How SDMA Testing Can Detect Renal Disease in Your Pet

Renal (kidney) disease can afflict up to 10 percent of all dogs and up to one-third of all cats, with deadly results as kidney function eventually grinds to a halt. Luckily for pet owners, however, a new diagnostic technique called an SDMA test now allows veterinarians to diagnose renal disease earlier than ever before -- and we offer it here at Forsyth Veterinary Hospital.

Detecting kidney problems in their early stages has always been a challenge for even the most skilled veterinarians. This is because the longtime standard test for renal disease tends to deliver results only in advanced cases. Traditionally, clinics would test an animal's blood creatine levels for abnormalities that indicate renal failure. Unfortunately, by the time creatine levels have changed significantly, the kidneys may already be at 75 percent failure -- which may be too late to provide meaningful treatment.

The SDMA test is a game-changer for its ability to detect renal disease at a much earlier stage of development. SDMA stands for symmetric dimethylarginine, a form of the amino acid arginine excreted by the kidneys. By measuring SDMA levels instead of creatine levels, we can detect renal failure while it is still within the 25 to 40 percent zone. That means your dog's kidney problem may be detected and diagnosed up to 9 months earlier than the old method could have done it. For cats, the difference may be up to 17 months! This lets us start treatment while your pet still has enough renal function to respond positively, giving you more quality time with your beloved companion.

Schedule SDMA Testing at Forsyth Veterinary Hospital

SDMA is a terrific leap forward in renal disease testing as a part of your pet's annual wellness evaluations -- but it is still up to you to schedule those appointments. So give your pet's kidneys a favor by contacting Forsyth Veterinary Hospital, your veterinarian in Winston-Salem, North Carolina!

Have owned a pet that had kidney failure? How late was it detected?

Call us today to schedule an appointment 336-765-1225