Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) in Persian Cats

If you're thinking of getting a Persian, PKD is the health question worth asking about first. It's the best-known inherited disease of the breed, and the good news is that careful breeders can screen for it [1][3].

What is PKD in cats?

• Small fluid-filled sacs, called cysts, grow inside the kidneys [1].
• They're there from birth, start tiny, and slowly grow in number and size [1].
• Over the years they can replace healthy kidney tissue and lead to kidney failure [1][2].

Most affected cats look completely normal for years. Signs often show up around 7 years of age [1].

Is it contagious?

No. PKD is inherited, not caught. It's passed from parent to kitten through a single gene, and one copy from either parent is enough to cause it [1][3].

Which cats get it?

Persians are the breed most affected [1][3]. It also shows up in related breeds such as Himalayans, Exotic Shorthairs and British Shorthairs [1][3]. In older studies from several countries, it was found in roughly 4 to 5 in 10 Persians [3].

What signs mean "see a vet"?

Book a vet visit if your cat, especially a middle-aged or older one:

• Drinks more, or pees more [1][4].
• Eats less, or loses weight [1][4].
• Seems tired, or vomits [1][4].

These are general signs of kidney trouble, not only PKD. Only a vet can tell what's behind them [1][4].

Can it be prevented?

Not in a cat that already carries the gene, whatever the diet or care [1][3]. Prevention happens before a kitten is born: breeders test their cats and don't breed from affected ones [1][2][3].

Did you know? In one Brazilian study, after years of screening programmes, only about 5% of Persians tested had PKD, compared with around 40% in older studies elsewhere [3]. Testing really works.

FAQ

What should I ask a breeder?

Ask whether both parents were tested for PKD, and see the results [1][2][3].

Does every Persian get PKD?

No. Only cats that inherit the gene get it, which is why parent testing matters [1][3].

Is there a cure?

No cure removes the cysts. A licensed vet can help look after your cat's kidney health over time [1].