The Bottom Line
Kit4Cat is a way to easily collect cat urine for analysis. Unlike other non-absorbent materials, sand is a natural litter box material, and most cats will use it readily. Urine is easily collected with the enclosed pipette.
This method of urine collection is less invasive than a cystocentesis (collecting urine via a needle into the bladder), and according to the manufacturer, the sand will not interfere with test results. It is important to note that this method of collection is not appropriate for all tests, specifically culture and sensitivity testing, which tests for bacteria.
See Kit4Cat in action: Photo Gallery
Pros
- The sand definitely repels liquid.
- Easy, non-stressful and non-invasive method for collection of urine at home.
- Very similar to 'regular' litter, less chance of box avoidance.
- The sand may be reused, if for the same cat over a short period of time.
- Non-toxic and environmentally friendly.
Cons
- Not really a con, but my test cat loved playing with the beads of liquid. Supervise.
- The sample appeared dusty, but according to the manufacturer, this does not interfere with tests.
Description
- Hydrophobic (water repelling) sand that does not absorb or interact with urine, even if when used to 'cover' the urine.
- Easy to use in place of regular litter to collect cat urine for analysis. Great for testing
- Great for monitoring cats with diabetes, kidney failure, or other urinary tract problems.
Guide Review - Kit4Cat - Hydrophobic Litter Box Sand for Urine Collection and Analysis
This is a litter that would most often be used in a home setting, but may also be used in a clinic setting for some cases, particularly with stressed or fractious cats or cats who are boarding for medical reasons.
The sand looks and feels like natural sand. It is a bit dusty, but not as bad as many (most?) clay litters on the market. The bag containing the pipette and urine collection via, which is shipped inside the bag of sand, had opened, and the pipette was quite dusty.
The dust shouldn't be a problem for laboratory testing, and this product has been extensively tested in various laboratory situations according to the Kit4Cat company FAQ page:
"The dust is from the hydrophobic sand and will not change the urine sample properties in any way.""product has been extensively tested in various laboratory situationsKit4Cat has been approved by thousand of veterinarians and technicians around the world and has gone through extensive research and testing. Many industry leaders in the veterinary community have recommended Kit4Cat during their speaking engagements at major conferences. There are also several Veterinary Universities currently using Kit4Cat in their research programs."
This product launched in November 2010. My local veterinary colleagues have not yet tried this product, but are looking into it. Have you used this product?
For the public: If your cat needs urine testing or monitoring, this is a worthwhile product to investigate. Speak to your veterinarian about ordering this product or it is also available online (compare prices) or direct from the Kit4Cat manufacturer.
For Veterinary Clinics: please contact your distributor sales rep for current pricing and promotions.
