Essential fat-soluble vitamin that binds retinoic acid receptors (RAR/RXR), regulating gene transcription for epithelial differentiation, immune function, vision (retinal component of rhodopsin), and reproduction. Deficiency causes squamous metaplasia and immune dysfunction.
At a glance
Storage
Store at room temperature, protect from light
Dosing
Rarely needed in dogs on commercial diets
Cats fed liver-heavy diets can develop hypervitaminosis A (cervical spondylosis,
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 retinol levels if toxicity suspectedHepatic enzymesRadiographs (skeletal changes in cats with chronic excess)
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 Vitamin A (Retinol)?
Vitamin A (Retinol) is a fat-soluble vitamin used in pets. Essential fat-soluble vitamin that binds retinoic acid receptors (RAR/RXR), regulating gene transcription for epithelial differentiation, immune function, vision (retinal component of rhodopsin), and reproduction. Deficiency causes squamous metaplasia and immune dysfunction.
›What is Vitamin A (Retinol) used for in pets?
Vitamin A (Retinol) is used in veterinary medicine for: Rarely needed in dogs on commercial diets; Cats fed liver-heavy diets can develop hypervitaminosis A (cervical spondylosis,.
›What is the Vitamin A (Retinol) dose for dogs?
For dogs, Vitamin A (Retinol) is typically dosed as follows — Rarely needed in dogs on commercial diets: 400–800 IU/kg PO q24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Vitamin A (Retinol) dose for cats?
For cats, Vitamin A (Retinol) is typically dosed as follows — Cats fed liver-heavy diets can develop hypervitaminosis A (cervical spondylosis,: undefined undefined PO q24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Vitamin A (Retinol) need a prescription?
Vitamin A (Retinol) 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
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