Polycystic kidney disease in cats
Also known as PKD, Feline polycystic kidney disease.
An inherited disease in which the kidneys fill with cysts that grow over the years until they cause chronic kidney disease. It can be detected with a genetic test and has fallen sharply in catteries that use it.
- Is it urgent?
- Not usually
- Spreads to other cats
- No
- Spreads to people
- No
- Origin
- Inherited
- Typical cost in Spain
- Genetic test, €30–70; ultrasound, €70–150.
Symptoms
- No signs for years
- Later, those of chronic kidney disease: thirst, weight loss, vomiting
- Enlarged kidneys on palpation
Causes
A dominant mutation in the PKD1 gene: one carrier parent is enough. Typical of the Persian and related breeds.
How it is diagnosed
A genetic test (from the first months of life) and ultrasound, which is reliable from 10 months of age.
Treatment
There is no cure. It is managed in the same way as chronic kidney disease: renal diet, hydration and blood pressure control.
No doses, on purpose: any medicine must be prescribed by your vet for your cat.
Prognosis
Variable: some cats reach old age without problems and others develop kidney failure while young.
Prevention
Only buy from breeders who can show negative test results for both parents.
Breeds at higher risk
It is described more often in these breeds. That does not mean all of their cats will have it, nor that a moggy is free of it.
Frequently asked questions
What causes polycystic kidney disease?
A dominant mutation in the PKD1 gene: one carrier parent is enough. Typical of the Persian and related breeds.
Can polycystic kidney disease be cured?
Variable: some cats reach old age without problems and others develop kidney failure while young. There is no cure. It is managed in the same way as chronic kidney disease: renal diet, hydration and blood pressure control.
How much does it cost to treat polycystic kidney disease?
As a guide for Spain in 2026: Genetic test, €30–70; ultrasound, €70–150. Prices vary a lot between clinics and cities, and out-of-hours emergencies cost more.
Which breeds are most at risk?
It is described more often in Persian, Exotic Shorthair, Himalayan, British Shorthair and Scottish Fold. That does not mean every cat of those breeds will have it, nor that a moggy is free of it.
More in kidneys and urinary tract
Educational content from Michipedia. It does not replace diagnosis or treatment by a vet: if you have any doubt about your cat's health, ask. Costs are a guide for Spain in 2026.