Ref Code: CAT14

Category

Teaching - 2

Research - 4

Objective

To collect a urine sample suitable for laboratory analysis.

Alternatives to animal use

None practical. Where catheterisation techniques are to be demonstrated, the anatomy and the technique should be demonstrated on abattoir specimens before working with the live animal.

Details of Procedure

1. Manual stimulation. Ensure sufficient restraint to prevent the beast from moving away during the procedure. Gently massage the skin under the vulva (escutcheon). In most cases this will result in urine flow in less than one minute.

2. Catheterisation of the bladder. Ensure that the beast is restrained in a crush or bail to minimise movement during the procedure. Use either a Neilsen catheter or an AI sheath. Ensure that all equipment is suitably sterilised. Clean the vulva and perineal area with water and disinfectant. After donning and lubricating a glove, locate the opening of the urethra on the ventral floor of the vagina, approximately 30mm anterior to the vulva. Use an index finger to open the urethral opening and to direct the catheter. Gently insert the catheter. In a mature cow the catheter may be passed up to 200mm before urine will flow.

Drugs, chemicals, or biological agents

For catheterisation procedures, use disinfectant to clean the perineal region and obstetrical lubricant to aid passage of the catheter.

Impact of procedure on the wellbeing of animal(s)

Procedure is well tolerated if undertaken with due care.

Reuse and repeated use. Catheterise once per day only.

Care of animal(s) during/after procedure

With manual stimulation - none. For catheterisation - observation. If the animal becomes fractious during catheterisation, stop the procedure. Monitor urine colour for presence of infection for five days after catheterisation.

Pain relief measures

None required.

Qualifications, experience or training necessary to perform this procedure

Demonstrator: Extensive experience with this procedure. The procedure should be clearly demonstrated to students before they attempt it and they must be closely supervised.

Students: Understanding of the anatomy of the cow. Experience with restraining cattle. Understanding of sterile techniques.