Analysis of uroliths from cats and dogs in New Zealand, 1993-96

Aims. Canine and feline uroliths were analysed to determine the prevalence of particular types of urolith and the dog breeds at risk. Methods. Three hundred and sixty-nine uroliths recovered from 316 dogs and 53 cats between November 1993 and December 1996 were analysed by X-ray diff raction, and by infrared spectrometry where X-ray diffraction alone was non -diagnostic. Results. Bitches of small breeds especially Welsh corgi and Bichon frise, w ere most frequently affected. Struvite was the most common urolith (204 dog s). Oxalate (60 dogs) was the second most prevalent urolith identified, fol lowed by cystine (24 dogs). The breeds producing cystine calculi were: Dalm atian, Bassett hound, Borzoi, Newfoundland, Shetland sheepdog, Labrador, Ch ihuahua, Fox terrier, English bulldog, Bichon frise, Doberman pinscher, Bor der collie. Silica uroliths were identified for the first time in New Zeala nd. All feline uroliths were struvite. Conclusion. The results are useful in determining the prevalence of specifi c types of urolith in New Zealand and the breeds at risk of forming them.