While all pets can develop any number of medical issues, different dog and cat breeds are predisposed to certain health conditions because of their genetic makeup. Understanding these breed-related health issues is essential for providing your pet with the best possible care.

Common breed-related health conditions in dogs

Purebred dogs are notorious for developing a multitude of health conditions, with some breeds prone to more than one medical problem. Listed below are some of the most popular dog breeds and one of the top health issues they can develop.

Labrador retrievers

Labradors are prone to hip dysplasia, a condition that occurs when the hip joint doesn’t develop properly, leading to arthritis and mobility issues. While hip dysplasia problems are more commonly observed in older Labs, they can manifest at any age, impacting their quality of life. Pet owners should be vigilant for signs of discomfort, such as limping, reluctance to move, or difficulty navigating stairs and furniture.

German shepherds

German shepherds are susceptible to degenerative myelopathy, a progressive spinal cord disease that ultimately results in paralysis. This debilitating condition typically begins as weakness in the hind legs and gradually advances to affect the entire body. While degenerative myelopathy has no cure, early detection and supportive care can help improve the dog’s quality of life and slow disease progression. German shepherds are also at increased risk for hip dysplasia.

Bulldogs

French and English bulldogs are prone to brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) because of their flattened facial structure. BOAS encompasses various respiratory issues, including narrowed airways, elongated soft palate, and stenotic nares, that cause breathing difficulties and heat intolerance. Bulldog owners should be vigilant for respiratory distress signs, such as noisy breathing or excessive panting. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to alleviate breathing problems and improve the dog’s quality of life.

Golden retrievers

Golden retrievers are predisposed to cancer, particularly hemangiosarcoma and lymphoma. Hemangiosarcoma is a cancer of the blood vessels that often affects the spleen, liver, and heart, while lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphatic system. Early detection through regular veterinary screenings is crucial for optimizing treatment outcomes and providing the best possible care for Golden retrievers diagnosed with cancer. 

Pugs

Pugs are susceptible to various eye problems, including corneal ulcers and dry eye syndrome. Their prominent eyes are prone to injury and irritation, which increases the risk of corneal ulcers that can be painful and lead to vision loss if left untreated. Dry eye syndrome, or keratoconjunctivitis sicca, occurs when the eyes fail to produce an adequate amount of tears, resulting in discomfort and potential corneal damage. Pet owners should seek prompt veterinary attention for any signs of eye irritation or discharge.

Common breed-related health conditions in cats

Although purebred cats are not as common as purebred dogs, they come with their own host of health issues. Outlined below are some common cat breeds and their health issues.

Persians

Persians are predisposed to polycystic kidney disease (PKD), a hereditary condition characterized by the formation of fluid-filled cysts in the kidneys. As the cysts grow, they interfere with kidney function and ultimately renal failure occurs. While PKD cannot be cured, early detection through regular veterinary screenings can help delay disease progression and prolong the cat’s life. 

Siamese cats

Siamese cats are prone to respiratory issues such as asthma, a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the airways and causes coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. Environmental triggers, such as dust, pollen, and cigarette smoke, can exacerbate asthma symptoms in Siamese cats and diligent management and avoidance measures are required. 

Maine coons

Maine coons are predisposed to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), a condition characterized by the thickening of the heart muscle. HCM can impair cardiac function and lead to heart failure, arrhythmias, and sudden death. While HCM cannot be cured, early detection through routine cardiac screenings is essential so that appropriate management strategies can be implemented to optimize the cat’s quality of life. Pet owners should be vigilant for heart disease signs, such as lethargy, difficulty breathing, and fainting.

Scottish folds

Scottish folds are prone to osteochondrodysplasia, a genetic skeletal disorder that affects bone development and can result in abnormal bone growth and joint deformities that lead to arthritis, mobility issues, and chronic pain. Pet owners should prioritize their cat’s joint health with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and appropriate supplements to support bone and cartilage health. Additionally, minimizing stress and avoiding activities that place excessive strain on the joints can help alleviate discomfort.

By staying informed and proactive, pet owners can provide their furry companions with the best possible care, ensuring they live long, healthy, and happy lives. Give our Southern Kern Veterinary Clinic team a call to discuss your purebred pet’s potential health risks.