Glossary

Urinalysis

A set of tests on a cat's urine that reveals kidney function, infection, crystals, diabetes and more.

Also called: urine test, urine analysis, urine sample, urine specific gravity

A urinalysis examines a sample of urine. The vet checks its color and clarity, measures how concentrated it is (called specific gravity), tests for protein, sugar, blood and other chemicals with a test strip, and looks at the sediment under a microscope for cells, bacteria and crystals. Where infection is suspected the lab may also grow a culture.

The results help diagnose many problems. Dilute urine in a cat that drinks a lot can point to chronic kidney disease or other illness. Sugar in the urine suggests diabetes mellitus. Blood, crystals or bacteria go with FLUTD signs. The test is a standard part of checks in senior cats, and a companion to blood work, because the kidneys can lose function before blood values change.

Vets prefer a sample taken straight from the bladder with a fine needle, called cystocentesis, because it is clean and quick. It is generally well tolerated. You can sometimes collect a sample at home using a non-absorbent litter that the clinic supplies. Ask the clinic how to collect and bring it, and how fresh it must be, since old samples change. Never delay a vet visit for a cat that is straining to urinate in order to collect one.

Last reviewed November 7, 2026

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Related terms

Blood panel A set of blood tests that counts cells and measures chemicals to show how a cat's organs are working. FLUTD An umbrella term for the conditions that cause pain, straining and bloody urine in a cat's bladder and urethra. Chronic kidney disease A gradual loss of kidney function, common in older cats, that can be managed for months or years but not cured. Diabetes mellitus A disease in which a cat's body cannot make or use insulin properly, so blood sugar stays too high. Bladder crystals Microscopic mineral particles in urine that can clump into stones and irritate or block a cat's urinary tract. Cystitis Inflammation of the bladder, which in cats is often stress-linked and has no infection or stone behind it.