When it comes to keeping our pets healthy, regular vet check-ups go a long way in preventing and detecting health issues early. While blood tests are a well-known diagnostic tool, urinalysis (urine testing) is just as important for monitoring your pet’s health.
Urinalysis provides key insights into kidney function, hydration levels, infections, and even early signs of conditions like diabetes. It’s a quick and non-invasive way to help ensure your pet stays happy and healthy.
What Can a Urinalysis Detect?
Urinalysis is an important diagnostic tool that can help identify a variety of health issues, including:
🔹 Kidney Disease – Changes in urine concentration or the presence of protein can indicate kidney problems, which are common in older pets.
🔹 Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) – Bacteria, white blood cells, and blood in the urine can point to an infection, which may require antibiotics.
🔹 Bladder Stones & Crystals – Some pets are prone to developing bladder stones or crystals, which can cause discomfort and difficulty urinating.
🔹 Diabetes – The presence of glucose (sugar) in the urine is a strong indicator of diabetes, which requires early intervention.
🔹 Liver Disease – Certain abnormalities in the urine, such as bilirubin, may suggest liver issues.
🔹 Dehydration – The concentration of your pet’s urine can reveal whether they’re properly hydrated or if they need more fluids.
When Should Your Pet Have a Urinalysis?
Urinalysis is a useful test in many different situations, including:
✅ Annual Health Checks – Including urinalysis in your pet’s regular check-up helps detect issues early and establish a baseline for their normal urine values.
✅ Senior Pet Monitoring – As pets age, they become more susceptible to kidney disease, diabetes, and bladder problems. Regular urine testing can help catch these conditions early.
✅ If They’re Drinking or Urinating More Than Usual – Increased thirst or frequent urination can be signs of underlying health problems like diabetes or kidney disease.
✅ If They Have Accidents or Struggle to Urinate – Sudden changes in toileting habits, straining to urinate, or blood in the urine could indicate an infection or bladder stones.
✅ Before Surgery – Pre-anaesthetic testing, including urinalysis, helps ensure your pet’s organs are functioning well before undergoing surgery.
How Is a Urinalysis Performed?
Collecting a urine sample is usually straightforward. In many cases, pet owners can bring a fresh sample from home in a clean container. However, for more accurate results, our veterinary team may collect a sample in-clinic using a safe and sterile method.
- Colour & Clarity – Checking for cloudiness or unusual colours that may indicate infection or blood.
- pH & Concentration – Assessing hydration levels and kidney function.
- Protein, Glucose & Other Substances – Detecting potential signs of kidney disease, diabetes, or infection.
- Bacteria & Crystals – Identifying infections, inflammation, or the risk of bladder stones.
A Simple Test That Provides Big Answers
Urinalysis is a quick, simple, and painless way to gain valuable insights into your pet’s health. Early detection means better treatment options and improved outcomes, helping your pet live a longer, healthier life.
If your pet is due for a health check or you’ve noticed changes in their drinking or toileting habits, book an appointment with us today.
