Breed Predispositions for Urolithiasis

Uroliths are a relatively common problem in cats and dogs with lower urinary tract disease. Understanding the prevalence of different types of uroliths, as well as breed and gender predilections, can help veterinarians make the best clinical decisions and recommendations when managing their patients.

This short report summarizes the key findings from data associated with all feline and canine urinary bladder calculi analyzed at the Canadian Veterinary Urolith Centre between February 1, 1998 and November 30 2014. Canine submissions represented 78.9% (75,674) and feline submissions 21.1% (20,183) of the 95,857 uroliths analyzed. Urolith composition was determined using quantitative analysis methodology. Significant findings are identified below, including the prevalence of different urolith types, trends in the proportion of each of those urolith types, and breed and gender predispositions (1,2).The study identified breeds at increased risk compared to a reference population rather than breed association with urolithiasis. 

Genetic mutations associated with canine cystine, urate and xanthine urolithiasis have been identified in several dog breeds, explaining some of the breed predispositions noted (3-5). A potential calcium oxalate susceptibility gene has been identified in Miniature Schnauzers, and similar genetic factors may account for calcium oxalate predispositions in other breeds (6). Genetic variants causing cystinuria in cats have recently been identified (7) and genetic determinants predisposing to other types of uroliths are suspected (but have not yet been identified) in this species; more research in this area is needed. [...]