Collect a Urine Sample
How to Take a Urine Sample at Home
Collecting a urine sample for your veterinarian is an important part of maintaining your pet’s health. A urine sample can assist your veterinarian in diagnosing and treating a variety of urinary and kidney issues, including infections, crystals, and bladder stones. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to collect a urine sample for your vet visit:
Gather your supplies: You will need a clean container with a tight-fitting lid, such as a small plastic Tupperware or jar. You may also want to wear gloves to protect yourself from potential contaminants.
Observe your pet: Pay close attention to your pet’s urination habits and try to collect the sample as soon after urination as possible.
Collect the sample: There are a few different methods you can use to collect a urine sample from your pet:
Free catch method: This method involves allowing your pet to urinate in its usual location, and then catching the urine midstream in a clean container.
Expressing method: This method involves gently pressing on your pet’s bladder to express a small amount of urine. You can do this by positioning your pet in a way that allows access to the bladder, such as on its side or on its back, and gently pressing on the abdomen. It is recommended to clean the prepuce or vulva with warm water or alcohol-free baby wipes to reduce contamination of the sample from the lower urinary tract. Collect the midstream urine into the clean container.
Keep the samples refrigerated if you’re unable to bring them to the hospital immediately. The samples should be less than 12 hours old. First morning urine samples are most accurate and highly recommended.
For cats: Empty the litter box and thoroughly clean it with warm water and soap. Fill the litter box with plastic beads (available from your veterinarian) to prevent urine absorption. Place the litter box back in its usual spot. Collect the urine sample in a clean container, such as a Tupperware container or jar, using a clean spoon, syringe, or pipette. Try to obtain a urine sample that is not contaminated with feces as this can interfere with normal test results.