Breed is critical in determining your pet’s appearance, temperament, behavior, and health. Many pet owners choose their pet based on breed or breed likeness. While inherited health conditions in cats and dogs are a significant concern for pet owners, our Peak City Veterinary Hospital team can detect and manage these conditions successfully. Learn about the breed-related conditions that may pose a risk to your four-legged friend’s health. 

Inherited conditions in dog breeds

If you believe your dog is one-of-a-kind, you are correct in many ways. However, their breed composition can predispose them to the following medical conditions:

  • Hip dysplasia — This genetic condition, commonly seen in large-dog breeds, such as German shepherd dogs, golden retrievers, and Labrador retrievers, is caused by a hip joint malformation. Dysplasia leads to arthritis and pain if left untreated. Early diagnosis and management through weight control, physical therapy, and sometimes surgery are essential to improving an affected dog’s quality of life.
  • Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) — PRA is a group of genetic diseases that causes the retina to deteriorate gradually, leading to blindness. The condition is prevalent in poodles, cocker spaniels, and Labrador retrievers. Regular eye exams are necessary for these breeds for early detection and management. Unfortunately, PRA is incurable.
  • Epilepsy — Recurrent seizures characterize this neurologic disorder. Epilepsy sometimes has a genetic component inherited in many breeds, including beagles, dachshunds, and border collies. While this condition is incurable, epilepsy can often be managed with medication prescribed by our Peak City Veterinary Hospital veterinarian and through lifestyle adjustments.
  • Heart disease — Certain breeds, such as Cavalier King Charles spaniels and boxers, are predisposed to inherited heart conditions, including mitral valve disease and cardiomyopathy. Regular veterinary exams and early intervention can help manage these heart conditions.
  • Brachycephalic syndrome — Brachycephalic breeds, such as bulldogs, pugs, and shih tzus, often have respiratory issues because of facial structure abnormalities. These issues include difficulty breathing, snoring, and a high heatstroke risk. Surgical interventions and weight management are common treatments.

Inherited conditions in cat breeds

Like dogs, cats, particularly purebreds, can inherit medical conditions. Depending on your whiskered pal’s breed, they may be prone to the following:

  • Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) — HCM is the most common heart disease in cats, particularly in Maine coon and ragdoll breeds. HCM causes heart muscle thickening, which can lead to heart failure over time. Regular cardiac screenings are recommended for these breeds to detect heart conditions early.
  • Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) — PKD is a genetic disorder primarily diagnosed in Persian and exotic shorthair cats. This disease can cause kidney cysts, which can eventually cause kidney failure. Genetic testing can identify affected cats early, and dietary management can help slow the disease’s progression.
  • PRA — In addition to affecting dogs, PRA affects cat breeds and leads to blindness. Breeds, including Abyssinian and Siamese, are susceptible to this inherited condition. Regular eye exams are crucial for early detection.
  • Feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD) — Certain breeds, such as the Siamese, Persian, and Himalayan, are susceptible to FLUTD, which includes various urinary problems. Signs include difficulty urinating, blood in the urine, and frequent urination. Dietary changes and increased water intake are common management strategies.
  • Deafness — Inherited deafness is common in white cats with blue eyes, caused by a genetic abnormality in the embryonic stem cells. Breeds, such as the Turkish Angora and the British shorthair, are often affected. Early detection and training adjustments can help manage cats with inherited deafness. 

Detecting genetic abnormalities in your pet

The positive news about inherited disorders in dog and cat breeds is that they can often be detected early and medically managed by our veterinary team throughout your pet’s life. For early detection, our team depends on the following methods:

  • Genetic testing — Knowing your pet’s deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) profile and propensity for certain conditions can be a powerful tool in early disease detection and veterinary intervention.
  • Health screening — Consistent wellness exams and screenings, including hip evaluations, eye exams, and cardiac assessments, are essential for detecting and managing a pet’s inherited conditions.
  • Education and awareness — Knowing your pet’s risk for developing inherited conditions and working closely with our team can lead to informed decisions about your furry pal’s care.

Your pet may be susceptible to specific health conditions but never develop them. Remember, each pet is an individual, despite their genetic propensity. You can help your furry pal remain healthy and happy by understanding their key genetic traits, providing optimal care through regular wellness exams, and providing them with a nutritious diet, adequate exercise, and a healthy lifestyle. Schedule an appointment with our Peak City Veterinary Hospital team to learn more about your pet’s breed and health.