What is PKD?

For a good understanding of PKD, please read the article by Dr. Miller on PKD

Genetic testing for PKD

In 2004, UC Davis announced a breakthrough in PKD in persian related cats. A new DNA test done via cheek swab can identify whether the PKD1 gene is carried in a particular cat.

A very good resource for PKD comes right from the founders at UC Davis: http://faculty.vetmed.ucdavis.edu/Faculty/lalyons/Sites/PKDDNAtest.htm

Here, at Archadtz, we wholeheartedly agree with the statement made on the previous website:
Over 38% of Persian cats worldwide have PKD. Due to the high frequency of the disease, it is suggested that elimination of cats with PKD from breeding programs should be performed SLOWLY and CAREFULLY. Each cat with PKD has many good and important genes that should be maintained in the population, thus, mass neuter and spaying is NOT recommended. Most cats live long and healthy lives and do not suffer greatly from having the PKD mutation. Breeders should consider their entire breeding program as a whole and may consider to continue to breed cats with PKD. Breeding negative to positive cats would slowly eliminate the disease. Cats in subsequent generations that are PKD negative could be selected to replace inportant lines and particular cats. Ultrasound testing will determine what cats have mild and severe disease. Although the inheritance of severity is not understood, continued breeding of mildly affected cats is a conservation approach.