How are cats x rayed? There are many benefits of this simple procedure. It is quick, non-invasive, and produces minimal discomfort. This type of diagnostic test can help veterinarians find various health issues, including a hairball. Your veterinarian may also recommend sedation during this procedure. Whether your pet requires an x-ray is a personal choice, but it is best to follow the advice of a vet to ensure that your cat is comfortable during the procedure.
Non-invasive
X-rays are one of the most common non-invasive veterinary procedures. They use electromagnetic waves to produce pictures of your kitty’s body parts. The controlled beam of radiation passes through your cat’s body and falls on a plate or film, casting a shadow on them. Dense tissues absorb more radiation than soft tissue, so soft tissue appears shades of grey while air-filled lungs are almost black. X-rays are the oldest form of medical imaging, dating back to 1895 when Wilhelm Rontgen discovered this technique.
Quick
In some cases, a simple x-ray will be enough to diagnose your cat’s problem, but in most cases a full MRI or CT scan will be required. For these tests, your cat must be heavily sedated or under general anesthesia. MRI scanners are not equipped to allow humans in the room holding your cat while it is under the x-ray. They must lie motionless and perfectly positioned in the scanner.
Cost
The cost of cat x rays varies depending on how many and what types of x-rays are needed and which veterinarian you visit. If you’re visiting a specialist, the cost will be more since they’re more advanced and designed to capture a clear image of the affected area. Some specialists like neurosurgeons or veterinary dentists require these x-rays. You’ll want to make sure the vet you choose is highly rated so that you can feel comfortable with the quality of care your cat receives.
Results
A chest x-ray can give your veterinarian important information about your cat’s health. Unlike a regular x-ray, which only shows the outside, this procedure can also reveal internal structures. The chest x-ray can be useful in detecting fractures, adenomas, tumors, and fluid accumulations inside the body. It also helps your vet determine whether your cat is suffering from a heart condition.
Barium series x-rays
A barium series x-ray is a common diagnostic procedure for gastrointestinal disease in cats. The procedure involves administering a liquid barium to your cat, and taking radiographs of it at intervals of about 24 hours. These x-rays show outlines of the gastrointestinal tract, as well as foreign bodies, ulcerations, and tumors. While ultrasound is replacing this procedure in many practices, barium studies are still a valuable diagnostic tool for many veterinarians.
MRI
MRI for cats is a diagnostic imaging technique that uses radio frequency waves to detect changes in body tissues. The MRI for cats requires many repetitions of pulses and subsequent emissions and digital feedback. Cats can undergo MRI scans only if they are healthy or have certain medical conditions. Cats must be completely still for this procedure. They may also be given a range of other laboratory tests such as blood tests and electroencephalograms. There are few institutions that offer this service, and they may have a long wait time.
CT scans
A cat CT scan is different from a human CT scan in several ways. While a CT scan can provide a more detailed image than x-rays, it cannot completely replace a chest x-ray. However, it can be useful in situations where an x-ray just doesn’t reveal enough information. Cats should only undergo a CT scan if they are suffering from a serious condition and the vet has ruled out other medical options.