Muscular dystrophies and other inherited myopathies

Inherited muscle diseases in dogs and cats are relatively uncommon and may be difficult to diagnose. Obtaining an accurate diagnosis, in most cases by evaluation of appropriately processed muscle biopsy specimens, is of utmost importance not only to animal breeders but to pet owners as well. These diseases most often occur in purebred animals, and knowledge of inheritance patterns is important in the development of genetic tests for carriers. Availability of therapy and long-term prognosis also differ for the various muscle diseases.