Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)

Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) In Dogs & Cats: Uses, Dosage and Side Effects

Overview

• Cofactor for enzymes in carbohydrate metabolism, it forms a compound with ATP to form thiamine diphosphate/thiamine pyrophosphate employed in carbohydrate metabolism.
• It does not affect blood glucose.

Uses of Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)

• Thiamine supplementation is required in deficient animals.
• Thiamine may be beneficial in alleviating signs of lead poisoning and ethylene glycol intoxication.
• Although uncommon deficiency may occur in animals fed raw fish diets or uncooked soy products.

Dose of Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) in Dogs and Cats

Dogs:

• Vitamin B1 deficiency: 50–250 mg/dog i.m., s.c., p.o. q12–24h for several days until signs resolve.
• Lead poisoning: 2 mg/kg i.m., s.c. q12h.
• Ethylene glycol intoxication: 100 mg/dog i.m., s.c., p.o. q24h.

Cats:

• Vitamin B1 deficiency: 10–25 mg/cat i.m., s.c. q12–24h for several days until signs resolve or 10–20 mg/kg i.m. until signs resolve then 10 mg/kg p.o. for 21 days.

Side Effects of Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) in Dogs and Cats

• Anaphylaxis can be seen with i.v. use; dilute with fluids and/or give slowly if using i.v.
• Adverse effects in pregnant animals are documented.

Contraindications of Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) in Dogs and Cats

• Do not use in pregnant animals unless absolutely necessary.

Some Notes:

• There are no specific clinical interactions reported, although thiamine may enhance the activity of neuromuscular blocking agents.