Taurine deficiency can cause eye problems and heart problems in pets. However, not many pet parents know that grain-free diets that contain lentils, legumes and sweet potatoes actually block the absorption of taurine, which can result in eye disease and heart disease including dilated cardiomyopathy which can be fatal. It is essential to feed your pet a diet high in taurine and other amino acids and omit grain-free alternatives like legumes, lentils and sweet potatoes.