The role of
vitamins
in the immune system of cats and dogs By Marijke van de Beek-Weij, MSc and Kevin Truyts, MSc, DSM Nutritional Products
Making the most of a healthy and enjoyable life is only possible when our
by the mother’s antibodies which are transmitted during gestation.
body is defended by an immune system that is nutritionally supported
This maternal protection becomes inadequate about 4 to 8 weeks
to work at its best. For us and for our pets, the immune system fights
after birth as the provided antibodies decrease below a protection
harmful bacteria and keeps other toxins that have invaded the body
threshold, resulting in an immunity gap. Provided the right nutrients
from making us ill. It is a complex and adaptive system that consists
via proper nutrition, young animals develop their own immune system
of many general functions, with complementary action to support
over time.
optimum health. Through this adaptive functionality and support,
During adulthood the dog’s or cat’s immune system remains fully
it can develop a memory against infections, infectious agents and
functional provided their daily diet delivers an adequate amount of
foreign substances.
key nutrients. With older age their immune function begins to decline,
Young animals like puppies and kittens are most susceptible to
resulting in poorer antibody response at senior age (1, 2, 3).
infections as their immune system is not fully developed yet, because
Therefore, throughout all life stages, an optimal supply of key
they have had little exposure to external threats like bacteria, viruses
nutritional ingredients in a pet’s diet is the best solution to ensure a
and foreign substances. A newborn’s immune defences are supported
high performing immune defence. Providing the proper nutrients has a significant influence on the ability of the immune system to manage disease challenges. Some examples of how different nutrients can help support the immune system to the benefit of the dog or cat are: • β-carotene and vitamin A stimulate cellular and humoral immune responses. • Various B vitamins are associated with improved immunity. • A high concentration of vitamin C stimulates the effectiveness of white blood cells to destroy foreign bacteria. • Vitamin D controls the activity of T- and B-lymphocytes, which are important in the adaptive immune system.
Functioning of the immune system (See Figure 1) The body’s natural barriers, such as skin, villi and mucous membranes, play an initial role in the first line of defence against
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Pet Food Supplement 2021
