Chronic kidney disease
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is an age-associated gradual decline in functional kidney tissue. It is highly prevalent in both human and animal populations, especially in overweight people, but also in aged cats.
The condition usually leads to healthy kidney tissue becoming replaced by fibrotic, collagenous tissue. There is currently no treatment for CKD other than a renal transplant or renal replacement therapy (dialysis). Neither therapy is readily available for veterinary patients, so the prevention of CKD remains our main priority.
Spotlight project
Preventing CKD in cats
Chronic kidney disease is prevalent in the domestic feline population. In the UK, vets very rarely, if ever, treat cats with dialysis or a renal transplant, so prevention is key. Diet appears to be an important factor in the development of CKD among cats. Our research, featured on BBC2’s Trust me I’m a Vet, is investigating possible causes and potential markers.