1. Home
  2. Home & Garden
  3. Veterinary Medicine

Correct!

The answer is: An examination of urine

A refractometer measures the urine specific gravity, or the amount of particle concentration in the urine compared to pure water. In other words, a refractometer lets the veterinarian know how well the kidneys are able to concentrate the urine.

A very dilute urine (low specific gravity) may indicate kidney disease (kidneys not functioning, not able to concentrate wastes that need to be released from the body in the form of urine), however a single specific gravity reading is not adequate to diagnose conclusively. The urine specific gravity can change throughout the day and depends on the patient's hydration status, fluid intake, etc. Blood tests and physical examination are necessary to fully utilize the information gained from the urine specific gravity.

Additional Information:


Next Question -->

 

Explore Veterinary Medicine

About.com Special Features

Home Allergy Center

Banish mess, reduce allergens, and maintain a clean, healthy home. More >

Home Improvements Made Easy

Inspirational ideas and expert tips to help you pull off your next DIY project. More >

  1. Home
  2. Home & Garden
  3. Veterinary Medicine

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.