Biotin

Biotin Biotin is one of eight water soluble vitamins that make up Vitamin B Complex. It took scientist nearly forty years after discovering biotin to establish it as a vitamin. Biotin is also known as Vitamin B7, B8, BH, or Vitamin H. Although biotin is not a true vitamin, because it is synthesized in the intestinal tract by microorganisms (bacteria). Biotin can only be synthesized by bacteria, molds, yeasts, algae, and by certain plant species. The attachment of biotin to another molecule, such as protein, is known as biotinylation. Biotin serves as a cofactor in the metabolism of glucose, lipids, some amino acids, and energy. It is vital for normal functioning. Meaning biotin helps in the process of making ATP, but a glycoprotein called avidin that's found in raw egg whites can bind to biotin making it unavailable to the body. Biotin is an essential vitamin for mammals that is absorbed through the small intestine. Excess biotin is eliminated by the kidneys and expelled out of the body through urine. You can find biotin in many different food sources. Egg yolks, liver, oilseeds, alfalfa meal, and brewer's yeast all contain biotin. Since it is a water soluble vitamin, a lot of it is lost during food processing. To fix this Biotin is supplemented into the food to replace what was lost. Biotin is used in supplements to benefit hair, skin, and nail growth. This is because it was first used for treating hoof abnormalities in horses and pigs. Deficiencies are very rare among dogs and cats. If you were to feed your animal raw egg whites with every meal over a period of time, then you would see some signs of deficiency. Although if you cook the egg whites then the biotin can be absorbed and used by the body. There is not a set RDA(recommended daily allowance) because the deficiencies are so rare. Clinical signs are different between dogs and cats. For cats you see Alopecia, dermatitis, and/or dull coat. In dogs the signs of deficiency