What is creatinine?
Creatinine levels are a measure of creatinine, a nitrogen substance that is formed in the liver. It is manufactured in the body from three amino acids, arginine, glycine and methionine and supplies the muscles with energy. 95% of creatinine is stored skeletal muscles. Creatinine is a by-product of the metabolism that is removed from the blood via the kidneys and excreted in the urine.
When the kidneys are no longer functioning properly, they are not as efficient at filtering waste products and creatinine levels begin to build up in the blood. A creatinine test can be used to diagnose kidney failure and/or dehydration.
How are levels tested?
Creatinine levels are tested via a simple blood test
What are normal creatinine levels in cats?
| SI Units (International System) | Conventional US Units |
| 70.72 – 159.12 µmol/L | 0.8 – 1.8 mg/dl |
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