CT Imaging

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.