We attempt to locate and measure the length of each kidney. We also measure the length of the L2 vertebra, and the reported kidney measures are scaled using the L2 length as in the cited reference.

The right kidney is more difficult to see in most images because the cranial pole nestles in the renal fossa of the caudate lobe of the liver.

We can measure feline kidneys in both the VD and Lateral views. Notes specific to each view:
1. In the case of a VD image, kidney labelling is dependent on it truly being a VD (and not a DV). The algorithm will generally work on a DV image as well, but it will result in the kidneys being mis-labelled as to right and left). In the VD image, the algorithm may decide that it cannot clearly find one or both kidneys - in that case, the measurement(s) are skiped.
2. In the case of a Lateral image, the kidneys are labelled “K1” and “K2”. Usually, “K1” is the Right Kidney, but in some cases, based on animal positioning and other factors, this may not be the case. Better to use a VD to identify each kidney. In the Lateral image, the algorithm always attempts to find both kidneys. So, user oversight is suggested - if one or both kidneys are simply not visible, the algorithm will just be guessing. So the user should be vigilant and check the results of the algorithm

The image should show the entire lumbar spine - if the spine is cut off, it may result in an error in locating L2.

Special Feed Recommendation

When one or both kidneys measure small, the report can suggest that a special feed may be appropriate for the cat. If your clinic works with a particular brand, we can configure your account to mention the brand of your choice.