If your dog or cat is booked to have an X-ray (radiograph) or CT scan, you may be wondering how the appointment will work and how you can prepare. Below, our Seattle vets share what you can expect when you bring your dog for diagnostic imaging.
About CT Scans & X-rays on Cats & Dogs
Computed tomographic imaging, also known as a "CT" or "cat scan", works by producing multiple individual images or "slices" throughout a region of interest in the body. A common comparison to an image produced by a CT scanner is individual slices of bread that make up a complete loaf. The CT machine produces two-dimensional slices of a section of your pet’s anatomy and then configures them into a complete image we can view. These slices can also be used to create three-dimensional reconstructions that can be very useful for things like surgical planning. Once the images are produced, they are sent to a veterinary specialist to review and interpret.
An X-ray is a quick and painless procedure that produces images of the structures inside your cat's or dog's body. Mostly bones from your cat or dog. X-rays pass through the body and are absorbed in various volumes depending on the density of the material through which they must pass.
What can dog or cat X-rays & CT scans help vets diagnose?
X-rays are one of the most useful and widely used tools in both human and veterinary medicine. X-rays allow veterinarians to see your pet's bones, tissues, and internal organs, allowing them to diagnose problems such as broken bones, bladder stones, swallowing foreign objects, and more.
X-ray images can assist veterinarians in detecting tumors, pregnancy, and enlarged organs, which may lead to a diagnosis of heart disease or cancer. However, X-ray technology cannot provide a detailed view of organs, tissues, and ligaments. Other diagnostic imaging, such as MRI and ultrasounds, are more useful in these cases. An X-ray of a pregnant dog can also help you prepare for puppy birth by revealing how many puppies your dog is expecting and whether a c-section is necessary for any reason.
The CT machine's high-resolution images allow us to evaluate your pet's anatomy in great detail, which we would not be able to see with standard X-rays. CT scanners provide excellent detail of the body's bony and soft tissue structures.
How can I prepare for my dog or cat's X-ray or CT scan appointment?
Often, an X-ray and CT scan are done when the animal is brought in to have an issue looked at by the vet. For that reason, no preparation is required.
If you have an X-ray or CT scan that was booked ahead of time for your pet, your vet will provide all instructions you will need for the day of the procedure.
Will my dog or cat be sedated when they have their X-ray or CT scan?
Sedation is sometimes necessary to obtain a clear X-ray. Sedation will not be required if your dog or cat is calm, not in too much pain, and able to lie in a comfortable position while the X-ray or CT scan is being performed.
Sedation, on the other hand, will be recommended if your dog or cat is squirmy, agitated, or in pain. Sedation may also be used during your pet's X-ray or scan if the dog's or cat's muscles need to be relaxed in order to obtain a clear image, or if the X-ray is being used on the skull, teeth, or spine.
A CT scan is a completely risk-free procedure. CT scans, like X-rays, use ionizing radiation, but at low doses that are not harmful to pets.
Are X-rays & CT scans safe for dogs & cats?
While X-rays and CT scanners are generally considered safe for dogs and cats, radiation is involved. As a result, X-rays and CT scans are typically used as diagnostic tools only on occasion. In some cases, veterinarians will use X-ray technology to determine a dog's pregnancy. However, other types of imaging, such as ultrasounds, could be used in that situation.
Speak with your veterinarian if you have any concerns about the use of X-ray or CT scanner technology and the health of your dog or cat. They will be able to explain the risks versus the benefits in your dog's and cat's specific case.
How much will my dog or cat's X-rays or CT scan cost?
The cost of your dog's or cat's X-rays will be determined by a variety of factors, including the size of your pet, the area being X-rayed, whether sedation was used, the type of clinic, where your veterinary clinic is located, and more. If you are concerned about the cost of your cat or dog's X-rays, consult with your veterinarian first.
CT scans are identical. The cost will vary depending on the services required for your pet.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. Please make an appointment with your vet for an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition.