What are the common causes of abnormal urination in dogs and cats?

Common causes include infection, uroliths (bladder or kidney stones), bladder or kidney inflammation, and behavioural or metabolic issues. A veterinary examination and laboratory tests are needed to confirm the diagnosis.

How do I correctly collect a urine sample at home?

Use a clean, sterile container or an absorbent pad and wait for your pet to urinate naturally. Collect a fresh midstream sample if possible, refrigerate it promptly, and bring it to the clinic as soon as possible for accurate results.

What problems can urinalysis help the vet detect?

Urinalysis can evaluate urine specific gravity, detect blood and white blood cells, examine urinary sediment, and identify the presence of bacteria. A urine culture or imaging studies may follow if needed.

How long does it take to see improvement after treatment?

It depends on the underlying cause. Infectious conditions typically show improvement within a few days, but the full course of treatment must be completed. Cases involving uroliths or those requiring surgery may take longer and need closer monitoring — always follow your vet's advice for follow-up appointments.

How much do the tests and treatment usually cost?

Costs vary by clinic and region — ask your vet for an estimate before proceeding.

Disease Guide

Pyuria in Dogs & Cats: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment Guide [2025]

Pus cells in the urine signal a urinary tract infection or underlying urinary disease.

Take 1 minute to check the symptoms first

Last updated: 2026/01/06

Pethealthmap Editorial Team

Sources: AVMA, ISFM, Taiwan Small Animal Internal Medicine Association

When to See a Vet

Seek Emergency Care Immediately

•Straining repeatedly with no urine output and signs of weakness or lethargy
•Heavy or bright-red blood in the urine that is persistent
•Severe pain, continuous crying out, or sudden collapse

Schedule a Clinic Visit Soon (within 24–72 hours)

•Noticeably increased or decreased urination frequency that persists
•Cloudy urine or strong unusual odor lasting more than one day
•Significant change in water intake accompanied by decreased appetite

01What Symptoms Indicate a Problem?

Common physical signs associated with urinary tract or urinary system disease. Note and record the following changes to help your vet make an accurate assessment.

Loss of appetite or noticeably reduced food intake
Abnormal body temperature (fever or hypothermia)
Changes in water intake or excessive drinking
Changes in urination frequency, straining, or pain when urinating
Cloudy, bloody, or foul-smelling urine
Lethargy or noticeably reduced activity levels

02How to Assess Abnormalities at Home: Key Observations and When to Seek Emergency Care

Key information you can observe and record at home to help your vet quickly understand the progression of illness and prioritise tests.

Record when symptoms started and how they have changed or persisted
Measure and record your pet's temperature daily if possible
Note any significant changes in water consumption or appetite
Observe and record urination frequency, straining, and urine colour
If you can collect a fresh urine sample, refrigerate it and bring it to the appointment for testing
Take photos or videos of any abnormal posture or behaviour during urination

03How Will the Vet Diagnose the Problem? Common Diagnostic Tests

Common examinations after arrival include clinical assessment, laboratory tests, and imaging studies to identify the underlying cause and guide treatment.

Full physical examination

abdominal and bladder palpation, and overall health assessment

Blood tests

to assess kidney function and detect infection or metabolic abnormalities

Urinalysis

specific gravity, microscopic sediment examination, and dipstick testing

Urine bacterial culture

to identify the infecting organism and determine antibiotic sensitivity

Abdominal ultrasound

to evaluate for uroliths, masses, or bladder wall changes

X-ray or CT scan when needed

to assess stone location or complex lesions

Biopsy or tissue sampling

considered only when a tumour is strongly suspected

04Treatment and Care After Diagnosis: Medications, Diet, and Home Care Guide

Treatment is tailored to the underlying cause and may include medications, dietary changes, and supportive care. Completing the full course of treatment and attending follow-up appointments reduces the risk of recurrence.

Administer medications as directed by your vet and attend scheduled follow-up appointments
Use a prescription diet or dietary adjustments if recommended
Encourage adequate water intake at home and monitor for signs of dehydration
Return for regular check-ups to monitor urinalysis and blood test results
Repeat urine culture after treatment of infection to confirm clearance
If symptoms do not improve or recur, consider a specialist referral for further evaluation

05What to Prepare Before the Vet Visit: Helping Your Vet Identify the Cause Quickly

List the onset time, frequency, and progression of each symptom

Urination log: record frequency, urine colour, and whether blood was visible

Bring a list of all current medications and supplements

Bring a fresh urine sample or an absorbent pad sample if possible

Bring any previous lab reports or imaging files if available

Call ahead to book a clinic that can perform urine culture before your visit

This content is for reference only and cannot replace a professional veterinary diagnosis. If your pet shows signs of illness, please seek veterinary care promptly.