Tuesday 19 July 2022

What Happens When A Cat Lacks Taurine In Her Diet?

 

Since taurine has lots of functions in the bodies of cats, feline taurine deficiency has critical health effects. 

Diet is the primary reason why cats develop a deficiency in taurine.  Cats fed with homemade meals that do not contain enough proteins from animal sources are likely to develop taurine deficiencies.  Also, cats who somehow prefer to eat dog food could be taurine-deficient since commercial dog food is not supplemented with high enough taurine levels needed by cats. 

Signs that a cat is a taurine-deficient manifest slowly.  It could take anywhere between a few months and several years for signs to be noticeable.

Taurine deficiency in cats makes them more vulnerable to developing important health issues such as feline central retinal degeneration (FCRD). Taurine is important in maintaining retinal health.  A deficiency in taurine makes the retinal cells known as photoreceptors start degrading.  Degradation like this leads to permanent blindness since it is not reversible. 

Your veterinarian Coral Springs, FL is a valuable source of information about your pet's diet and nutritional needs.


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