An x-ray is an image that resembles a negative of an old-fashioned photograph. It displays different body structures in various shades of grey and white. Different types of tissues absorb different amounts of x-rays. Denser tissues absorb more radiation than other body structures, so they appear white. Pneumonia and arthritis are other examples of conditions that require x-rays.
X-rays are useful for diagnosing fractures
X-rays can diagnose broken bones and other injuries. But they are not useful for identifying soft tissue injuries. MRIs can provide accurate images of internal body structures and are useful for determining whether fractures are present. MRIs do not expose your pet to radiation, but can reveal the cause of an injury. Therefore, MRIs are not recommended for every fracture. In some cases, MRIs may be necessary for other reasons.
Foreign objects inside your pet’s body
There are several steps to take if you suspect that a foreign object has lodged in your pet’s body. The first step is to consult a veterinarian. They will be able to determine whether the object has become lodged in the intestines or is too large to pass on its own. Sometimes, the foreign object is visible and may not require immediate medical attention. Your veterinarian may advise waiting for it to pass on its own or recommend surgical removal.
Arthritis
An x-ray of your cat’s joints can help diagnose this painful condition. Cats are susceptible to arthritis, so your veterinarian will likely perform an X-ray to look for any signs of joint pain. Arthritis most often affects the hip, knee, ankle, and spine. If you suspect your cat has arthritis, you should see your veterinarian as soon as possible. Arthritis in cats is a common condition, but some types of the disease may be less apparent on the x-ray.
Pneumonia
A veterinarian may find evidence of pneumonia on your cat’s x-ray if your pet is coughing and has a fever. X-rays also provide an image of your pet’s lungs. A complete blood count (CBC) can also reveal pneumonia. Pneumonia in dogs and cats is typically characterized by an increase in neutrophils and white blood cells. Increased white blood cells are a sign of infection, but other causes can raise them as well, such as parasites or an allergic response.
Arthritis in cats
An x-ray is a diagnostic tool for evaluating the condition of a cat’s joints. Arthritis in cats is most commonly found in the hip and knee joints. The condition may be chronic, or it can occur suddenly, and in either case, the treatment should be prompt. Arthritis can be a painful condition for your cat, but the good news is that it’s treatable with the right treatment.
Osteoarthritis in cats
Radiographs of the joints of felines often confirm the presence of osteoarthritis. A physical exam and owner reports may also be indicative of the disease. To capture the best quality images, sedation may be required. Osteoarthritis in cats is a difficult disease to diagnose, but early detection can help reduce the pain of this condition and prevent its progression, leading to improved quality of life for senior cats.
