April 12, 2018

Polycystic kidney disease is an inherited disorder in which small, closed, liquid-filled sacs develop in the tissue of the kidney. These sacs (cysts) tend to multiply in number and grow in size over time, eventually overwhelming normal kidney tissue and often leading to potentially fatal kidney failure.

A genetic cause has been identified with the abnormal (mutated) gene being ‘dominant’, meaning only one copy of the abnormal gene to be affected by the disease.

Polycystic Kidney Disease can be screened for with the use of abdominal ultrasound.

Polycystic kidney disease affects some cat breeds including but not limited to Persians, Shorthairs & Maine Coons and also occurs in some dog breeds including but not limited to Bull Terriers.

A genetic test has also become available for cats.

 

Nephritis is a type of kidney disease where the nephrons (filters) of the kidney are effected which can lead to decreased renal function, and in some cases is fatal.  There are some breeds where familial (genetic) links have been found.

Screening for loss of protein can be done by analysis of a urine sample.

 

Testing Requirements:

• A urine sample is taken from a conscious animal ideally via ultrasound guided cystocentesis to ensure we get as non contaminated sample as possible
• The age for first sample is as close as possible to first mating
• Then a sample must be taken annually while in a breeding programme.
• The protein: creatinine ratio needs to be no greater than 0.3

 

For bookings or further questions please don’t hesitate to contact us on 07 888 8197