Protocol for inducing cystitis via direct instillation of acrolein into the bladder of mice

Mouse models of bladder inflammation, termed cystitis, can be used to study urinary dysfunction and visceral pain in both sexes. Here, we present a protocol for a mouse model of cystitis that is induced by instilling acrolein directly into the urinary bladder using a transurethral catheter. We provide instructions for preparing the acrolein solution and catheterizing female and male mice. We then detail procedures for confirming the voiding dysfunction phenotype using the void spot assay.