​Feline Health Insights: Collecting & Interpreting Cat Urine for Diagnostics

Collecting cat urine samples may seem straightforward, but it’s an invaluable diagnostic tool that provides veterinarians with a window into a cat’s health. Using non-absorbent litters like Nosorb®—developed specifically for easy, low-stress collection—makes this process even more effective. Through urine analysis, veterinarians can gain insights into the urinary tract, kidney function, hydration status, and even systemic conditions. Here, we’ll cover the best methods for collecting urine from cats, what abnormalities to look for in feline urine samples, and how these indicators can guide treatment plans.

Collecting Cat Urine: Techniques and Tips

1. Free-Catch Method

• For cooperative cats, the free-catch method can be as simple as placing a special non-absorbent litter in a clean litter box. One excellent option for this method is Nosorb, the original non-absorbent litter developed by veterinarians. Nosorb’s granules are made from recycled materials and mimic the texture of traditional litter, allowing it to be added directly to the cat’s litter box without raising suspicion. Nosorb is packaged in a sealable cup, which makes it easy to transport samples to the clinic.
• Key Benefits of Nosorb:
  • Developed by veterinarians for stress-free collection
  • Effective, non-invasive urine collection with no catheter needed
  • Mimics regular cat litter for undetectable application
  • Eco-friendly, made from recycled materials
  • Packaged in a sealable cup and label for easy transport
• Pros of Free-Catch Using Nosorb: Minimizes stress, enabling natural urination while providing an effective sample collection.

2. Cystocentesis

• Cystocentesis involves using a needle to aspirate urine directly from the bladder. This method yields a sterile sample and is ideal for bacterial cultures and precise analysis. Cystocentesis does require handling and restraint, which may stress certain patients.

3. Catheterization

• Catheterization is another option, though it is generally reserved for specific cases. This method provides a more controlled sample collection however it is invasive and not always well-tolerated by cats, so it’s less commonly used than cystocentesis.

What Cat Urine Reveals: Key Diagnostic Indicators

Once the sample is collected, it’s time to analyze its components. Here’s what to look for and how it can impact the diagnosis and treatment:

1. Urine Specific Gravity (USG)

• USG evaluates kidney function and the body’s ability to concentrate urine. A high USG can indicate dehydration, while a low USG could suggest kidney disease.
• Diagnostic Implications: USG values in the hyposthenuric range (<1.008) are concerning for renal failure or other issues in the renal concentrating mechanism.

2. pH Levels

• Normal feline urine is mildly acidic, with pH typically around 6.0-6.5. Elevated pH levels may suggest urinary tract infections or certain diets, while low pH may occur in metabolic acidosis.
• Diagnostic Implications: Persistent alkaline urine might increase the risk for struvite crystal formation, while acidic urine can be seen in cases of urolithiasis involving calcium oxalate crystals.

3. Protein Content

• Small amounts of protein may be normal, but larger quantities could suggest inflammation, infection, or glomerular disease.
• Diagnostic Implications: Proteinuria is often associated with renal damage or disease, so further testing and treatment may be warranted.

4. Glucose

• Glucose in the urine (glycosuria) is not normal for cats and may be an early indicator of diabetes mellitus.
• Diagnostic Implications: If glycosuria is noted, a blood glucose test and potentially further endocrine testing should follow to confirm and treat diabetes.

5. Ketones

• The presence of ketones can suggest unchecked diabetes, especially if accompanied by glycosuria.
• Diagnostic Implications: Immediate intervention is required in cases of ketonuria, as it indicates that the body is in a state of ketosis, often associated with diabetic ketoacidosis.

6. Bilirubin and Urobilinogen

• Bilirubinuria may hint at liver dysfunction or hemolysis.
• Diagnostic Implications: Although mild bilirubinuria may sometimes be normal in felines, especially males, elevated levels need further hepatic evaluation.

7. Red and White Blood Cells

• Hematuria or pyuria in urine may suggest infection, inflammation, trauma, or neoplasia.
• Diagnostic Implications: If blood or white cells are present, further imaging or urinalysis might be required to identify the underlying cause.

8. Crystals

• Crystal identification can indicate dietary issues or urolithiasis risk.
• Diagnostic Implications: Crystals, such as struvite or calcium oxalate, might require dietary adjustments or treatments to prevent stone formation.

Case Example: Diagnosing Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD)/ Feline Idiopathic Cystitis (FIC)

Previously known as FLUTD, FIC is now recognized as a disease of stress. Consider a case where a cat presents with frequent, painful urination and occasionally bloody urine. A urinalysis shows red blood cells, an increased pH, and struvite crystals. This combination suggests FIC, specifically related to struvite crystal formation. Dietary modification and possibly antibiotic therapy may be indicated.

Cats are highly sensitive creatures, and even minor stressors can manifest as urinary issues. Most experts agree that successful FIC treatment involves two critical components:

1. Stress Reduction
   • Create a calm, predictable environment for your cat.
   • Use pheromone diffusers or sprays to reduce anxiety.
2. Optimal Litter Pan Management
   • Ensure litter boxes are clean and accessible.
   • Offer a sufficient number of litter boxes in multi-cat households.
   • Use a litter texture and location that your cat prefers.

Why Veterinarians Recommend Nosorb

The Original Solution: Nosorb is the first non-absorbent litter of its kind, trusted for over 40 years by veterinary professionals.

Proven Reliability: Used by over 750,000 cats annually, Nosorb simplifies urine collection and reduces stress for both cats and their owners.

Veterinarian-Approved: Designed to align with Fear Free and Cat Friendly principles, Nosorb supports a low-stress approach to feline healthcare.

Ideal for Monitoring: Perfect for follow-up samples and monitoring conditions such as dehydration, bladder inflammation, and feline idiopathic cystitis (FIC).

Convenient for Home Use: Enables pet owners to collect accurate urine samples at home, reducing the need for unnecessary trips to the clinic.

Easy At-Home Urine Collection: Instructions for Using Nosorb™

Simplify diagnostics and ensure accurate results by giving cat owners these simple step-by-step guidelines for collecting their cat’s urine at home, stress-free using Nosorb.

1. Keep Things Normal: Maintain your cat's regular environment to minimize stress.
2. Prepare the Litter Pan: Clean and dry the litter box thoroughly.
3. Replace the Litter: Use Nosorb instead of your cat’s regular litter.
4. Position as Usual: Place the litter pan in its typical location.
5. Keep It Private: Ensure other pets don’t have access to the litter box.
6. Collect the Sample: After your cat urinates, pour the urine into the provided Nosorb cup.
7. Aim for Precision: A sample of at least 1 teaspoon (5 mL) is ideal.
8. Deliver Promptly: Bring the sample to the veterinarian as soon as possible. If needed, check if refrigeration overnight is acceptable.

Practical Takeaways

Nosorb offers a reliable, stress-free solution for urine collection that benefits both veterinarians and their feline patients.Collecting and analyzing cat urine is more than routine — it provides crucial insights that guide diagnostics and therapeutic decisions. Products like Nosorb® simplify the process, offering a low-stress, environmentally friendly solution that enhances the free-catch method’s convenience. A well-executed urinalysis can often be the first line in uncovering conditions early, enabling prompt intervention, preserving renal health, and supporting overall feline well-being.