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Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) is a well-documented abnormality in domestic cats. Cystic kidneys can sporadically occur in any population of cats. The heritable form of PKD1 may not have initially occurred in Persians as a new mutation, but perhaps in random bred cats. Unfortunately, PKD1 does not have a strong clinical presentation. The presentation of PKD1 is similar to one of the most common causes of death for any cat, renal failure. Thus, PKD1 has gone unnoticed for many years and has spread throughout the Persian breed. PKD in cats is an autosomal dominant condition affecting approximately 36% of Persian cats. Any breed that has used Persians in their foundation or propagation should have concerns for PKD1. PKD mutations have been found in many cat breeds including Persians, Exotics, Himalayans, British Shorthairs, American Shorthairs, Ragdolls, as well as Persian first generation out-crosses.
DNA Test:
The DNA test can be performed on cats of any age, so long as you can obtain a reliable sample. Your report certificate will state whether your cat is “Normal” of the mutation or that it is “Affected”, and therefore does, or will develop PKD. |
