Why is Taurine important for cats?
Taurine is an amino acid that is crucial for cats and must be obtained from their diet as it is not synthesised in their body (VCA Animal Hospitals, n.d.).
Here are five major aspects in which Taurine plays a significant role:
Taurine and Heart Health: Taurine is essential for maintaining normal heart function in cats. A deficiency in taurine can lead to an enlarged and weakened heart, a condition known as dilated cardiomyopathy (Weir & Ward, n.d.).
Immune Function: Taurine contributes to a healthy immune system, helping cats fight off infections and diseases (Crossroads Animal Hospital, 2018).
Vision: Taurine is especially crucial for retinal health. If cats don't get enough taurine in their food, it can cause retinal degeneration, leading to irreversible blindness. Taurine deficiency can result in a condition known as taurine deficiency retinopathy, which also leads to blindness (National Academies Press, 2006).
Reproduction and Foetal Development: Pregnant cats require adequate taurine to support the growth and development of their offspring. For queens (unsterilised female cats), taurine is crucial for the proper development of kittens in the womb (VCA Animal Hospitals, n.d.).
Digestive Health: Taurine aids in bile salt formation, which is necessary for fat digestion and absorption in a cat's body. It helps keep the digestive process functioning properly as it is required for bile conjugation (Lysine & Taurine for Cats, 2018).
Since taurine is so essential, commercial cat foods are formulated to include adequate amounts, especially in foods that contain less animal protein, such as dry kibble. It is particularly important for cat owners to ensure their pets receive a diet rich in taurine as deficiencies can lead to severe health issues. We at Smylo understand that our pets are members of our families, which is why all our recipes have added taurine in carefully calculated amounts.
We also understand that the safest and best food is one that is made in front of you, and goes from your own hands to your cat's bowl. And while there's absolutely nothing wrong with feeding a homemade diet to your cat, if this is something you're considering, it’s important to consult with a veterinarian and nutritionist to ensure it includes sufficient taurine (National Academies Press, 2006).
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References
Crossroads Animal Hospital. (2018, September 24). What is taurine and why do cats need it? Crossroads Animal Hospital. Retrieved from https://www.crossroadsanimalhospital.ca/resources/blog/september-2018/what-is-taurine-and-why-do-cats-need-it
Lysine & Taurine for Cats. (2018, September 7). Revival Animal Health. Retrieved from https://www.revivalanimal.com/learning-center/lysine-and-taurine-for-cats
National Academies Press. (2006). Your cat's nutritional needs: A science-based guide for pet owners. National Academies Press. Retrieved from https://nap.nationalacademies.org/resource/10668/cat_nutrition_final.pdf
VCA Animal Hospitals. (n.d.). Taurine in Cats. VCA Animal Hospitals. Retrieved from https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/taurine-in-cats
Weir, M., & Ward, E. (n.d.). Cardiomyopathy in cats | VCA Animal Hospitals. VCA. https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/cardiomyopathy-in-cats