IMAGING: X-RAY AND ULTRASOUND

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Ultrasound is a non-invasive way of taking a look at the inside of the body.  It is often used in conjunction with x-rays for optimal assessment.  

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We recommend imaging for cats and dogs with changes in lab tests

(liver, kidneys, pancreas, bladder) to better assess what the inside of your pet looks like... bones, lungs, heart, abdomen, etc.  ​We can even use the ultrasound to guide a tiny needle into very small sites if we need to collect a sample for additional testing.

 

We frequently perform abdominal x-rays and ultrasounds

on cats and dogs with inconclusive lab tests, looking for

hidden signs of disease like inflammatory bowel disease,

potential tumors,foreign bodies, bladder stones, gall bladder

stones, and pancreatitis.

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We are able to submit these images to a board certified

specialist for further evaluation if needed.

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Ultrasound can also be used to evaluate pets with for heart disease. In fact, a cardiac ultrasound is better at detecting heart disease in cats than an x-ray is. X-rays are still valuable in screening for an enlarged heart and signs of heart failure (fluid in or around the lungs).

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                                    Cats and dogs that have an abdominal ultrasound 
                                    performed will likely have their belly shaved to allow for
                                    better imaging... We need to apply a gel to the skin for

                                    best contact with the ultrasound probe to deliver and

                                    receive the sound waves that create the image.

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Most pets don't need any sedation or pain medication, but if

their abdomen is painful, if they have arthritis, it hurts lay a

certain way, or if we need to collect samples, rest assured that

we will make them as comfortable as possible during the

procedure and administer pain meds and sedation as needed.