Synthetic taurine is considered effective for use in cat diets, carnivorous dogs and fish (still under study). Recent studies indicate that the addition of 0,5% until 1% of Taurine in the diet fish with more soy protein and less fish protein, demonstrate, in general, survival rates between 94 e 99%, have higher average body weight, weight gain, Better TGC and daily growth rate compared to traditional diets.
Taurine is involved in several physiological processes, but is not considered an essential amino acid in most mammals, as it can be synthesized from cysteine. Cats are an exception, lacking an enzyme necessary for this conversion and a lack of taurine in the diet has been linked to central retinal degeneration and dilated cardiomyopathy.