Niacin (vitamin B3) is essential for energy metabolism, converting fats, proteins, and carbohydrates into usable energy through its role in the coenzymes NAD and NADP. Like chickens, cats have a very limited ability to convert the amino acid tryptophan into niacin, which means they depend more heavily on preformed niacin from their diet. Fortunately, meat — especially poultry and fish — is an excellent source of niacin. Niacin also supports healthy skin, proper digestive function, and nervous system maintenance.
A small serving of cooked chicken breast (about 30g) provides roughly 4–5mg of niacin — your adult cat needs approximately 3–8mg per day. Meat-based diets provide niacin abundantly, and commercial cat foods are formulated to meet this requirement with a comfortable margin.
0.02% of daily nutrient intake
Vitamin B3 (Niacin) makes up 0.02% of your cat's total daily nutritional requirements by weight. That's a tiny amount — but it matters.
Loss of appetite, weight loss, inflamed gums and tongue, skin ulcers, unkempt coat, diarrhea, and in severe cases (historically called pellagra in humans), neurological dysfunction. Deficiency is rare in cats eating meat-based diets.
Niacin has a wide safety margin in cats when provided through food sources. Very high supplemental doses could theoretically cause flushing, liver stress, or gastrointestinal upset, but this is not a dietary concern.
| Life Stage | Size | Min | Max | Unit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult | — | 3 | 8 | mg | Cats have limited ability to convert tryptophan to niacin, making dietary preformed niacin especially important. Meat is the primary source. |
| Juvenile | — | 3 | 10 | mg | Growing kittens need niacin for energy metabolism and proper development. Kitten food formulations provide adequate levels. |
Source: NRC 2006, AAFCO 2024
