When a physical examination does not give us enough information about a pet’s condition, advanced imaging can give our crew a clearer view of internal organs, bones, and other body structures. At MarQueen Veterinary Specialty Group, we offer digital X-rays, ultrasound, and computed tomography (CT) to support accurate diagnosis and care for dogs and cats. The imaging approach we recommend depends on the examination findings and each pet’s individual needs.
Why we may recommend advanced imaging for a dog or cat
We may recommend advanced imaging when a pet’s condition calls for more diagnostic information than a physical examination alone can provide. Imaging helps us evaluate internal organs, bones, and body systems, giving our crew clearer information to guide diagnosis and care.
At MarQueen Veterinary Specialty Group, our advanced imaging services include digital radiography, ultrasound, and CT. Our doctors and staff have experience operating specialized imaging equipment and interpreting the images we obtain. A board-certified radiologist assesses all of our radiographic and CT scan images and provides a detailed report on their assessment. This helps us use the available information carefully as we evaluate a pet’s condition.
What digital X-rays can help us evaluate
Our digital radiography provides high-quality diagnostic X-rays that help us evaluate a pet’s internal structures. It is particularly suited to assessing bones and skeletal abnormalities, while also providing high-quality soft-tissue images.
Our digital radiography unit captures images in seconds and transmits them to a computer for immediate evaluation by our board-certified veterinary radiologist. We commonly use digital radiology to help diagnose or evaluate:
- Orthopedic conditions
- Bone fractures
- Gastrointestinal foreign bodies
- Tumors
- Pregnancy
- Heart failure
- Organ enlargement
- Pneumonia
An X-ray does not replace a complete veterinary evaluation. Instead, it is one diagnostic tool we may use to better understand what may be happening inside a pet’s body.
What is a CT scan for dogs and cats?
Our CT scanner creates detailed cross-sectional images of a pet’s body. We use a narrow X-ray beam that is directed at the pet and rotated quickly around the body. The resulting images contain more detail than digital X-rays.
We may find CT helpful when we need to evaluate soft-tissue or bony lesions identified during a clinical examination or on digital X-rays. The images can show a lesion’s precise location and its relationship to nearby structures, giving us important diagnostic detail.
When we may use CT imaging
We may use CT imaging when a clinical examination, ultrasound or digital X-rays identify a soft-tissue or bony lesion that needs further evaluation. Because CT images provide added detail, they can help us clarify the lesion’s location and relationship to surrounding structures.
We often use CT after a tumor diagnosis to determine the tumor’s location and help our surgeon plan a surgical approach. We can also use it to check other organs for metastasis. Whether CT is appropriate depends on the pet’s condition and the findings of the veterinary evaluation.
How digital X-rays and CT scans differ
Digital X-rays and CT scans both provide diagnostic imaging, but they offer different types of information. Digital radiography is well suited to evaluating bones and skeletal abnormalities and can also provide high-quality soft-tissue images. CT creates cross-sectional images with more detail than digital X-rays, which may help us evaluate identified soft-tissue or bony lesions.
Our crew may recommend one imaging option or another based on the information needed to evaluate a pet. In some cases, digital X-rays may identify findings that lead us to recommend a more detailed CT evaluation.
Ultrasound as part of our advanced imaging services
Ultrasound is another advanced imaging option available at MarQueen Veterinary Specialty Group. As with digital X-rays and CT, the imaging method we recommend depends on the information needed after evaluating a pet’s individual condition.
What to expect from our radiology services
When a pet needs advanced imaging, our goal is to obtain useful diagnostic information that supports accurate care. At MarQueen Veterinary Specialty Group in Upland, CA, we offer digital X-rays, ultrasound, and CT imaging, with interpretation by a veterinary specialist.
Imaging is part of a broader veterinary evaluation. We consider examination findings and use diagnostic imaging to better understand internal structures, identify relevant findings, and help inform the next steps in care.
Contact us or visit our radiology service page to learn more about CT scans, ultrasound, and digital X-rays for dogs and cats.
Medical disclaimer: This article provides general educational information and is not a substitute for an examination, diagnosis, or treatment recommendation from a veterinarian. A veterinarian should evaluate your pet’s individual condition and recommend appropriate care.
