Objectives This study was aimed at detecting feline autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease in a population of Persian and Persian-related breeds by a molecular method in Iran.

Methods Buccal swab samples were collected from 47 cats and examined with a touchdown PCR method. Additionally, partial sequencing was performed in two cats with bilateral renal cysts.

Results Twenty-two cats (46.8%) were diagnosed as heterozygous for this mutation. Sequence analysis of two cats showed C to A point mutation in the PKD1 gene, as in previous studies.

Conclusions and relevance Prevalence of this disease is high in Iran, highlighting the need for molecular screening tests before including cats in breeding programmes.