Have you heard of Polycystic Kidney Disease?

This condition is genetic in certain breeds of cats, such as Persians and Himalayans, for example

o It is considered a heritable, autosomal dominant condition

o It is highly recommended to perform genetic testing for this mutation in these breeds!

o Dogs can be affected as well, but it is much more common in cats

In this condition, a cat’s kidneys have multiple fluid-filled cysts. The kidneys are often enlarged.

It can cause kidney disease, which can lead to clinical signs such as increased thirst and urination, as well as decreased appetite, vomiting, among others

This condition is usually diagnosed on ultrasound

References:

https://www.merckvetmanual.com/urinary-system/congenital-and-inherited-anomalies-of-the-urinary-system/renal-anomalies

Tilley, L. P., & Smith, F. W. (2005). The 5-minute veterinary consult: Canine and feline. Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.