin B6 deficiency is more common in older or ill cats, and supplementation may be indicated in animals with infectious, chronic, or acute conditions. URL: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-024-52367-y
  2. Biochemical and Clinical Roles: Pyridoxine and pyridoxal 5’-phosphate are essential for amino acid metabolism, neurotransmitter synthesis, and hemoglobin production in animals. URL: https://go.drugbank.com/drugs/DB00165
  3. Safety and Metabolic Functions: Pyridoxine hydrochloride is a safe and effective source of vitamin B6 for all animal species, supporting protein, fat, and carbohydrate metabolism and neuroprotection. URL: https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/efsajournal/pub/1917
TRADITIONAL APPLICATIONS

Vitamin B6-rich foods such as poultry, fish, and organ meats have long been valued for supporting energy, brain, and immune health 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.