Controversies surrounding protein in feline nutrition
Cats have obligatory dietary requirements for nutrients that are not essential for many other species including specific amino acids (carnitine, arginine, taurine) and some vitamins (niacin, A, and D). They also have a higher maintenance requirement for protein than omnivores. Dietary protein is required to provide essential, non disposable amino acids (those that the body cannot synthesize on its own), as well as “disposable” nitrogen to build those amino acids and other nitrogen-containing compounds that it is able to synthesize.
Source: Advances in Small Animal Medicine and Surgery - Category: Veterinary Research Authors: Margie Scherk Tags: Guest Editorial Source Type: research