Urine Culture & Sensitivity

Finds the bacteria behind a urine infection, and the antibiotic that works.

About this test

Grows any bacteria in the urine and tests which antibiotics kill them, so treatment is right the first time. A vet takes the sample with a fine needle straight from the bladder (cystocentesis), which keeps it free of outside bacteria.

What it measures

Bacterial culture
Colony count
Antibiotic sensitivity

Before the test

Keep your pet from emptying the bladder in the hour before the visit, and tell us about any antibiotics already given.

Good to know

Antibiotics given before the sample can stop bacteria growing and give a falsely clear result.
Done at our centre: the sample is taken by a vet.