Best High Quality Cat Foods with Taurine

When choosing the best cat food for their pets, many owners carefully study the nutritional info. However, many ingredients are obscure substances for ordinary people. Taurine is one of them.

You may probably know that cats are carnivores, therefore, they need protein to stay healthy and full of energy. Amino acids are the building blocks of protein, and essential amino acids are the acids that aren’t synthesized in the body. Taurine is an essential amino acid that must be present in a cat’s diet.

To help you understand what taurine is, how it affects the health of a pet, what taurine sources are, and how much taurine cats need, we have created this guide. Keep reading to learn about this essential amino acid and the best cat food with taurine to choose for your furry friend.

What Is Taurine?

Taurine is an essential amino acid that is involved in providing the proper functioning of various body systems, including vision, hearing, digestion, and intrauterine development of the fetus. Some mammals synthesize taurine from other amino acids, but cats do not have this ability, therefore, they get taurine from cat food or special supplements.

Why is Taurine Important for Cats?

Why do cats need taurine? Taurine plays an important role in many processes of the animal’s body:

• Participates in the formation of bile and its constituents, contributing to the breakdown and digestion of healthy fats.
• Strengthens blood vessels, contributes to the normalization of the peripheral nervous system, brain, and heart.
• Supports the cat’s immune system and digestive system at any cat’s life stage.
• Promotes blood sugar regulation, and prevents the development of diabetes.
• Participates in the development and functioning of retinal cells. A sufficient amount of taurine ensures long-term preservation of sharp vision in cats and helps prevent retinal atrophy.
• It has a beneficial effect on the coat quality.

Taurine Deficiency in Cats: Causes and Symptoms

In nature, the source of taurine for cats is raw cat food. Taurine deficiency is observed in cats who eat cat food of poor quality or homemade cat food with low meat content. Taurine deficiency cannot be detected immediately, the cat starts showing symptoms only after a while.

Taurine deficiency can cause severe health problems; the symptoms are the following:

• Feline central retinal degeneration with subsequent blindness.
• Weakened immune system.
• Dilated cardiomyopathy, which can lead to heart failure.
• Digestive problems.
• Tooth decay.
• Birth defects in kittens: low weight and delayed development.
• Decreased reproductive performance.

The Source of Taurine for Cats

There are three main sources of taurine. Below we will consider each of them in detail.

Commercial Cat Food

Many commercial cat foods feature taurine. Choose an option that offers the best nutritional value and is packed with all the necessary vitamins and minerals your cat needs. There are wet foods for kittens and adult cats with adequate taurine levels and dry cat food with fresh chicken, fresh tuna, and fresh fruits for balanced feline nutrition.

If possible, buy several cat foods with different taurine levels to keep a taurine deficiency at a bay. On top of that, recheck the taurine level regularly if a cat’s diet contains many grains.

Commercial Supplements

Taurine supplements come in various forms: paste, powder, or granules. In addition, taurine supplements often contain valuable vitamins and minerals as well. If you are feeding your cat homemade cat food, then your cat needs extra taurine. Consult your veterinarian to prescribe the correct dose of the taurine supplement.

Typically, the dosage of taurine is 250-500 mg 2-3 times a day. If you choose a food with a sufficient percentage of taurine (0.2-0.3%), then consult your veterinarian to know for sure if more taurine is needed.

Others

Excellent sources of taurine include seafood (shrimp, shellfish), meat, dairy products, and eggs. Be sure to add these foods to your pet’s diet. If these foods aren’t incorporated into the diet, always give cats taurine supplements to avoid health problems caused by taurine deficiency.

Top 10 Foods Highest in Taurine

So, you know what taurine is, why it is important, and how to spot taurine deficiency. Thus, you are ready for shopping. Check out the list of the top 10 foods highest in taurine for cats to make your choice.

Blue Buffalo Sensitive Stomach Chicken Recipe – Best Cat Food with Taurine

Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Oatmeal, Barley, Pea Protein, Peas, Chicken Fat (Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols), Dried Egg Product, Natural Flavor, Flaxseed (Source Of Omega 6 Fatty Acids), Pea Fiber, Menhaden Fish Meal, Fish Oil (Source Of Omega 3 Fatty Acids), DL-Methionine, Calcium Sulfate.

Find on: Amazon, Chewy

If you are looking for cat food with adequate taurine content that has been designed with kitten’s digestive health in mind, then Blue Buffalo Sensitive Stomach Chicken Recipe is the way to go.

The main ingredient is chicken – one of the food sources of taurine and animal based protein that contributes to healthy muscles. Besides, this food is enhanced with the necessary vitamins, minerals, probiotics, FOS prebiotics, and digestive enzymes.

On top of that, whole-grain carbohydrates (oatmeal, brown rice) support a cat’s digestive health.

Wellness Complete Health Pate Chicken Entrée Wet Food

Ingredients: Fresh Chicken, Chicken Liver, Turkey, Chicken Broth, Carrots, Natural Flavor, Guar Gum, Cranberries, Ground Flaxseed, Potassium Chloride, Taurine

Find on: Amazon, Chewy

A rich formula of the best affordable wet cat food is designed to support various systems of your cat’s body and give the energy to fuel his adventures.

It contains protein for healthy and strong muscles, omega fatty acids for shiny fur and healthy skin, and antioxidants for a strong immune system. Besides, it is grain-free, therefore, it is easily digested.

We recommend this canned cat food because it features vegetables and fresh fruits that are the main sources of all the necessary vitamins and minerals, and it is supplemented with taurine.

The Honest Kitchen Grain-Free Chicken Recipe Dehydrated Food

Ingredients: Dehydrated Chicken, Dehydrated Eggs, Dehydrated Potatoes, Dehydrated Sweet Potatoes, Organic Flaxseed, Dehydrated Pumpkin, Dehydrated Spinach, Dried Cranberries

Find on: Amazon, Chewy

This taurine cat food is packed with chicken and spinach that should be dehydrated for maximum digestion. The Honest Kitchen Grain-Free Chicken Recipe provides balanced nutrition (39% protein, 28% fat, and 2.5% fiber) for adult cats and senior cats of all breeds and sizes.

This recipe has 70% free-range chicken (a source of taurine and protein) and provides your furry pal with everything he needs to live healthy and happy. Besides, it is rich in various vitamins and minerals that come in the form of fruits and vegetables.

This food is safe and healthy for your feline because it doesn’t contain grains, GMO ingredients, and low-quality fillers.

Crave Grain Free Recipe

Ingredients: Salmon, Chicken Meal, Pea Protein, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Split Peas, Tapioca, Potato Protein, Dried Plain Beet Pulp

Find on: Amazon, Chewy

This cat food features real salmon as the main ingredient that gives your cat the necessary strength and energy he needs. This food contains 40% protein, therefore, it is a win-win option for overweight or active cats.

This adult cat food is packed with all the necessary vitamins and minerals that make up a balanced diet and aid in muscle development, healthy digestion, heart and eye health, and a strong immune system.

On top of that, it skips out on grains, corn, and soy, therefore, this is a perfect pick for cats who are prone to allergies.

American Journey Turkey & Chicken Recipe Dry Food

Ingredients: Deboned Turkey, Turkey Meal, Chicken Meal, Tapioca Starch, Dried Egg Product, Pea Protein, Peas, Deboned Chicken, Natural Flavor, Menhaden Fish Meal, Chicken Fat (Preserved with Mixed Tocopherols)

Find on: Chewy

American Journey Turkey and Chicken Recipe Grain-Free Dry Cat Food has been created to fuel your cat with the energy he needs. This food ensures a balanced diet because it features real turkey as the first ingredient, deboned chicken, wholesome vegetables, and fruit.

The protein content is 40%, therefore, the muscles are strong and healthy, and other essential nutrients, essential amino acids make sure the heart, eyes, skin, and coat are in a good condition. Besides, this food is grain-free, so if your cat suffers from an allergy, this food won’t disappoint him.

If you are looking for a healthy diet for your feline but don’t want to spend a fortune, then this dry cat food is a great compromise.

Blue Buffalo Healthy Aging

Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Barley, Oatmeal, Pea Protein, Peas, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Menhaden Fish Meal (source of Omega 3 Fatty Acids)

Find on: Amazon, Chewy

This cat food is perfect for your senior kitty because it helps your cat maintain an active and youthful lifestyle. Thanks to a healthy dose of an essential nutrient, the cat’s eyes, brain, and heart function well.

Blue Buffalo features a blend of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants known as LifeSource Bits to support feline’s overall well-being and immune system.

On top of that, this food with a rich formula is free of wheat, soy, corn, and by-products so that it is a perfect choice for cats with allergies.

Halo Holistic Wild Salmon & Whitefish Recipe Dry Food

Ingredients: Salmon, Whitefish, Dried Egg Product, Dried Peas, Oatmeal, Soy Protein Concentrate, Pearled Barley, Chicken Fat (Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols)

Find on: Amazon, Chewy

This Halo Holistic Wild Salmon & Whitefish Recipe Dry Food with a crunchy texture is a win-win option for your cats. The pack has premium-quality ingredients that support overall health.

This best cat food with taurine is rich in protein (fresh salmon and whitefish), highly digestible whole-grain carbohydrates, and omega fatty acids.

All the essential minerals make sure your furry friend feels and looks his best.

Blue Buffalo Wilderness Rocky Mountain Recipe with Rabbit Grain-Free Dry Cat Food

Ingredients: Rabbit, Fish Meal, Pea Protein, Peas, Tapioca Starch, Canola Oil (Source Of Omega 3 Fatty Acids), Dried Egg Product, Pea Fiber, Potatoes, Beef Meal, Flaxseed (Source Of Omega 6 Fatty Acids)
Find on: Amazon, Chewy

This cat food with rabbit contains zero grains or by-products, so it is completely safe for your feline. Thanks to protein in its formula, your cat has strong muscles and stays active all year round.

Probiotics ensure your feline has a happy tummy, well-balanced calories maintain a healthy weight, a blend of antioxidants and vitamins LifeSource Bits plus omegas keep your cat healthy.

On top of that, this food is loaded with taurine, therefore, the heart and eyes function well.

Sheba Perfect Portions Wet Cat Food with Taurine

Ingredients: Chicken, Water, White Fish, Poultry Liver, Chicken Broth, Guar Gum, Potassium Chloride, Sodium Tripolyphosphate, Fish Oil

Find on: Amazon, Chewy

The best cat canned food is crafted with premium ingredients, essential vitamins, and minerals.

All the necessary nutrients maintain the cat’s health, whereas plenty of taurine supports the feline’s eyes and heart.

Due to the absence of various allergens, this wet cat food with taurine is the way to go for cats who suffer from allergies.

Purina Tender Selects

Ingredients: Salmon, Rice Flour, Corn Gluten Meal, Chicken By-Product Meal, Beef Fat Naturally Preserved With Mixed-Tocopherols, Soybean Meal

Find on: Amazon, Chewy

If you are looking for a purr-fect combination of a vet-recommended formula and a reasonable price, then look no further, this no-filler food is your ultimate choice.

Packed with the essential vitamins, minerals, omega-6 fatty acids, protein, and taurine, this food keeps your feline healthy and happy.

Kibbles with a crunchy texture and nice smell make sure your cat gets pleasure with every single bite.

What To Look For In A Cat Food With Taurine

If you want to find the best food for your cat, make sure it meets the following criteria.

Taurine Content

What percentage of taurine should be in cat food? Look for cat foods with 0.2%-0.3% of taurine. We don’t recommend going lower than 0.2% because this food won’t improve your cat’s eye and heart health.

Other Perks of the Food

Many foods offer extra benefits for felines, that is why always pick the food, keeping in mind your cat’s needs. If your kitty is allergic, has a sensitive stomach, experiences urinary problems, or has a dull coat, go for the food that solves these specific needs. Pay attention to the titles you see on the pack, for instance, “grain-free”, “indoor cats”, “sensitive stomach”, etc.

Customer Reviews

When it comes to food quality, the only indicator is if the cat likes the food and if it solves his specific problems. Pet owner reviews are a gold mine of valuable information because they reflect reality. Even if the food is fortified with all the vitamins and minerals, it may have certain side effects that cat owners will tell you about. When choosing the best cat food with taurine, be sure to look at the rating of the cat food – do not choose a product rated by buyers below 4 stars on Amazon or Chewy.

Price

If you are looking for the best value for money, stick to $2-$3 per pound or serving range for a cat. You can go for wet cat foods, dry cat food with high taurine content, canned cat food with taurine according to your cat’s age and needs. Don’t repeat the mistake of many pet owners – don’t buy cheap cat food because often this cat food is not only unhealthy but even harmful to the cat’s body.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have read all the information below, but there are some questions left, check out this FAQ section.

How much taurine do cats need?

There is no clearly defined amount of taurine required for cats. Many manufacturers do not indicate the taurine content. In this case, we advise you to choose a food that meets the AAFCO requirements. You can be sure that this food will prevent taurine deficiency. How much taurine does a cat need per day? A cat fed semi-purified food only has to consume at least 10 mg taurine each day. 

What foods are high in taurine for cats?

Taurine is found only in animal-based proteins. The foods that are high in protein should include seafood, dark meat, organ meats.

Can you give a cat too much taurine?

There is no evidence that high levels of taurine lead to toxicity. You can feed your cat commercial food and give taurine supplements to eliminate a lack of this essential amino acid.

How do you treat taurine deficiency in cats?

If your cat shows various signs of a lack of taurine (dilated cardiomyopathy, digestive issues, tooth decay, weakness), then start treatment asap. Taurine deficiency treatment encompasses several steps. First of all, it is necessary to eliminate the main symptoms, for example, vision problems or cardiovascular system issues.

The next step is a regular taurine intake: you can switch to foods that are high in taurine, add taurine and bile salts supplements to your cat’s raw food diets, or diversify your cat’s diet with natural sources of taurine for cats. Always consult your veterinarian and never treat a cat without professional assistance.

How do I add taurine to my cat’s diet?

Taurine is obtained by cats via raw meat, with muscle meats (particularly the heart). As a result, the best method for them to get taurine naturally is to eat raw meats.

Do all cat foods have taurine?

What cat food contains taurine? Taurine levels vary, but meals with a higher proportion of animal protein are likely to contain more taurine levels than those having plant-based proteins. If you’re wondering how much taurine should be in cat food, the AAFCO recommends 0.10% in dry cat food and 0.20% in wet food.

Does tuna contain taurine?

Tuna is a great source of taurine. When it comes to fish, darker meat has more amino acids than white meat.

Bottom Line

We’ve rounded up the best cat foods high in taurine for cats, and it is up to you which option to choose. Our ultimate choice is Blue Buffalo Wilderness Rocky Mountain Recipe with Rabbit Grain-Free Dry Cat Food because it is free of by-products, packed with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and probiotics so that owners of cats with allergies or digestive problems can incorporate it into the cat diets.