Feline polycystic kidney disease is a common inherited condition in Persian and related breeds that progressively destroys kidney function and requires lifelong welfare management.
Persian cats with PKD experience progressive kidney function decline with welfare impacts of chronic kidney disease including nausea, reduced appetite, anaemia, and hypertension. The genetic nature of the disease means it was historically very prevalent in Persians before DNA testing became available. Responsible breeding using genetic testing to avoid PKD1 carrier matings has substantially reduced disease prevalence. Affected cats require the same lifelong management as CKD from other causes to maintain welfare.