Taurine is one of the most important nutrients in a cat's diet, and one of the most misunderstood. Here's what it does, which cats may not get enough, and how to decide whether a supplement fits your cat's routine.
What is taurine?
Taurine is an amino acid. Most mammals, including dogs and people, can make enough of it from other nutrients. Cats can't, so taurine is an essential nutrient for them: it has to come from their food every day. It's found naturally in animal tissues like muscle meat and heart, and it isn't found in plants.
Why taurine matters for cats
Taurine supports several body systems, including:
- Heart muscle function
- Vision, through the health of the retina
- Digestion, as a part of bile salts
- Reproduction and kitten development
When cats don't get enough taurine over time, they can develop serious problems, most notably a heart muscle disease called dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and a type of retinal degeneration that can lead to vision loss. Retinal damage is generally permanent, which is why prevention matters.
Which cats are at risk?
The good news: taurine deficiency is now uncommon in cats that eat a complete and balanced commercial cat food, because these foods are formulated with taurine. Look for a nutritional adequacy statement on the label. Cats at higher risk include those that:
- Eat a home-prepared diet that wasn't formulated by a veterinary nutritionist
- Eat a vegetarian or plant-heavy diet
- Regularly eat dog food instead of cat food
- Have a medical condition your vet has linked to low taurine
Signs to watch for
Early taurine deficiency often has no obvious signs. Later signs can include tiredness, breathing difficulty, reluctance to jump, bumping into objects or other vision changes. These signs can also come from other illnesses, so contact your veterinarian promptly if you notice them. A vet can check blood taurine levels and examine your cat's heart and eyes.
When does a taurine supplement make sense?
Most healthy cats eating a complete commercial cat food don't need extra taurine. A supplement may be worth discussing with your vet if your cat eats homemade meals, if you're transitioning diets, or if your vet has recommended extra taurine. Always follow the serving directions on the label and your veterinarian's advice.
If taurine is part of your cat's plan, our Taurine Powder for Cats comes in a resealable 200 g container and mixes into wet food. Browse more products for cats and our daily wellness essentials.
FAQ
Why do cats need taurine?
Cats can't make enough taurine on their own, and they need it for heart function, vision, digestion and reproduction.
Does cat food have enough taurine?
Complete and balanced commercial cat foods are formulated to meet cats' taurine needs. Homemade, vegetarian and dog-food diets are the most common reasons cats run low.
Can I give my cat a taurine supplement?
Ask your veterinarian first, especially if your cat has a health condition. If your vet agrees, follow the product's serving directions.