Managing PKD in cats — a hereditary kidney disease affecting Persian breeds with lifelong welfare implications.
PKD causes progressive welfare impairment through renal cyst growth and eventual kidney failure. Kittens are born with microscopically small cysts that enlarge throughout life. Most cats do not develop clinical signs until middle age (7-10 years), when cyst burden is sufficient to compromise renal function. The clinical presentation and welfare trajectory then mirrors that of chronic kidney disease from any cause.
The welfare of PKD is insidious — years of subclinical cyst growth occur before clinical signs indicate renal insufficiency. By the time azotaemia develops, significant renal reserve has been lost. Managing the condition proactively — through regular screening (ultrasound from 10 months of age) and early implementation of renal protective measures — extends the period of good quality life.
DNA testing has transformed PKD from a disease affecting the majority of Persian breeds to one that can be eliminated through responsible breeding decisions. Testing both parents and breeding only PKD-negative cats produces PKD-free kittens. Widespread adoption of DNA testing by Persian breeders has significantly reduced prevalence in tested populations.