Pet Health

These Dog and Cat Breeds Hide Their Chronic Conditions * All Natural Pet Care

These Dog and Cat Breeds Hide Their Chronic Conditions * All Natural Pet Care


AUSTIN, Texas, Sept. 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — If your dog or cat could talk, they’d tell you when something hurts. Until then, it’s important for pet owners to keep an eye on any subtle changes in their dog or cat’s routine that might signal chronic health conditions.

“Chronic conditions don’t respect age or pedigree,” said Dr. Kelly Cairns, VP of Medical Excellence and Education at Thrive Pet Healthcare. “Any dog or cat can be affected, but some breeds carry a higher risk because of genetics, body shape or inherited traits.”

Thrive Pet Healthcare has compiled a list of five dog and five cat breeds that are at a higher risk of developing osteoarthritis, kidney disease or chronic itch. These lists are a starting point for conversations with your veterinarian.

Dog Breeds to Watch

Labrador Retriever – Chronic Itch + Osteoarthritis

(Image above) Big, athletic bodies stress hips and elbows over time; many Labs also have year-round skin allergies (licking, scratching, hot spots or repeat ear infections).

Golden Retriever – Chronic Itch + Osteoarthritis

Headshot of Golden Retriever

Similar joint wear to Labs from size and activity; common environmental allergies show up as red skin, paw chewing and ear problems.

German Shepherd – Chronic Itch + Osteoarthritis

Elbow, hip and back issues can slow walks and make stairs harder; skin allergies may look like face rubbing, red belly and head shaking.

Yorkshire Terrier – Chronic Itch + Kidney Disease

Delicate skin and tiny ear canals make itching and ear infections recur; Yorkie seniors may show signs of early kidney changes on routine bloodwork.

“Dogs and cats are great at hiding pain, especially from chronic diseases like osteoarthritis,” said Dr. Christine Jurek, Medical Director of Thrive Pet Healthcare partner TOPS Veterinary Rehabilitation in Grayslake, Illinois. “Keeping body condition lean, exercising in moderation, and regular screening at veterinary visits can help prevent disease or slow progression and keep pets healthy well into their senior years.”

Shih Tzu – Chronic Itch + Kidney Disease

Shih Tzu posing outside.

Skin folds trap moisture and irritants, feeding itch and ear trouble; some dogs are born with kidneys that don’t form normally.

French Bulldog – (Honorable Mention) Chronic Itch

“Chronic itch is one of the most common health problems facing French bulldogs, America’s most popular dog breed,” said Dr. Anthea Schick, Veterinary Dermatologist and Senior National Specialty Director of Dermatology at Thrive Pet Healthcare. “Itch often signals underlying allergic skin disease, which can significantly impact a dog’s comfort and quality of life. Fortunately, modern therapies now allow veterinarians to provide fast, lasting relief through safe, targeted treatments that block the itch at its source—helping pets and their families enjoy healthier, happier lives.”

Cat Breeds to Watch

Scottish Fold – Osteoarthritis + Kidney Disease

Grey Scottish Fold Cat

The ear-fold gene also affects cartilage in legs and tail, so painful arthritis can start young; kidney cysts or inherited changes have been reported in the breed.

Persian – Osteoarthritis + Kidney Disease

Persians and related cats are known for kidney cysts; heavier bodies and short legs can mean hip problems that can lead to arthritis.

Siamese – Chronic Itch (Often Food-Related) + Kidney Disease + Osteoarthritis

Food sensitivities can cause over-grooming and skin sores; listed in kidney-disease risk summaries; kneecap issues can set the stage for arthritis.

Abyssinian – Chronic Itch + Kidney Disease + Osteoarthritis

Over-represented in allergy cases with face and neck scratching; kidney disease has been linked to amyloid buildup in the kidneys; knee issues can progress to arthritis.

Maine Coon – Osteoarthritis + Kidney Disease

Orange Maine Coon posing.

Large frames stress hips; hip dysplasia is common; kidney cysts and chronic kidney disease are also reported.

“Whether you’ve got an Abyssinian, a Domestic Short Hair, or anything in between, chronic kidney disease doesn’t play favorites,” said Dr. Cairns. “This condition sneaks up on cats, often showing no signs until their kidneys have already lost significant function. That’s why routine diagnostic testing is more than a box to check. It can help us catch chronic kidney disease early and keep more cats living longer, healthier lives.”

What Pet Owners Can Do Today

Watch for change. Slower on stairs, stiff first steps, new hiding, missing the litter box or increased drinking and urination, scratching or licking that doesn’t stop.

Take short videos. Film your pet on the stairs or when they get up after resting. Share those clips with your veterinarian.

Schedule an exam. Ask about simple blood and urine tests for kidney screening, and a hands-on physical examination, including orthopedic evaluation.

Ask about relief. Treatment plans for itch, arthritis and kidney disease can include medications, dietary changes, home modifications, and rehabilitation exercises.

About Thrive Pet Healthcare:
Thrive Pet Healthcare is a leading veterinary service community that uniquely delivers a continuum of care to pet families and services to veterinary hospitals. With an industry-first membership program and over 360 acute, primary, and specialty providers, Thrive Pet Healthcare offers personalized, accessible care through every stage of a pet’s life and health. The veterinarian-founded organization provides premier benefits for practice staff while elevating privately held veterinary hospitals with innovative service and technology solutions. By focusing on the needs and aspirations of veterinary care providers, Thrive Pet Healthcare is supporting the well-being of the industry and raising the national bar for veterinary excellence. To learn more about Thrive Pet Healthcare, please visit www.thrivepetcare.com.

SOURCE: Thrive Pet Healthcare

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