Washington State University unveils test to detect kidney disease risk in cats

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PULLMAN, Wash. – Washington State University’s (WSU) College of Veterinary Medicine has developed a genetic test that can predict if a cat is at high risk for chronic kidney disease, WSU said in a release.

The test, known as Feline Apoptosis Inhibitor Macrophages (FAIM), identifies a genetic variation affecting kidney repair.

“Catching the disease early means cat owners can cut out certain foods and medications to maintain their pet’s health and slow the disease’s progression,” Dr. Nicolas Villarino, an associate professor at WSU said.

Chronic kidney disease affects about 30 to 50 percent of cats over age 11 and can lead to serious health issues.

The test, which costs about $100, is available to veterinarians and cat owners.

Once the sampling kit is received, cat owners can swab their pet’s mouth and send the sample to WSU’s service center in Pullman for processing.

Villarino noted that the test could also benefit professional breeders in reducing the prevalence of the disease.

“This test aims to benefit the lives of so many cats and their owners, and there is no way we could have done this without donor support,” Villarino expressed.


 

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