Urinary Catheterization of Mares

Purposes of urinary catheterization of mares are to obtain a urine sample for urinalysis and detection of bacterial and viral pathogens, to drain the bladder when the patient is unable to empty its bladder, to lavage the bladder, such as in cases of sabulous cystitis and to collect timed volumes of urine for renal function analysis. Complications for urinary catheterization of mares are bacterial cystitis and trauma. Equipment required for the catheterization include 60 ml catheter-tip syringe, sterile urine specimen cup, sterile gloves, and sterile lubricant. The degree of restraint will depend on the age, training, and disposition of the horse. For the most part mares do not require sedation prior to urinary catheterization. Restraint in stocks is generally recommended.