Heska Corporation has introduced the E.R.D.-HealthScreen Feline Urine Test, the first in-clinic test developed to identify early kidney damage from potentially undetected health problems in cats. The test is designed to detect microalbuminuria, the most sensitive indicator of kidney damage. The feline test follows the launch of the company's E.R.D.-HealthScreen Canine Urine Test early last year.
"Many underlying feline diseases go undetected in a physical exam. This test gives practicing veterinarians an inexpensive new way to routinely test cats to assess their current health status, alert them to identify and treat potential disease conditions causing renal damage, and help cats live longer, healthier lives by discovering and treating disease earlier than ever before," said Wayne Jensen, Heska -- Senior Director, Diagnostic Research.
In a recent study of over 1200 cats, 25 percent were found to have undetected kidney damage. Of the 611 apparently healthy cats, 13.7 percent tested positive with the E.R.D.-HealthScreen test. For older cats, the prevalence was much higher. For example, 35.6 percent of healthy cats 12 to 15 years old tested positive. A total of 42.9 percent of the 345 cats with known pre-existing medical conditions were positive on the E.R.D.-HealthScreen Urine Test. Younger and middle-aged cats with medical conditions were much more likely to test positive compared to apparently healthy cats of the same age.
"Bringing veterinarians innovative products for unmet needs is a cornerstone of our strategy. The Feline E.R.D.-HealthScreen Urine Test is such a product which will continue to build our reputation in this area with our customers. The canine equivalent of this test was recognized as the most innovative new product in Colorado by the Denver Business Journal following its introduction last year. We are excited to bring veterinarians this new health screen tool to enhance the long term health and well-being of cats," commented Robert Grieve, Heska's Chairman and CEO.