Taurine cats series#

How Are Cats Affected If They Don't Receive Enough Taurine?Ī taurine deficiency can cause many problems in cats, including:

If they don't receive enough of this essential amino acid in their food, their health will eventually begin to decline. Although people and dogs can synthesize taurine from other amino acids, cats cannot. Amino acids that must be obtained through diet alone are known as 'essential' amino acids. The acids aid in the metabolic process and play an important role in the transportation and storage of nutrients.Īlthough many amino acids are produced by the body, some can only be obtained through food. Taurine is an amino acid that helps keep your pet healthy and prevents a variety of serious health problems.Īmino acids help the body's cells create proteins needed for the proper functioning of every part of the human and feline body. If you've ever taken a close look at the small print on a bag or can of cat food, you've probably noticed that taurine is among the list of ingredients. With added taurine, this supplemental formula supports sustained energy levels, a healthy immune system, optimal digestion and normal weight.Taurine: The Amino Acid Essential to Your Cat's Health The Missing Link Ultimate Feline Formula.In addition to the naturally occurring taurine, this kibble is supplemented with added taurine, so you can be sure that your kitty is getting the nutrients she needs to thrive. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Rocky Mountain Recipe with Rabbit Grain-Free Dry Cat Food.With a recipe that contains 40% protein and additional taurine supplements, American Journey is a great option for the kitties of all ages. American Journey Turkey & Chicken Recipe Grain-Free Dry Cat Food.Here are some options of nutritionally complete cat foods that ensure your cat gets adequate amounts of taurine: Supplements like Vetoquinol Felovite or Vetriscience NuCat Multivitamin can be added to your cat’s diet for the best cat nutrition.Ĭats with certain diseases may be more likely to develop taurine deficiency, so if your pet is suffering from a chronic disease, regular checkups with your veterinarian are even more important. If you do decide that home-cooked meals are the right option for your cat, consult your veterinarian to ensure you are providing the right amount of necessary taurine for cats. Since taurine levels are regulated in commercially prepared cat food, cats that are fed home-cooked meals can risk developing taurine deficiency.

Taurine cats series#

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. 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! Why Taurine for Cats Is so Important When you pour your kitty a bowl of cat kibble, you’re giving her more than the tasty animal meat she craves.