Tests included:
Gross description, Specific Gravity, Strip Test (pH, Protein, Glucose, Ketones, Bilirubin, Blood (Haem), Leukocytes, Nitrates, Urobilinogen), Sediment Examination
Species:
Avian
Specimen:
Urine
Container:
Plain container (yellow top)
Collection Protocol:
Urine collection can be aided by giving water by a crop tube – the bird will often urinate shortly after. Avian urine has a concentrated white to off white uric acid component and clear watery component – the watery fraction is assessed. A fresh or recently refrigerated sample is required. Prolonged storage causes lysis of cells.
Interpretation:
pH - Ranges from 6.0-8.0 (diet related)
Protein - Trace amounts normal
Glucose - Trace amounts normal in some species. Will occur if blood glucose is >33.3 mmol/L.
Ketones - Negative in normal birds. Increased with diabetes & increased fat metabolism
Specific gravity - 1.005-1.020
Bilirubin - Not normally present. Biliverdin is the major bile pigment which does not react with the mammalian urine dip stick
Blood - Negative or trace
Nitrates - Unreliable in birds
Urates - White, pale yellow and pale grey are normal
Liver disease - Urates are yellow to green
Sediment - RBC & WBC: normal <3/HPF. Epithelial cells: Normally none present. Casts: Presence is associated with renal disease. Bacteria: False positive with faecal contamination of urine (can proliferate in transit.