What is SDMA (Kidney Disease)?

As a cat owner, ensuring the health and well-being of your furry friend is a top priority. One crucial aspect of your cat's health that requires attention is kidney function. Kidney disease (CKD - chronic kidney disease) is a common issue in cats, especially as they age.

What is SDMA?

Symmetric Dimethylarginine (SDMA) is a biomarker used to evaluate kidney function in cats. SDMA is a powerful tool in the early detection & management of kidney disease in cats.

SDMA is recommended to be tested along with creatinine (CRE/CREA) & BUN. SDMA can detect mild to moderate function loss that creatinine misses, as CRE (creatinine) only shows up on blood tests when up to 75% of kidney function is lost.

This means that you will have a heads up that your cat is heading towards kidney disease, providing a critical window for intervention & management.

Why is SDMA important?

Early Detection: SDMA levels can rise before there is a significant increase in creatinine levels. This means that SDMA can detect kidney issues in their earliest stages, often before any symptoms are apparent.
More Accurate Assessment: SDMA is not influenced by muscle mass, making it a more reliable indicator of kidney function in cats of all ages & sizes, including those with muscle wasting or weight loss.
Better Management: Early detection through SDMA testing allows for timely dietary adjustments, medications & other interventions that can slow the progression of kidney disease & improve your cat's quality of life.

SDMA Levels

Normal Range: Typically, SDMA levels in cats are between 0-14 µg/dL.
Elevated SDMA: A level above 14 µg/dL suggests reduced kidney function and may indicate early-stage kidney disease. A complete urinalysis is recommended.

What Should You Do?

Consult Your Veterinarian: Your vet may recommend additional tests to confirm the diagnosis & assess the extent of kidney function impairment.
Regular Monitoring: Regularly monitoring SDMA & other kidney parameters helps track the progression of the disease and adjust treatment plans accordingly. Frequent check-ups will help monitor your cat’s condition & make necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.
Dietary Adjustments: Your vet may recommend a prescribed renal diet that is lower in protein & phosphorus to reduce the workload on your cat’s kidneys.
Medications and Supplements: Depending on the stage of kidney disease, your vet might prescribe medications (e.g. Azodyl, Renadyl, RenaCor, etc) to manage symptoms & slow the disease's progression. Supplements like omega-3 fatty acids can also be beneficial.
Hydration: Ensure your cat has access to fresh water at all times. Proper hydration supports kidney function & overall health. In some cases, your cat may need to be on subcutaneous fluids.