High creatinine but normal SDMA, urinlaysis and blood pressure. Is it actually CKD stage 3?

Help, I'm really worried about my cat, Luna. We just got back from the vet, and I'm feeling overwhelmed. Her recent blood work showed high creatinine levels, but her SDMA, urinalysis, and blood pressure came back normal. The vet mentioned something about possible Stage 3 CKD, but I'm confused because I thought all the tests should indicate kidney disease if that's the case. Luna hasn't been showing any major symptoms, just maybe drinking a bit more water than usual. She's always been such a playful cat, and the thought of her being sick is scaring me so much. Has anyone else's pet had mixed test results like this? How worried should I be, or is there something else that could be causing these numbers? Any advice or experiences would be really appreciated. Thanks.

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Answer

Thanks for reaching out with your question. Understanding lab results can be a bit tricky, and it's great that you're being proactive with your pet's health.



An elevated creatinine level often raises concerns about kidney function, but when other markers like SDMA, urinalysis, and blood pressure are normal, it can sometimes indicate other factors at play. Creatinine can rise due to dehydration, muscle breakdown, or even a high-protein diet, not just kidney issues.



Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is usually diagnosed based on a persistent increase in creatinine levels combined with other changes such as abnormal urinalysis results, increased SDMA, or high blood pressure. Since your pet's other results are normal, it might be worth considering rechecking creatinine to ensure it's not a temporary spike.



At home, making sure your pet stays well-hydrated can be helpful. Encourage plenty of water and provide balanced meals to support overall health. Keep an eye on your pet for signs like decreased appetite, vomiting, or increased urination, which could signal kidney problems.



If you're concerned or notice any changes in your pet's condition, consider booking a video consult with a Dial A Vet professional. They'll be able to provide tailored advice specific to your furry friend's needs.

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