Mission Accomplished: Collecting a Urine Sample for Mickey

This is a personal record of my life with my cat, Mickey, who lives with a chronic illness.
The English version is translated with the help of AI tools, with care and love.
This post was originally published on May 21, 2025.

Why We Needed a Urine Sample

Urine is an important health barometer for cats, especially for those with kidney disease. When Mickey was diagnosed, the veterinarian told us: “Please bring a urine sample for testing.”
At that moment, my honest reaction was, “Wait, how do I collect a cat’s urine!?”
Mickey uses a litter box with a food cover, and he sits deep inside the box with his rear end against the litter, which makes catching urine directly feel almost impossible. And so, our urine-collection mission began.

Trying Different Urine-Collection Tactics

First Attempt: The Cup Strategy

I’d seen a tip online suggesting something like “catch the urine with a ladle” — but honestly, how many cats would calmly pee into a ladle!?
So instead, I tried using a yogurt container lid as a makeshift cup and buried it gently in the cat litter.
…But Mickey saw it and instead chose a spot just slightly forward. Mission failed! A clever kitty indeed.

Second Attempt: Small Saran Wrap Strategy

Next, I tried placing a small square of plastic wrap where he usually pees. The idea was zero foreign feel… but Mickey managed to avoid it again. So close, yet no sample.

Third Attempt: Large Saran Wrap Strategy — And Success!

We moved to a larger sheet of wrap covering half of the litter box and created a little dip to catch any urine.
And the next morning… there it was! Right on the plastic wrap!
I carefully transferred it into the collection kit and brought it to the hospital. The sense of accomplishment was overwhelming.

Mickey’s Urine Test Results

Mickey’s urine specific gravity came back as 1.026. It isn’t excellent, but it’s not the worst either. This number can help us keep an eye on his kidney health going forward.

A Lesson in the Importance of Urine Tests

Through this experience, I learned firsthand just how valuable urine testing is for monitoring kidney health.
Thank you, Mickey, for cooperating! Let’s keep doing our best to take care of your health, one small mission at a time.