Cat Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) DNA Test

PKD DNA Testing for Cats

Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) is an inherited autosomal dominant disorder characterized by the formation of cysts on the kidneys, PKD could lead to eventual renal failure and possible death. The PKD DNA test is available for the following cats breeds: Persians, Himalayans, Exotics, and crosses of these three.

PKD is dominant,therefore, heterozygotes (those possessing one copy of the mutation) will likely be clinically affected. When bred to genotypically-normal cats, heterozygotes are still likely to produce clinically affected offspring 50% of the time.

Your PKD DNA-test kit includes:

• Sterile DNA-collection swabs
• Complete instructions
• Postage-paid return envelope (if mailed in the U.S.)

You can also use a DIY kit to collect samples, if you prefer.

Once testing is complete, we email a detailed DNA report showing the cat’s genotype for PKD.

The 3 possible genotypes include:

• NN: 2 copies of the normal allele
• NP Heterozygote: 1 normal copy and 1 copy of the PKD mutation
• PP: 2 copies of the PKD mutation

Polycystic Kidney Disease Inheritance

The following table shows the expected distribution of progeny genotypes based on a mating where both parents have known genotypes.

Chart Legend:

N = Normal Allele
P = PKD Mutation
NN = 2 normal copies of the gene|
NP = 1 Normal copy, 1 copy of PKD mutation
PP = 2 copies of the PKD mutation