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The Importance of Taurine in Kitten Foods
The Importance of Taurine in Kitten Foods

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The Importance of Taurine in Kitten Foods

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Taurine is an important component found in all IAMS™ kitten foods. This essential amino acid is critical for normal heart muscle function, vision and reproduction in kittens. It is also needed to form the bile salts that aid in digestion. Unlike other amino acids, taurine is found as a free amino acid in body tissues, such as the heart and eyes, and is not incorporated into proteins.

 

Most mammals manufacture taurine from other amino acids. However, kittens cannot manufacture a sufficient amount and therefore must acquire enough additional taurine through diet to meet their needs. In pet food, taurine is naturally found in animal-based protein ingredients and also can be added separately.

 

Why Does IAMS Add Taurine to Kitten Diets?

IAMS kitten foods are formulated with high-quality animal-based proteins as their primary ingredient. In addition, they are supplemented with extra taurine.

 

IAMS dry kitten foods, such as IAMS™ Proactive Health™ Mother and Kitten includes taurine as an ingredient to supplement the primary source of this amino acid, which is animal-based protein from sources such as chicken, egg, lamb and fish. However, these sources can vary in their taurine content, and adding more taurine is a sound approach to ensure optimal taurine levels.

 

Effects of Taurine Deficiency

Kittens that eat a diet deficient in taurine can develop several serious health conditions.

 

Blindness

Taurine is essential to the proper development and function of cells in the retina of the eye. If insufficient taurine is present, the retinal cells don’t function properly and may die, eventually causing impaired vision and even blindness. This process is referred to as feline central retinal degeneration.

 

Heart Disease

Taurine is also necessary for normal function of the heart muscle cells. Taurine deficiency leads to a weakening of the heart muscle, which, in turn, can lead to heart failure. This condition is known as dilated cardiomyopathy and can be fatal.

 

To help protect your kitten’s health, both now and when she is fully grown, make sure to feed a diet with sufficient taurine. Learn more about the nutritional needs of kittens.

 

Reference

Case L, et al. Canine and Feline Nutrition. 3rd ed. Maryland Heights, MO: Mosby Elsevier, 2011.

 

  • The Many Perks of Being a Cat Person
    The Many Perks of Being a Cat Person
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    The Many Perks of Being a Cat Person

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    What is it about owning a cat that just makes life better? After all, cat ownership isn’t all snuggles and purrs — it can be a big responsibility. They eat every day. (Who would’ve guessed?) They need routine health care, just like their owner. Some cats are serious fur factories, and some will hack up hairballs the size of a kitten. Despite all of the duties and challenges, owning a cat improves our lives. Let’s dive into how cats help humans.

    The Many Perks of Being a Cat Person

    The Myth of the Sour Puss

    You’ve probably heard that cats are aloof, but that’s not always the case. They can be affectionate, playful and highly attached to their owners, much like a dog. It’s just that cats are at a disadvantage versus dogs because they don’t have the facial physiology that lets their canine counterparts “smile” all the time. 

     

    So, don’t be fooled — cats are not only happy; they’re also immensely talented at bringing joy to their humans. In the market for crazy antics one minute, soft cuddles the next? Cats are a low-risk, high-yield investment in complex personalities.

    The Myth of the Sour Puss

    The Good Feeling of Doing Good

    With any cat adoption, you are literally saving that animal’s life. Plus, you’re supporting the organization you adopt from, which in turn allows them to help more animals in need, so you’re basically a hero. And all these good feelings happen before you even bring your new kitty home!

    The Good Feeling of Doing Good

    Scratching that Itch for Cat Companionship

    Who couldn’t use another friend? Especially one that’s a furry, adorable biscuit factory. Research shows that having a cat can reduce stress and increase confidence, and it’s hard to beat quality time with a cat for anxiety relief. Journalist Jane Pauley once said, “You cannot look at a sleeping cat and feel tense.”

    Scratching that Itch for Cat Companionship

    The Pitter-patter of Tiny Feet and Tinier Paws

    Adopting a cat can be a great move for children, too. There’s no better way to nurture values such as responsibility and empathy than with a frolicky, purr-motored pal. A survey of parents found that children who had bonded with a feline friend enjoyed a higher quality of life. (They wanted to survey the cats too, but there was a sunny spot on the carpet that needed to be napped in, so …)

     

    Cats are amazing. They entertain us by defying gravity and contorting themselves into spine-twisting postures. An inquisitive meow or a nudge with their head can totally banish a bad mood. They are the perfect companion to all. If you’re thinking about adding a cute, fluffy, serotonin-boosting kitty cat, this is your sign: Do it!