![]() Since taurine levels are regulated in commercially prepared cat food, cats that are fed home-cooked meals can risk developing taurine deficiency. If a taurine deficiency is suspected, your veterinarian will conduct a series of tests, including blood work, chest X-rays and eye examinations. As a result, taurine deficiency in cats can lead to conditions such as blindness, tooth decay and heart issues, including dilated cardiomyopathy, which is heart failure due to enlargement of the heart.Ĭlinical signs of taurine deficiency in cats develop slowly over time, so most health issues resulting from a deficiency will not become evident until the cat starts showing symptoms of the aforementioned conditions. Taurine is distributed in high concentrations in several key areas of a cat’s body, including the heart wall muscles, the retina of the eye and the brain. Since taurine is an essential amino acid, a lack of taurine for cats can cause severe health problems. It is crucial for normal heart, vision, digestive and reproductive health,” explains Dr. “Taurine is a vital part of cat nutrition needs. Taurine is found in animal-based proteins, and, thus, it is naturally occurring in all cat food. Amino acids provide the foundation for proteins and are necessary to many systems of the body so that they can function efficiently.Ĭats are carnivores, which mean they are designed to survive entirely on protein. Rachel Barrack, DVM, CVA, CVCH of Animal Acupuncture in New York City. “Taurine is an essential amino acid for cats, which means they cannot synthesize it within their own body and must obtain it through diet,” explains Dr. ![]() So, why is taurine for cats so important? We spoke with a veterinarian to find out the benefits and sources of taurine for cats. Aside from vitamins and minerals, one key nutrient you’re serving her is taurine, an amino acid that is essential to your cat’s health! When you pour your kitty a bowl of cat kibble, you’re giving her more than the tasty animal meat she craves.
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