What is Chronic Kidney Disease and is your pet at risk?

Value of SDMA

One of the most commonly diagnosed diseases in veterinary medicine is Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) in senior cats. CKD is progressive and results in kidney failure and death, Unfortunately, we often diagnose this disease in its late stages. Historically we have been able to do a combination of blood and urine tests, looking for an elevated BUN (Blood Urea Nitrogen) and Creatinine to signify disease within the kidneys. While these tests are accurate, they only tell us there is kidney disease after 75% of kidney function is lost. With this system many cats may have significant kidney disease lurking, but appear to be normal on blood-work.

Fortunately a new test is available and it is changing how early we can find this disease. A new test called Symmetric Dimethylarginine (SDMA) is a renal marker that detects CKD when only 25% of kidney function is lost. This is much earlier in the disease process, and therefore allows us to make recommendations for care earlier. Earlier diagnosis and earlier intervention may mean a better prognosis over time.