CE: Today we're going to talk about a really hot topic, DCM, in dogs. Can you start by explaining to me what exactly is DCM? TT: DCM is dilated .
How do you prevent taurine deficiency in dogs?
In some dogs, lifetime taurine supplementation may be required to prevent recurrent taurine deficiency. For other dogs, a diet change may be needed in addition to taurine supplementation, and if symptoms resolve, supplementation may be discontinued.
Can dilated cardiomyopathy in dogs be reversed?
Dilated cardiomyopathy is rarely reversible, and patients that have it usually have it for life. A rare exception is taurine deficiency, which is a lack of whole-body stores of the amino acid taurine.
Can taurine reverse cardiomyopathy in dogs?
The good news is that DCM secondary to taurine deficiency has a very good long-term prognosis. Taurine supplementation often reverses the heart muscle abnormalities, and many dogs can be completely weaned off heart medications.
Can taurine help DCM?
Even better, quality of life for dogs affected with DCM can improve once meat-based proteins high in taurine are added to their diet. Improvements were seen in dogs with DCM in as early as one month's time. So remember, meat is good for your dog (they're carnivores after all).
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