Is there a vegan source of taurine?

The main taurine sources are meat, dairy, fish — and studies show cooking food doesn’t affect a food’s taurine content. Because there are few plant-based foods containing taurine, people who are vegetarian and vegan may require a taurine supplement to meet their desired daily intake.

What is a natural source of taurine for cats?

Meat and fish are excellent sources of taurine. As obligate carnivores, cats need to consume meat in order to be healthy. Pet food is regulated by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) and taurine is so important for cats that the AAFCO lists it as a necessary nutrient in cat foods.

Does vegan cat food have taurine?

Fortunately, taurine and arginine are both easily synthesized from vegan sources. Any reputable brand of vegan cat food will therefore feature taurine and arginine in their ingredients.

Can cats be vegan with supplements?

Taurine can be synthesized in humans and dogs, but cats are unable to do this and require a direct source from an animal product. Cats who are fed a vegan diet will often develop a deficiency of taurine because the diet doesn’t provide them with this essential amino acid.

Can cats have synthetic taurine?

Synthetic taurine is considered efficacious for use in cat, dog and carnivorous fish diets. In the case of poultry, pigs and ruminants, no studies demonstrating beneficial effects of taurine supplementation on performance, health or product quality have been found.

Do cats need taurine?

Most mammals are able to manufacture enough taurine from other amino acids to meet their needs. However, cats have a limited ability to manufacture taurine; therefore, taurine is classified as an essential nutrient in the cat.

How can I get more taurine in my cat’s diet?

Cat foods that contain high-quality animal-based protein will supply adequate levels of taurine for a normal, healthy cat. Dog food does not contain enough taurine to meet the normal requirements for a cat.

Is synthetic taurine safe for cats?

Can cats eat synthetic taurine?

Cats require the same nine essential amino acids that are needed in the diet of all mammals. However, in addition, cats also require arginine and taurine. Taurine is found naturally in meat but can be supplied in synthetic form.

Can a cat get too much taurine?

Taurine is very safe and there have not been any reports of toxicity from cats eating too much taurine so it is a great idea to give your cat supplements that include Taurine, especially if they have a heart condition.

What happens if a cat doesn’t get taurine?

If a cat does not get enough Taurine the cells in the cat’s retinas will slowly degrade and the quality of the cat’s vision will degrade. The cat will develop cardiomyopathy as the heart muscles become compromised.