A urinalysis tells us a lot about your pet's kidneys, bladder and overall health. It can detect urinary tract infections, crystals, blood, sugar and signs of kidney disease.
We may recommend a urine test if your pet is drinking or urinating more, having accidents or straining, or as part of a senior wellness exam. A urine culture can identify the bacteria behind an infection.
How to Collect a Urine Sample From Your Pet
Your vet may ask you to bring a fresh urine sample from home, or the sample may be collected at the clinic. If you're collecting it yourself, these tips can help:
- For dogs, slide a clean, shallow container or ladle under your dog mid-stream on a leash walk
- For cats, use a clean litter box with non-absorbent litter or an empty box so urine can be poured into a container
- Use a clean, sealed container and label it with your pet's name
- Bring it in quickly, ideally within a couple of hours, and refrigerate it if there's a delay
A first-morning sample is often the most helpful, but follow your vet's specific instructions.
When a Sterile Urine Sample Is Needed
For a urine culture, your vet may need a sample that hasn't touched the skin, fur or a container on the ground. The most common method is cystocentesis, where a thin needle is passed through the belly wall directly into the bladder. It sounds uncomfortable, but it's quick and most pets tolerate it about as well as a routine blood draw.
A sterile sample gives the most accurate culture results, because it helps make sure any bacteria found came from the bladder itself. Your vet may also use ultrasound to guide the needle. If your pet needs this test, our team may ask you not to let them urinate right before the visit so the bladder has enough urine.
Questions about Urine Testing?
Call us or book an appointment online, and our team will help you decide on the next step for your pet.
Urine Testing: Frequently Asked Questions
How long is a urine sample from home good for?
What are signs of a urinary tract infection in pets?
Why does my vet need a urine test if bloodwork is normal?
Is collecting urine with a needle safe for my pet?
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