Urinalysis

A comprehensive urine test can provide a wealth of information about the body’s condition. A comprehensive urine test examines, among other things:

• Color, odor, and volume of urine.
• Collected urine is analyzed using the Vetlab UA Analyzer to detect the presence of protein, blood, sugar, and bile pigments. The acidity (pH) of the urine is also determined.
• Next, the specific gravity is determined.
• In animals that are losing weight, the UPC ratio can be measured to detect (early-stage) kidney failure.
• The urine sediment is examined microscopically using our Sedivue Dx Urine Sediment Analyzer, during which any cells found are assessed, and the sample is checked for crystals (which can cause bladder grit and bladder stones) and bacteria.
• If bacteria are found, a culture may be performed, along with an antibiotic susceptibility test.

Sometimes a diagnosis can be made based on a urinalysis alone, but further testing is often necessary.