Urinalysis can be used as part of an investigation of recurrent colic, stranguria, dysuria, polyuria, polydypsia weight loss and other presenting complaints.
When catheterised urine samples are obtained, consideration of the effects of sedation is important. alpha-2 agonist sedatives (detomidine, xylazine, romifidine) have both acute diuretic and hyperglycaemic effects. The diuretic effect is unlikely to alter the properties of the subsequently collected urine sample as a few mLs of most recently produced diuresed urine should not significantly affect the previously accumulated urine in the bladder. However, even a small amount of glycosuria might confuse diagnostic interpretation. Hence acepromazine (5-10 mg/100kg iv) perhaps supplemented by a nose twitch or a small dose of detomidine (0.5 mg/100 kg iv) should be used as necessary in geldings. In mares the use of stocks or a stable door may avoid the need for sedation.
