A Review of Experimental Models of Feline Kidney Disease

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a leading cause of mortality in cats, yet no treatments currently exist to reverse or halt its progression. This lack of therapeutic options stems partly from a limited understanding of the disease pathogenesis and the complexities of its heterogeneous nature. Experimental models of kidney disease are crucial for advancing research and improving treatment outcomes. These models facilitate the identification of biomarkers, elucidate disease mechanisms, and enable the testing of potential therapies. Several feline-specific models, such as ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI), remnant kidney (RK), and toxin-induced injury (TI), have been developed to study feline kidney disease. Each model has distinct advantages and limitations, making the careful selection of appropriate models critical for progressing research in feline nephrology. The IRI model mimics acute kidney injury that can progress to CKD, while the RK model induces CKD by partially removing kidney tissue, leading to glomerular hyperfiltration. The TI model, involving toxins like meloxicam, provides a simpler approach to studying kidney damage. Despite their utility, these models present challenges, including variability in outcomes, technical demands, and the need for refined methodologies. This review examines the strengths and weaknesses of these feline models and offers recommendations for researchers working to discover new biomarkers and develop effective treatments for CKD in cats.