Polycystic Kidney Disease in Cats: Welfare and Genetic Testing

Feline polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is one of the most common inherited diseases in cats, particularly Persian and related breeds, causing progressive kidney failure that is preventable through genetic testing of breeding animals.

Key Facts

PKD is caused by a single autosomal dominant mutation in the PKD1 gene
Prevalence in Persian cats was historically as high as 36-49% before DNA testing became widespread
Cysts develop from birth and progressively enlarge, replacing functional kidney tissue
Clinical signs typically develop in middle age (7-10 years) as kidney function declines
DNA testing allows definitive identification of carriers and affected cats, enabling eradication from breeding lines

Welfare Considerations

PKD causes progressive kidney failure identical in its welfare impact to non-hereditary chronic kidney disease: nausea, weight loss, weakness, and eventual uremic crisis. The significant difference from non-hereditary CKD is that PKD is entirely preventable through genetic testing and exclusion of affected and carrier cats from breeding. Continued production of PKD-affected kittens through untested breeding programmes represents preventable suffering. The Persian breeding community has made significant progress in reducing PKD prevalence through widespread adoption of DNA testing, demonstrating what is achievable through responsible breeding practice.

What You Can Do

Require PKD DNA test certificates for both parents before purchasing a Persian or related breed kitten
Support breed clubs that require negative PKD status for registration of breeding animals
Advocate for mandatory PKD testing in breed registration schemes for all Persian-related breeds
Spread awareness among Persian cat owners about the importance of PKD testing for breeding decisions