Early detection of Chronic Kidney Disease

In this video, Dr Tabitha Hookey (DVM, Dipl. ACVIM Nutrition) will take you through the most common questions regarding the early detection of Chronic Kidney Disease 

At what stage of CKD would clinical signs typically appear?

While chronic kidney disease is a progressive disease, in many cases it is possible to detect the disease before the onset of clinical symptoms, when the remaining functional renal mass is less than 25% of normal, corresponding to IRIS stages 3 and above.

What is the value of Symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA) compared to standard parameters?

Measurement of SDMA, in conjunction with serum creatinine concentration and repeated over time, can provide valuable information regarding a patient’s glomerular filtration rate.

From what age would you recommend starting to assess kidney function?

The information gained from evaluation of a minimum database is valuable for pets of all ages. As the prevalence of CKD increases significantly with age, especially in cats, it is prudent to monitor renal function annually in cats starting at about 7 years old.

To learn more, watch the full video!