Observations on the prevention of cleft palate in dogs by folic acid and potential relevance to humans

Authors: Elwood JM, Colquhoun TA
Publication: New Zealand Veterinary Journal, Volume 45, Issue 6, pp 254-256, Dec 1997
Publisher: Taylor and Francis

Animal type: Companion animal, Dog, Human
Subject Terms: Alimentary system/gastroenterology, Congenital disease, Diet/rations/food, Nervous system/neurology, Nutrition/metabolism, Oral/teeth, Treatment/therapy, Vitamins
Article class: Short Communication

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Abstract: Folic acid has been shown to prevent neural tube defects in humans, but its effects on other defects is unknown. In a consistent breeding programme of Boston terrier dogs started in 1974, folic acid supplementation (5 mg/day) was introduced in 1981. The frequency of cleft palate fell from 9/51 (17.6%) without folic acid to 8/191 (4.2%) after its introduction, giving a reduction of 76% (95% confidence limits 42%-90%, p = 0.003).

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