Cystine Urolithiasis in Ferrets

Abstract

Urolithiasis in captive domestic ferrets has previously been predominantly struvite uroliths, although more recent laboratory submissions show a shift to predominantly cystine uroliths. Genetic mutations for cystinuria have been identified in dogs, and it is suspected that underlying genetic mutations are partly responsible for this disease in ferrets. Currently, surgery remains the only definitive treatment of cystine urolithiasis in ferrets, since dietary dissolution protocols have not been thoroughly explored. Despite this, medical management with dietary and urinary manipulation should be considered for use in ferrets postoperatively based on principles of cystine urolithiasis management in dogs adapted for ferrets.

Keywords: Cystine urolithiasis; Cystinuria; Ferrets; Mustela putorius furo.