CT Imaging

Key Takeaways

• Computed Tomography (CT) scanning creates detailed 3D images of a pet's tissue, organs and bone structures to help diagnose problems and plan treatment.
• CT scans help identify issues including tumours, kidney stones, abscesses, circulatory problems, head and spinal injuries, abnormal bone growth and injuries to internal organs.
• Vets also use CT imaging to plan procedures such as biopsies and growth deformity corrections.
• CT scans involve a slightly higher level of radiation exposure than other imaging techniques, but the diagnostic benefits greatly outweigh the risks.
• Pets are sedated or given a general anaesthetic during a CT scan so they stay completely still, and the scan itself is painless.
• Pets can normally return home later the same day after their CT scan.
• Any anaesthetic carries a very small risk, but complications are extremely rare and the Medivet team takes every step to keep your pet safe.
• A number of Medivet clinics have CT scanners in-house in dedicated diagnostic imaging suites.
• Medivet may be able to transport your pet to the most suitable clinic for a CT.
• Contact your local Medivet clinic for any questions about CT scanning or to register for CT services.

CT scanners give us highly detailed images of your pet’s tissue, organs and bone structures.

They’re invaluable in identifying many problems that may affect your pet, such as bone growth defects, heart problems and tumours on organs.

When do we use them?

CT scanners are used to identify many injuries and illnesses, as well as helping vets plan certain procedures such as biopsies or growth deformity corrections.

They may be used to help diagnose:

• Circulatory problems
• Tumours
• Kidney stones
• Abscesses
• Head and spinal injuries
• Abnormal bone growth (e.g. elbow dysplasia)
• Injuries to internal organs

Are there any risks with a CT scan?

Although there’s a slightly elevated level of radiation exposure compared to other imaging techniques, the benefits of a CT scan greatly outweigh the risks.

Your pet needs to be completely still for the image to be accurate, so they’ll need to be sedated or anaesthetised during the scan. The scan is totally painless, and pets can normally return home later in the day. Any anesthetic carries a very small risk, but complications are extremely rare and we’ll do everything we can to keep your pet safe.

Getting a scan at Medivet  

A number of our practices have CT scanners in-house in dedicated diagnostic imaging suites.

If your pet needs a scan, we’ll be able to transport them to the most suitable practice in one of our veterinary ambulances.

If you have any questions about CT scanning, contact your local practice who will be happy to help.