Senin, 16 Maret 2009

Cystinuria

Some dog breeds, such as Chihuahua, Dalmatians, Dachshunds, Tibetan Spaniels, and Basset Hounds are genetically predisposed to formation of cystine crystals (crystals formed out of amino acid called cystine) in the urine which eventually lead to stone formations in kidneys and bladder. These stones can cause irritation and infection.

Signs of Cystinuria usually include blood in the urine, difficulty and pain in urinating, and small frequent amounts of urine. If a stone completely obstructs the urethra and thus blocks the outflow of urine (more common in male dogs) this may cause kidney failure - vomiting, depression, loss of appetite.

Treating of cystinuria requires individual approach and lifelong treatment. In most cases special diets and increased water intake are recommended along with medications and surgery to dissolute or remove stones.

Recent studies show that cystinuria may be #1 risk factor for developing taurine deficiency in dogs. A deficiency of taurine (taurine is a product of taurocholic acid involved in emulcification of fats and occurring in the bile) can cause blindness and heart disease. Low-quality commercial foods are usually deficient in taurine. 

Tidak ada komentar:

Posting Komentar