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CT Scan

Computed tomography (CT) allows us to create highly detailed, three‑dimensional images of your pet using X‑rays. These advanced images are invaluable for diagnosing medical conditions and developing an effective treatment plan, whether for an ongoing health issue or an emergency injury.

When might your veterinarian recommend a CT SCAN for your pet?

Your pet may be referred to our clinic for a CT scan when standard X‑rays or ultrasound are not sufficient to fully evaluate the condition.

CT imaging is commonly recommended for oncology cases, including full staging of a tumor or guiding a biopsy, pre‑surgical planning, to precisely locate a mass and support a safer, more efficient surgical approach. Orthopedic and neurosurgical evaluations, providing accurate imaging for diagnosis and treatment planning. Detection of foreign bodies or lesions in areas where other diagnostic tools are limited, assessment of vascular diseases or abnormalities, often with the use of contrast agents, as well as a comprehensive evaluation of the lower urinary tract. These are just a few of the many situations in which CT imaging can offer critical diagnostic information.

What is the CT scan procedure?

Preparing your pet

During the CT scan procedure, patients must remain still; therefore, general anesthesia is administered to all pets. The patient must have fasted for 8-10 hours (not eaten) and abstained from water for 2 hours to avoid any complications of anesthesia. In addition, as tomography frequently requires the use of a contrast medium to enhance image quality, and is performed under general anesthesia, preliminary blood and blood chemistry panel of your pet is required.

CT SCAN procedure

Once the blood test is completed and anesthesia is administered, the pet is placed in the CT scanner. Then, the imaging technician, together with the anesthesiologist and assistant, continuously monitors the patient, maintaining direct visual contact through a lead‑glass window. Each scan typically lasts up to 30 seconds. The entire process, from the administration of anesthesia until the pet wakes up, takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour.

Our clinic’s CT scan service includes:

  • General anesthesia for the patient.
  • Supportive fluid therapy during anesthesia, if required.
  • A complete CT examination.
  • Short-term hospitalization until the pet has fully recovered.
  • A detailed radiology report with interpretation of the scan findings.
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