Urinalysis
There are numerous reasons to test the urine of a dog or cat. The urine can tell us if there is a urinary infection, give us clues as to how well the kidneys are functioning, and indicate whether a dog or cat may be diabetic. Urinary crystals and pH imbalances can also be best detected through examination of the urine. This information is helpful whether your pet has any indication of problems or not. We regularly find urinary infections that owners never even suspected. At Northwest Veterinary Hospital, we recommend a yearly urinalysis for all pets, and package it with the annual wellness/senior blood workup.
It is important that the urine samples be fresh and clean, and the best way to achieve this is to allow our staff to collect it. If at all possible, do not walk your dogs in the hours before their appointment, and restrict access to the litter box for cats (or don't let them outside if they use nature's litter box).