Kidney biopsies in dogs and cats

Kidney disease is common in cats and dogs and has a variety of causes and treatments. Kidney biopsies help to differentiate the cause and severity in patients with kidney disease but are often delayed or not performed because of concerns for the risks involved. Kidney biopsies have been shown to be a safe, effective diagnostic test and should be performed more frequently. This article summarises the various biopsy methods available, the factors necessary to consider biopsy and the complications associated with the procedure.