PKD Symptoms in Cats

Polycystic kidney disease or PKD is an inherited condition most commonly seen in Persian cats. It is a progressive and incurable disease that leads to kidney failure. Cysts are present on the kidneys of affected cats from birth. Typically, these cysts begin to grow and adversely affect the health of the cat between the ages of 3 and 10 years--the average age is 7 years. As the cysts grow, the kidney enlarges and becomes compromised. Eventually, the kidneys will fail. PKD is diagnosed by ultrasound, and genetic tests are now available to help breeders reduce the incidence of this often fatal disease.

Excessive Thirst

Excessive thirst or polydipsia is an early warning sign of PKD. PKD cysts begin to displace healthy kidney tissue, and the organ has to work harder to process urine. Your cat will begin to drink more to facilitate this process. Provide plenty of fresh, clean water for your cat at all times.

Excessive Urination

More frequent urination or polyuria usually accompanies increased thirst. As the condition worsens, there may be blood in the urine. In the early stages, polyuria is usually not severe enough to cause dehydration, but in later stages, subcutaneous fluids may be administered to combat dangerous levels of fluid loss.

Vomiting

Vomiting and loss of appetite may begin to occur as the disease progresses. An overall loss of vigor, including poor coat, weight loss and lethargy, may be noticed. It's important to provide a healthy, toxin-free diet and any supportive supplements that your health care practitioner recommends during this time.

High Blood Pressure

Kidneys play a role in blood pressure. They produce renin, an enzyme that is produced when blood flow to the kidneys is restricted. When renin is released, blood vessels constrict and raise blood pressure. Your veterinarian may prescribe anti-hypertension drugs for your cat.

Blood Phosporus

As kidney function declines, their ability to process urea--a waste product created by protein processing--declines and blood phosphorus levels increase. This can cause a calcium deficiency that affects the bones and teeth. A prescription diet that is lower in protein and phosphorus will benefit your cat at this point.

Nausea

Anti-nausea drugs and antacids can be prescribed to help your cat battle the side effects of PKD. These drugs may improve appetite and weight maintenance. Do not administer human antacids to your cat. Proceed only on the advice of your veterinarian.

Kidney Failure

Once the kidneys begin to fail, the prognosis is grim. It is possible that a cat with PKD can live a long life--it depends on the speed and size of the cyst growths. Supportive treatment can prolong the life of your cat, but PKD remains a devastating diagnosis for cat lovers.