How long can cat urine be stored? - briefly
Cat urine can be stored for up to 24 hours at room temperature or up to 48 hours if refrigerated, but it should be analyzed promptly for accurate results.
How long can cat urine be stored? - in detail
Cat urine can be stored for a limited period, depending on the conditions under which it is kept. Fresh cat urine, when collected in a clean, sterile container, can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 hours before it begins to degrade. For longer storage, refrigeration is essential. When kept in a sealed container in a refrigerator at a temperature of 2-8°C (35-46°F), cat urine can remain viable for analysis for up to 24 hours. Beyond this timeframe, bacterial growth and chemical changes may occur, compromising the integrity of the sample. For extended storage, freezing is an option. Cat urine stored in a freezer at -20°C (-4°F) can be preserved for several weeks, though it is important to note that freezing may alter certain properties of the urine, potentially affecting its suitability for specific tests. Proper labeling of the container with the date and time of collection is crucial to ensure accurate interpretation of results. Additionally, exposure to light, heat, or contaminants should be minimized to maintain the sample's quality. For diagnostic purposes, it is always advisable to follow the specific guidelines provided by the testing facility or veterinarian to ensure the sample remains suitable for analysis.