What is cystinuria?
Cystinuria is a hereditary metabolic disorder that occurs in some dog breeds. Too much cystine is excreted in the urine because the kidneys cannot absorb it properly. Cystine is not easily soluble in water and can therefore form crystals or stones in the bladder. These can lead to urinary tract infections, pain, blood in the urine or even urinary retention. Cystine stones often have to be surgically removed.
Cystinuria mainly occurs in breeds such as Dachshunds, Bassets, Munsterlanders, Irish Terriers, Bull Mastiffs, English Bulldogs, Chihuahuas, Scottish Terriers and Newfoundlands. Adult male dogs aged 3 to 5 years are usually affected.
How is cystinuria diagnosed?
If you suspect that your dog is suffering from cystinuria, you should have him examined by a vet. The vet will carry out a general examination and take an ultrasound and X-ray of the bladder. He will also take a urine sample and determine the kidney values in the blood. If cystine crystals or stones are found, they will be sent to a laboratory for analysis. There, the exact composition of the stones will be determined in order to plan further treatment and prevention.
How is cystinuria treated?
The treatment of cystinuria depends on the severity of the disease. In some cases, it is sufficient to adjust the diet and change the urine pH value. In other cases, surgery is required to remove the stones.
Change of diet
A change in diet can help to prevent or reduce the formation of cystine crystals or stones. You should keep the following points in mind:
- Avoid cysteine-rich foods such as eggs, soy products, nuts and seeds as well as large amounts of meat.
- Make sure your dog gets enough protein and sodium.
- Set the urine pH value in the alkaline range (pH value > 7.3). You can achieve this by feeding potassium-rich foods such as potatoes, sweet potatoes, carrots, pumpkin, parsnips and celeriac.
- Check your dog's urine pH regularly with test strips or at the vet.
- Feed small portions several times a day instead of one large meal.
Operation
If the change in diet is not enough or if your dog has severe symptoms, an operation may be necessary. This involves removing the stones from the bladder. The operation is usually successful and has few complications. However, new stones may form again after the operation if the cause is not remedied.
How can cystinuria be prevented?
To reduce the risk of cystinuria or prevent a recurrence, you should take the following measures:
- Increase your dog's water intake. This dilutes the urine and flushes the bladder. You can flavor the water with tuna water, cream, milk or yogurt to make it more appealing to your dog. However, change the water regularly.
- Let your dog urinate frequently. This prevents the crystals from compacting into stones. Offer him a walk, especially before bedtime.
- Have your dog checked regularly by the vet. This helps to detect and treat cystinuria at an early stage.
- Avoid breeding with dogs that have cystinuria or are carriers. This prevents the disease from being passed on.