Help! Should I Be Adding Taurine to My Cat’s Food?! (Vet Answered)
This question has been answered by a vet
Veterinarian & Animal Behaviorist
With nearly two decades in veterinary medicine, Dr. Paola brings hands-on experience across multiple species. A graduate of the University of Guadalajara, she specializes in preventive care, animal welfare, and positive reinforcement training.
The Question
“Hi Dr. Paola,
Avishai is a Maine Coon, and we add taurine to his food. What are your thoughts about this? He is just over a year old and healthy. We have him on Royal Canin wet and dry kitten formula, and being a Maine Coon and a slow grower, we plan on keeping him on it for 15 or 16 months old. Thank you for your advice. “
– Denny
Quick Info about Avishai
Hello Denny,
Avishai sounds like he is doing very well, and your approach to his nutrition is thoughtful and appropriate. Maine Coon cats mature more slowly than many other breeds, so continuing a growth-support diet a bit longer aligns nicely with their natural development.
Taurine is essential for cats, particularly for the heart, eyes, and reproductive health, but when a diet is already complete and balanced, it provides exactly what their bodies need. Any extra taurine that exceeds his requirements is not stored in large amounts; instead, it is processed and excreted primarily through urine. Because of this, adding more does not translate into additional health benefits in a healthy cat, and it is generally unnecessary unless there is a specific medical indication. That said, there is no harm to having too much, other than to your wallet.
Your current approach with a mix of wet and dry food supports both hydration and energy needs very nicely. As you continue to optimize his diet, you could consider a properly formulated fresh diet labeled for all life stages, as these can offer highly digestible nutrients when balanced correctly. The most important thing is maintaining that nutritional balance so his steady, slow growth continues in a healthy and sustainable way.
Best,
– Dr. Paola