What are the essential amino acids for cats?

The essential amino acids for cats include arginine and taurine, making the selection of this answer accurate due to their critical physiological roles.

Arginine is vital for cats because they lack the necessary enzymes to synthesize it adequately. It plays a crucial role in the urea cycle, helping to eliminate ammonia from the body. A deficiency in arginine can lead to severe consequences, including neurological issues and even death, highlighting its importance in a cat's diet.

Taurine is another essential amino acid specifically critical for cats, as they cannot synthesize it in sufficient amounts from other precursors. Taurine is important for proper cardiac function, vision, and reproductive health. A deficiency in taurine can lead to dilated cardiomyopathy, retinal degeneration, and reproductive failure.

This understanding underscores the necessity of both arginine and taurine in a felid's nutritional profile, which differs significantly from that of many other animals. Failing to provide these amino acids in a cat's diet can lead to serious health issues, thus emphasizing their essential status.