Cystocentesis
Cystocentesis is a veterinary procedure in which a needle is inserted into the urinary bladder of an animal through the abdominal wall, and a urine sample is taken. Diagnostic cystocentesis is used to collect a urine sample without the risks of bacterial, cellular and debris contamination that other methods have. Therapeutic cystocentesis may be employed to relieve pressure buildup due to urethral obstruction. Therapeutic cystocentesis is typically a last resort for relief, as a greatly distended bladder is more likely to rupture when punctured. A safer method of emptying the urinary bladder in this condition is by urethral catheterization.