Supplement
Taurine
A sulphur-containing amino acid essential in the diets of cats and required in higher amounts by some dog breeds.
Illustrative cover using relevant category imagery; it does not depict the exact subject.
Who can eat it
CatsFerretsDogs on certain diets under veterinary direction
Not suitable for
Not needed as a supplement for herbivores
Benefits
- Prevents dilated cardiomyopathy and central retinal degeneration in cats
- Supports bile salt formation and reproduction
Risks
- Deficiency develops on vegetarian or poorly formulated homemade diets
- Excess is generally excreted, but supplementation should still be vet-directed
Preparation and serving
- Preparation
- Present in all complete commercial cat foods; supplements come as powder or capsules.
- Serving guidance
- Only supplement on veterinary advice, typically when a heart or retinal problem has been identified.
Before offering taurine
- Check the exact animal and preparation: the listed suitability is Cats; Ferrets; Dogs on certain diets under veterinary direction. A food being edible does not make it a complete diet.
- Follow the preparation advice: Present in all complete commercial cat foods; supplements come as powder or capsules. Do not substitute a seasoned or processed version and assume the same safety.
- Portion guidance: Only supplement on veterinary advice, typically when a heart or retinal problem has been identified. For a pet on a prescribed diet, discuss extras with the vet first.
- If your pet develops vomiting, diarrhoea or discomfort, stop offering the extra and seek advice. Suspected poisoning or breathing difficulty needs immediate veterinary help.
Educational reference, not an individual diagnosis or a verified professional review. Read our editorial policy.
Guidance libraries and further reading
These organisations publish relevant guidance. Their links are further reading, not evidence that they have reviewed this page.
- WSAVA — global veterinary guidelines on nutrition, vaccination, pain and dental care
- PDSA — veterinary charity pet health advice
- International Cat Care — cat health, behaviour and welfare advice