Learning How Mineral Imbalances Influence Chronic Kidney Disease in Cats

SUMMARY: Researchers will explore how mineral imbalances in cats with chronic kidney disease influences the disease as a step toward better, more effective therapies.

THE PROBLEM: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is one of the most common and serious health problems in older cats, with up to 80% of cats over the age of 15 affected. It causes significant illness and is a leading cause of death in cats.

THE PROJECT: One of the ways CKD worsens over time is through disturbances in how the body controls two minerals essential for bone formation - calcium and phosphorus. In humans, these imbalances can lead to a condition called CKD-mineral and bone disorder (CKD-MBD), which includes hardening of the blood vessels, brittle or painful bones, and further kidney damage. CKD-MBD is known to lead to heart problems and shorten life expectancy in human patients.

Disturbances in calcium and phosphorus balance are well recognized in cats with CKD, but the effects on bone strength and blood vessel changes have not yet been studied. This project will investigate how these changes develop in cats by measuring certain blood markers, looking at bone and blood vessels using advanced imaging and microscopic techniques, and linking these findings to how kidney disease worsens over time. This study aims to explore whether cats with CKD develop the same blood vessel and bone complications in a similar manner as humans. The findings from this study will help identify early markers of these problems and assess how they affect the health and survival of cats with CKD. This knowledge is crucial for improving detection, monitoring, and the development of new treatments for CKD in cats.

POTENTIAL IMPACT: By addressing this important knowledge gap, the study will ultimately help improve quality of life and extend the lives of cats with kidney disease.