Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is a common inherited condition in Persians and related breeds, and genetic testing enables responsible breeding to reduce prevalence.
PKD causes progressive kidney failure with associated chronic welfare compromise through nausea, weight loss, and ill-thirst. The condition is entirely predictable through genetic testing — no breeder has an excuse for producing PKD-positive kittens from untested parents. The welfare burden of kidney failure, with its associated management requirements, is substantial and extends over years of the affected cat's life. Testing costs are modest relative to the welfare impact of prevention.