Vitamin K plays several critical roles in mammalian physiology, most notably as an essential cofactor for the clotting cascade — carboxylating clotting factors II, VII, IX, and X to their active forms. Without adequate vitamin K, these factors remain inactive and normal hemostasis becomes impossible. Dogs and cats with liver disease (impaired vitamin K storage), fat malabsorption syndromes, prolonged antibiotic therapy (which depletes vitamin K-producing gut flora), or those exposed to anticoagulant rodenticides all have significantly elevated risk of clinically relevant vitamin K deficiency.
Rx Vitamins Thera-K is a vitamin K1 (phylloquinone) and K2 (menaquinone) combination liquid supplement in a bacon-flavoured base for easy oral administration. The inclusion of both K1 and K2 is clinically meaningful: K1 is the primary coagulation cofactor used rapidly in the clotting cascade, while K2 has additional roles in bone metabolism and cardiovascular calcification prevention that K1 does not fulfill as effectively.
The liquid format allows precise weight-based dosing, critical in conditions like anticoagulant rodenticide toxicity where rapid dose escalation may be needed under veterinary guidance. Bacon flavouring makes administration straightforward even for pets that are unwell. Each 120 ml bottle provides an extended supply for ongoing hepatic or malabsorptive management.
- Vitamin K1 (phylloquinone) — direct cofactor for clotting factor activation
- Vitamin K2 (menaquinone) — bone and cardiovascular vitamin K form
- Liquid format — precise weight-based dosing, fast for acute scenarios
- Bacon flavour — high palatability even in unwell pets
- 120 ml — extended supply for chronic liver disease or malabsorption management
Key Ingredients
Vitamin K1 (phylloquinone) — the most bioavailable form for coagulation pathway support. Vitamin K2 (menaquinone-7) — long-chain menaquinone supporting bone mineralization and vascular health. Bacon flavour base — water-soluble carrier for oral administration.
Directions for Use
Dose as directed by your veterinarian based on body weight and clinical indication. For anticoagulant rodenticide exposure, dosing is urgent — contact a veterinarian immediately. For chronic supplementation, mix into food at each meal or administer orally by syringe. Shake well before each use.
Supplement Advisor's Note
Thera-K is one of those supplements that belongs in the cabinet of any household with dogs that spend time outdoors, particularly in regions where rodenticide use is common. Second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides (brodifacoum, bromadiolone) have a prolonged half-life in the body, and clinical coagulopathy can develop days after exposure — after the pet seems to have "recovered" from eating the bait. Vitamin K1 supplementation must continue for 4–6 weeks post-exposure with these compounds. Having Thera-K on hand means you can begin dosing immediately upon suspected exposure while awaiting veterinary assessment, which may be lifesaving in areas with delayed access to emergency care.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Thera-K a treatment for rodenticide poisoning?
- Vitamin K1 supplementation is the cornerstone of anticoagulant rodenticide treatment. Thera-K provides the vitamin K needed, but suspected or confirmed rodenticide exposure always requires immediate veterinary assessment — do not substitute supplementation for professional care.
- Why does it include both K1 and K2?
- K1 is the primary coagulation cofactor. K2 has additional benefits in bone health and cardiovascular calcification prevention. For long-term supplementation in liver disease or malabsorption, the combined formula provides broader vitamin K support.
- Is Thera-K suitable for cats?
- Yes, with appropriate weight-based dosing. Cats are also susceptible to vitamin K deficiency in similar clinical scenarios.
- Does vitamin K supplementation interfere with blood thinners prescribed by a vet?
- Yes — vitamin K and anticoagulant therapy directly interact. Thera-K should only be used under veterinary direction in any patient also receiving pharmaceutical anticoagulants.
- How long does an open bottle remain potent?
- Refrigerate after opening and use within 90 days. Keep away from light, which degrades vitamin K.
