Feline chronic kidney disease and symmetric dimethylarginine

Feline chronic kidney disease (CKD) implies that there is a loss of structure or function by the kidneys which has been present for at least 2-3 months. For most geriatric cats, when CKD is discussed we are referring to the development and progression of tubulointerstitial nephritis which is characterised by progressive inflammation, fibrosis and loss of nephrons.

There has been considerable interest in recent years in optimising early diagnosis of CKD in the ageing cat given that the histopathological changes, once present, are irreversible; an early diagnosis therefore gives the greatest opportunity for slowing both development and progression of disease.

The relatively new surrogate marker of glomerular filtration rate (GFR), symmetric dimethylarginine, has been reported to allow the earlier identification of cats with CKD. This article will explore the current knowledge base on the utility of this marker in cats and highlight areas where continued study is required.