Urinalysis and urine sediment examination
Urine examination with sediment assessment in our laboratory, which is essential in kidney disease, cystitis and urolithiasis. The sample can be collected at home or at the practice under ultrasound guidance.
What it involves
Urinalysis has three parts: physical assessment (colour, clarity, specific gravity — that is, how well the kidneys concentrate urine), a dipstick test (protein, glucose, blood, bilirubin, pH) and microscopic examination of the sediment, which shows blood cells, bacteria, crystals and renal casts.
Urine is the simplest and often the most sensitive kidney test: a lowered specific gravity appears earlier than a rise in blood creatinine. Crystals in the sediment hint at the type of urinary stones and the appropriate diet, and the protein-to-creatinine ratio (UPC) shows kidney damage. If infection is suspected, we send a sterilely collected urine sample for culture and sensitivity testing.
We do the test on site; we usually have the result within 30–60 minutes.
When it is used
We recommend a urine test for any change in urination (frequent urination, blood, straining, urinating outside the litter tray), increased thirst, in monitoring kidney disease, diabetes and Cushing's disease, in the geriatric panel, and as a complement to a blood test before anaesthesia in seniors.
In cats with recurring bladder problems we repeat it every few months, and in animals with urinary stones — after a change of diet, to check whether the crystals have gone.
Indications: symptoms that should prompt a visit
- A cat keeps going to the litter tray, strains and passes little urine.
- There is blood in the urine, or the urine has an unusual colour and smell.
- A dog asks to go out more often than usual and leaks urine in the house.
- The animal drinks much more and passes very pale, watery urine.
- A dog or cat has been diagnosed with kidney disease or diabetes and it needs monitoring.
- A bitch has recurring cystitis after antibiotics.
- A senior before anaesthesia — we want to assess urine concentration.
Conditions for which we use it in particular
Diagnostics beforehand
The best sample is morning urine, delivered in a clean container within 2–4 hours (in a fridge for up to 6 hours). For a cat, the non-absorbent litter we give out at reception helps; for a dog — a clean container held under the stream while urinating, preferably a midstream sample.
If a culture is needed or a home sample cannot be obtained, we collect urine on site by cystocentesis — puncturing the bladder with a thin needle under ultrasound guidance. It is quick, safe and the most reliable way to collect it; in that case please do not let the dog out just before the visit, so that the bladder is full.
How it proceeds
After the clinical examination we assess the sample: we measure specific gravity with a refractometer, do a dipstick test, spin the urine and examine the sediment under the microscope. If there are bacteria in the sediment and the sample was collected sterilely, we send it for culture (result in 3–5 days). If kidney disease is suspected, we measure UPC.
We discuss the result with you on the spot, comparing it with the blood test and ultrasound if they were done. The whole visit usually takes about an hour.
Aftercare
After cystocentesis, a trace of blood may appear in the first urine passed — this is normal and resolves within a day. The animal needs no restrictions.
We start treatment (diet, medication, increasing water intake) straight away; we usually plan a follow-up urine test after 4–6 weeks or after the antibiotic course ends. Please call immediately if the animal stops passing urine or becomes lethargic.
Frequently asked questions
How long can a urine sample wait before testing?
It is best to bring it in within 2 hours; in a refrigerator the sample remains usable for up to 6 hours. Older urine gives false sediment and pH results.
Is bladder puncture safe?
Yes — it is a routine collection under ultrasound guidance with a thin needle, lasting a few seconds. Most animals do not even notice it, and the sample is sterile, which makes culture possible.
Is a pharmacy dipstick enough on its own?
No. A dipstick does not assess specific gravity or the sediment, and these are what decide the diagnosis. Crystals and bacteria can only be seen under a microscope.
My cat won't pee in an empty litter tray — what should I do?
Please pick up non-absorbent litter at reception. If that fails, we will collect urine on site by bladder puncture.
We manage every case individually. The scope, indications and course described above are indicative; we agree the exact diagnostic and treatment plan during the consultation. This content is for information only and does not replace a veterinary consultation.
Have questions about urinalysis and sediment examination?
Call us or book a consultation. We will set out the diagnostic and treatment plan in writing, before you decide.