Cat Hypervitaminosis A and Raw Feeding Risks

Hypervitaminosis A is a serious and preventable nutritional disease in cats caused by feeding raw liver-heavy diets, causing permanent skeletal damage.

Key Facts

Cats are particularly susceptible to vitamin A toxicity because they cannot downregulate absorption
Hypervitaminosis A causes cervical spondylosis — painful bony fusion of the spine
The condition develops from prolonged feeding of liver as a primary protein source
Once bony fusion develops it is irreversible, though progression can be halted by diet change
Properly formulated commercial diets and complete raw feeding diets avoid this problem

Welfare Considerations

Hypervitaminosis A is an entirely preventable welfare condition caused by well-intentioned but uninformed feeding choices. Cats fed primarily on raw liver develop progressive, painful spinal fusion that severely restricts movement and causes chronic pain. By the time clinical signs are obvious, irreversible damage has occurred. Owners choosing raw or home-cooked diets for cats need clear guidance about the nutritional risks of unbalanced formulations. Consulting a board-certified veterinary nutritionist before implementing home-prepared or raw diets ensures nutritional completeness and avoids preventable disease.

What You Can Do

Never feed liver as more than 5-10% of a cat's total diet
Consult a veterinary nutritionist before feeding home-prepared or raw diets
Use complete and balanced commercial foods formulated to AAFCO or FEDIAF standards
Have cats on long-term home-prepared diets assessed for nutritional adequacy annually