Modern Cats: Why They No Longer Hunt Rats?
Cats have historically eaten mice, primarily because these rodents are rich in taurine, an essential nutrient that wasn't easily accessible in the wild. With no cat food or treats available, cats relied on mice to supplement their taurine intake. This is why they have a natural instinct to catch and eat these creatures. However, in today's society, most cat foods are fortified with taurine, significantly reducing the cats' need for this nutrient from their diet.
What is the Role of Taurine in Cats?
1. Vision: Taurine is a crucial amino acid for cats. A deficiency can lead to the degeneration of the retina, potentially resulting in blindness if not addressed.
2. Growth and Development: Young kittens, pregnant or lactating cats, especially benefit from taurine. It enhances their reproductive capabilities, reduces the risk of miscarriage, ensures healthy growth rates in kittens, and prevents deformities. Studies have shown that cats with dilated cardiomyopathy often have lower levels of taurine in their hearts, suggesting that supplementation can protect heart function. Researchers like Gelder have found that cats with epilepsy often have lower levels of taurine in their brains, and taurine injections can reduce the incidence of seizures. Clinically, taurine has been shown to have anticonvulsant and antiepileptic effects, as well as a suppressive effect on neurons.
3. Immunity: Taurine is abundant in the lymphocytes of cats. A lack of it can weaken their immune system.
Cats lack the enzyme system necessary to synthesize sufficient taurine from cysteine, so they must obtain it from their diet. Along with taurineenriched cat food, sources like fish, shellfish, shrimp, and the organs of mammals, such as liver, heart, and brain, are rich in taurine.
