Impactos da exposição a diferentes tipos de substratos na densidade urinária de gatos domésticos

Abstract

Urinary specific gravity (USG) monitoring can signal relevant changes associated with the renal system. Despite being an easily measurable parameter, urine collection in cats can often be a stressful event, making the use of hydrophobic substrates or aquarium gravel preferable to mitigate stress and improve the owner's adherence to disease management. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of exposure to different substrates on the USG of cats. Thirty-four urine samples from cats were exposed to various substrates (hydrophobic substrate, waterproof sand and aquarium gravel). Urine absorption and the density value were evaluated at 10, 30, 60, and 120 minutes after exposure. Aquarium gravel absorbed the samples, preventing serial evaluation. There was no statistical difference between baseline USG and USG after 120 minutes for the evaluated hydrophobic substrates, even in the presence of different urinary alterations. The use of hydrophobic substrates for monitoring urinary density proved to be feasible.