Like people, dogs and cats can develop a wide variety of health conditions. Any pet can get sick, but some cat and dog breeds are more likely than others to suffer from certain diseases or conditions because of their genetic makeup. Mixed-breed pets are also at risk for breed-related health conditions, but their risk is less predictable since they have genes from different breeds. Recognizing the risk of breed-specific health problems in dogs and cats can help you and your veterinarian detect issues earlier, ensuring your furry pal enjoys the best possible quality of life.
Our UrgentVet team shares common cat and dog health issues that could affect your pet.
8 Common Cat And Dog Breed Health Problems
1. Hip dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is most common in large breed dogs, including German shepherds and retrievers, but it also occurs in some smaller breeds, such as French bulldogs. Dogs with hip dysplasia are born with malformed hip joints, which can lead to mobility issues, arthritis, and pain over time. Some dogs develop symptoms in puppyhood, while others don’t suffer from pain or dysfunction for several years. Treatments for hip dysplasia depend on its severity and may include medications, supplements, physical rehabilitation, exercise, weight control, and surgery.
Common Dog Breeds with Hip Dysplasia:
- German Shepherds
- Retrievers
- French Bulldogs
2. Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome
Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) affects short-nosed (i.e., brachycephalic) breeds, such as pugs, bulldogs, and Persian cats, causing breathing difficulties. Affected pets may have small nostrils (i.e., stenotic nares), narrow airways, an elongated soft palate, and excess tissue crowding the throat (i.e., everted laryngeal saccules). Severely affected pets may need surgery to avoid serious respiratory distress. In contrast, others may be treated with weight control and careful exercise restriction, and by avoiding excessive heat.
Most Common Cat and Dog Breeds with BOAS:
- Pugs
- Bulldogs
- Persian cats
3. Progressive retinal atrophy (Eye Disease)
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) is a group of genetic, breed-related health conditions leading to eventual blindness. Many breeds can develop PRA, including poodles and Labrador retrievers. The disease targets the light-detecting cells in the retina, causing a gradual loss of vision over months to years. PRA is not treatable, but it isn’t painful, and blind pets can adapt well with support from their families.
Most Common Dog Breeds with Eye Disease (PRA):
- Poodles
- Labrador retrievers
4. Heart diseases
Several heart diseases occur frequently in certain breeds, including hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) in Maine coon cats, dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in golden retrievers and Doberman pinschers, and mitral valve disease in Cavalier King Charles spaniels and dachshunds. Pets with heart disease may eventually experience heart failure or sudden death, although routine screenings for at-risk breeds can help with early detection. Treatment consists of medications to help the heart work better and slow disease progression.
Most Common Breeds with Heart Disease Issues:
- Golden retrievers
- Doberman pinschers
- Cavalier King Charles spaniel
- Dachshund
- Maine coon cats
5. Intervertebral disc disease
Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) is a degenerative, breed-related health condition that causes the cushioning discs between the vertebrae to break down. Inner disc material can squeeze out into the spinal column and irritate nerves or block nerve transmission entirely.
There are two types of IVDD:
- Type I usually affects short-legged, long-backed dogs (e.g., dachshunds, French bulldogs) and often comes on suddenly, sometimes leading to paralysis.
- Type II typically affects larger dogs and causes a slow degeneration over time, usually resulting in pain.
Treatments include pain medications, activity restriction, and surgery. Preventive measures include weight management and avoiding activities that strain the spine.
6. Polycystic kidney disease
Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is an inherited breed-related health condition affecting cats (e.g., Persian, exotic shorthair) and sometimes dogs. With PKD, fluid-filled cysts develop in the kidneys, often leading to kidney dysfunction or failure during early adulthood. Signs of kidney disease include increased drinking and urinating, weight loss, and nausea. Treatment typically involves a prescription diet, medications, and supplemental fluids.
Most Common Cat Breeds with PKD:
- Persian
- Exotic shorthair
7. Gastric dilatation-volvulus “Dog Bloat”
Gastric dilatation volvulus (GDV), or “bloat,” is a life-threatening condition where the stomach fills with gas and twists, starving the tissue of blood and oxygen. Deep-chested dog breeds, including German shepherds, Great Danes, and standard poodles, are prone to the condition. Signs include a bloated abdomen and frequent retching without bringing anything up. Dogs with GDV need emergency surgery. Preventive measures include feeding smaller, frequent meals, avoiding activity after eating, and surgery to tack the stomach in place.
Most Common Dog Breeds at Risk for Bloat (GDV):
- German shepherds
- Great Danes
- Standard poodles
8. Allergies
Allergic dermatitis is an inflammatory skin condition caused by allergies to environmental factors, parasites, or sometimes food. Many breeds are predisposed, including retrievers, bully breeds, and terriers. Symptoms include itching, redness, and skin or ear infections. Treatment includes identifying and avoiding allergens and controlling inflammation with medications.
Most Common Breeds Prone to Allergies:
- Retrievers
- Bully breeds
- Terriers
Need Veterinary Assistance? UrgentVet Understands Specific Cat & Dog Breed Health Problems
Responsible breeding can reduce the incidence of some breed-related health conditions, but eliminating them is difficult. UrgentVet recommends consulting with your primary veterinarian to proactively discuss health risks for your pet and determine the best way to prevent or manage health concerns. If your pet experiences an urgent health issue related to their breed, contact your nearest UrgentVet location—because your pet can’t wait to feel better.