How do I take a urine sample from a cat? - briefly
To collect a urine sample from a cat, use a clean, non-absorbent litter or a special urine collection kit, and gently express the bladder if necessary under veterinary guidance.
How do I take a urine sample from a cat? - in detail
To collect a urine sample from a cat, preparation and patience are essential. Begin by ensuring you have the necessary supplies: a clean, shallow litter box or tray, non-absorbent litter (such as plastic pellets or specialized urine collection litter), a sterile container for the sample, and disposable gloves. Remove the cat’s regular litter box and replace it with the prepared tray containing the non-absorbent litter. Cats are naturally inclined to use a litter box, so this method encourages them to urinate as usual while allowing the urine to pool for collection. Place the tray in a quiet, familiar area to minimize stress for the cat. Monitor the cat closely, as you’ll need to act quickly once they urinate to avoid contamination. Once the cat has finished, use a clean syringe or pipette to draw the urine from the tray and transfer it into the sterile container. Ensure the container is securely sealed and labeled with the cat’s name and the date and time of collection. If the cat is uncooperative or the process proves challenging, consult a veterinarian, who may use alternative methods such as cystocentesis, a procedure performed under professional supervision to directly extract urine from the bladder. Always handle the sample carefully to maintain its integrity for testing and analysis.