Essential cofactor for methionine synthase (methylation reactions) and methylmalonyl-CoA mutase (odd-chain fatty acid metabolism). Deficiency causes megaloblastic anemia, neurological dysfunction, and GI mucosal atrophy. Not synthesized by mammals — dependent on dietary intake and ileal absorption.
At a glance
Class
Water-Soluble Vitamin / Hematopoietic Factor
Storage
Store at room temperature; protect from light (photosensitive); injectable — use immediately or refrigerate
Dosing
Supplementation essential in EPI, ileal disease, IBD, and chronic GI disease (co
Frequency
Weekly initially (see notes)
Hypocobalaminemia is a negative prognostic indicator in cats with IBD and alimen
Frequency
Weekly → biweekly → monthly (taper)
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
Find a vet near you →Safety
Serum cobalamin levels (target >300 ng/L dogs; >290 ng/L cats)Response of GI signsBody weight
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
Find a vet near you →Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Cobalamin (Vitamin B12)?
Cobalamin (Vitamin B12) is a water-soluble vitamin / hematopoietic factor used in pets. Essential cofactor for methionine synthase (methylation reactions) and methylmalonyl-CoA mutase (odd-chain fatty acid metabolism). Deficiency causes megaloblastic anemia, neurological dysfunction, and GI mucosal atrophy. Not synthesized by mammals — dependent on dietary intake and ileal absorption.
›What is Cobalamin (Vitamin B12) used for in pets?
Cobalamin (Vitamin B12) is used in veterinary medicine for: Supplementation essential in EPI, ileal disease, IBD, and chronic GI disease (co; Hypocobalaminemia is a negative prognostic indicator in cats with IBD and alimen.
›What is the Cobalamin (Vitamin B12) dose for dogs?
For dogs, Cobalamin (Vitamin B12) is typically dosed as follows — Supplementation essential in EPI, ileal disease, IBD, and chronic GI disease (co: 250–1000 mcg SQ (preferred)/IM Weekly initially (see notes). Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Cobalamin (Vitamin B12) dose for cats?
For cats, Cobalamin (Vitamin B12) is typically dosed as follows — Hypocobalaminemia is a negative prognostic indicator in cats with IBD and alimen: undefined undefined SQ/IM/PO Weekly → biweekly → monthly (taper). Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Cobalamin (Vitamin B12) need a prescription?
Cobalamin (Vitamin B12) is available over the counter. Even so, you should consult your veterinarian before giving any medication to your pet.
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
Find a vet near you →References
CDSCO approvals (India) — 1
FDC Butafosfane +Cyanocobalamin injection Finished Formulation
M/s Bayer Limited · Approved 04.03.1998
for veterinary use
Source: CDSCO Veterinary Drug Approval Registry (1969–2026)
References
The PetCare.AI drug reference is built from 13 authoritative sources cited across 580 drug monographs.
Textbooks & handbooks — 5
- Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook
- Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology
- Merck Veterinary Manual
- NRC Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats
- Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics (Riviere & Papich)
Clinical guidelines & consensus — 4
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Guidelines
- AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines
- ASPCA Poison Control Guidelines
- RECOVER CPR Guidelines
Journals & peer-reviewed studies — 2
- EPIC Study (J Vet Intern Med 2016)
- JVIM FAT CAT Study
Regulatory & approvals — 1
- CDSCO Veterinary Drug Approval Registry (1969–2026)
Databases — 1
- Washington State University VCPL MDR1 Database