Canine chronic kidney disease in UK veterinary practices: prevalence, risk factors and survival

Analyses covering 107,214 dogs attending 89 UK practices aimed to estimate the prevalence and identify risk factors associated with canine chronic kidney disease (CKD) diagnosis and survival. The apparent prevalence (AP) was estimated using a cross-sectional approach while the true prevalence (TP) was estimated using Bayesian analysis. A nested case-control study design was used to evaluate risk factors. Survival analysis was conducted using the Kaplan-Meier survival curve method and multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression modelling. CKD AP was estimated at 0.21% and TP at 0.37%. CKD risk factors included increasing age, being insured and certain breeds. The median survival time was 226 days. IRIS stage and blood urea nitrogen concentration at diagnosis were significantly associated with hazard of CKD death. This study of a clinically important condition indicates the increasing importance of electronic patient records (EPRs) to evaluate diseases in companion animals