The Significance of Tyrosine Crystals in the Urine of Dogs and Cats

Tyrosine crystals are one among many types of crystal formations that can occur in canine or feline urine. Small amounts of crystals in urine are common, but tyrosine crystals are rare and can be dangerous to your pet's health.

Definition

Tyrosine is a white crystalline amino acid. Tyrosine crystals that appear in canine or feline urine are small deposits that may impede the animal's ability to urinate normally.

Symptoms

Animals with tyrosine crystals in their urine may have trouble urinating and feel the need to urinate frequently. Blood in the urine and excessive thirst are also symptoms.

Test

A pH dipstick is submerged briefly in the animal's urine to measure the acidity levels. To further examine the urine, a veterinarian must view a urine sample under the microscope to determine if tyrosine crystals are present.

Significance

The presence of tyrosine crystals in cat or dog urine could indicate severe liver problems that will need to be closely monitored by your veterinarian.

Prevention/Solution

Animals with tyrosine crystals in their urine must adhere to a strict diet that usually consists of a veterinarian-prescribed dry food; they may also be prescribed medication to maintain pH levels.

References

• Urine Sediment Atlas
• The Urinanalysis
• Crystalluria