Drinking more water than usual, frequent urination, and weight loss are some of the signs of polycystic kidney disease, or PKD, in cats. PKD is a genetic condition passed from one generation to the next. It tends to affect flat-faced cats, such as Persians, far more than standard breeds. For cats diagnosed with PKD, supportive care can give them a solid quality of life. To learn more about polycystic kidney disease in cats, this guide explores the symptoms, treatments, and outcomes.
Understanding Polycystic Kidney Disease in Cats
Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is caused by small growths (or cysts) that form in a feline’s kidneys. Over time, these growths get so big that they lead to kidney failure. The disease is inherited and affects approximately six percent of the general cat population, according to Veterinary Sciences. The progression of the condition depends on the growth rate of the cysts, which differs between cats.
Identifying PKD in your feline friend is important because the earlier they receive treatment, the better their prognosis. Medication prescribed by your vet can slow the growth rate of the cysts and manage symptoms that would otherwise cause discomfort. If you have a flat-faced cat breed, such as a Himalayan or Scottish Fold, pay close attention to changes in their condition. Up to half of these breeds are diagnosed with PKD, so contact your vet if you notice constant urination and poor eating and drinking habits.
Symptoms of Kidney Disease in Cats?
Now that we know what polycystic kidney disease in cats is, identifying the symptoms can help you act quickly. The cysts associated with PKD will interfere with healthy kidney function, often resulting in chronic kidney disease or renal failure. Symptoms to look out for include poor appetite, increased thirst, constipation, fatigue, and sudden weight loss. Some cats will start urinating outside of their litter boxes. As the cysts develop, the signs of PKD become more obvious, and in the advanced stages, cats often experience pale gums, seizures, and strokes.
In some cases, kidney cysts have been detected in kittens of only a few weeks old. However, the symptoms of PKD usually appear in older cats once the disease has already progressed. If you suspect that your cat has PKD, only a veterinary examination can confirm the diagnosis. Depending on the rate at which the cysts grow, most cats can live pretty normal lives provided they receive chronic medication.
What Causes PKD in Cats?
Much like the genetic mutation responsible for the short ears of Scottish Fold cats, PKD is caused by a genetic anomaly. It only takes one feline parent to carry the gene for the litter to be affected. Unfortunately, other than having your pet assessed by a veterinarian, there is little that you can do to prevent your feline from contracting the disease. As previously mentioned, flat-faced cat breeds are at high risk of PKD, and it is most common in Persian cats.
To determine whether your cat has polycystic kidney disease, a veterinarian will perform an ultrasound and test the blood and urine to detect kidney dysfunction. Radiographs are taken to identify irregularities in the shape of the kidneys.
Treatment for Feline Polycystic Kidney Disease
If you receive the unfortunate news that your cat has an illness like polycystic kidney disease, they’ll need lifelong care. Sadly, PKD itself cannot be treated, but the symptoms can be managed with supportive care. PKD cats are placed on special low-protein diets to encourage stable kidney function. Chronic medication is prescribed to reduce nausea and ease the symptoms of kidney failure. Your feline companion will need regular veterinary visits to determine whether the symptoms are worsening.
Early intervention is key when dealing with PKD in cats. Therapy can protect the kidneys from rapid damage and possibly extend the lifespan of cats with this disease. Throughout the progression of this condition, the treatment plan will be adjusted. Many cat owners have looked into kidney transplants for cats with renal failure, and while it is possible, it is not without challenges. It isn’t easy to find a suitable donor, and the procedure is extremely expensive. There is also little evidence to show that PKD cats with kidney transplants live significantly longer or enjoy a higher quality of life.
How Long Do Cats with PKD Live?
The longevity of cats with PKD is based on the stage of the illness. On average, cats with PKD live just over three years from diagnosis. Stage 1 and Stage 2 polycystic kidney disease have the best prognosis, with cats living for many years provided they receive chronic care. During this period, diet modifications and medication are prescribed. Don’t forget to do all of the activities your pet loves, as constant vet visits and administering oral medication can affect your kitty’s mental health.
Once cats reach the third and fourth stages of PKD, pain management is prioritized, and pets with life-threatening symptoms may be hospitalized. Cats with renal failure live for only a few months. PKD symptoms generally appear in cats over seven years of age. If pain becomes severe or your cat has kidney failure, your vet may advise on end-of-life options. Saying goodbye is an incredibly hard decision but always prioritize your pet’s quality of life.
What You Should Know About PKD in Cats
A PKD diagnosis isn’t the end of the world. You can work with your vet to determine how to move forward with specialized care. This includes diet changes and prescription medication based on your pet’s stage of PKD. While you cannot cure PKD, you can be aware of breeds at high risk of developing this disease. For example, polycystic kidney disease is higher in Persians and similar cat breeds. If you are interested in purchasing kittens from these breeds, the parents should be tested for the PKD gene. This certificate must be provided by the breeder.
No one wants to hear the devastating news of their pet’s terminal illness, but with early care, many cats with PKD can live long lives. Understanding feline polycystic kidney disease helps you spot the symptoms quickly. This means early intervention and taking every possible step towards your fur friend’s well-being and comfort.
