X-Ray

X-ray beams pass through some tissues but will be blocked by others. This helps to create an image where soft tissues appear grey, air appears black, and more dense matter such as bone and metal will appear white.

Taking an x-ray on an animal is a non-invasive procedure in itself. However, sedation tends to be used in order to reduce the animal’s anxiety. It can also help to reduce any pain experienced by the animal if the injured area needs to be maneuvered to be viewable on the x-ray images. Sedation also ensures that the pet does not need to be further restrained and helps to achieve much clearer imagery than if the pet was moving around.

Here at Paws in the City, we use digital X-rays which produce extremely high-quality images. These digital images can quickly be viewed as there is no need to print them onto film.

The speed at which they can be produced is also very helpful if there is an emergency, as it allows the vet to investigate the internal tissues and make a diagnosis.

They also help to reduce our impact on the environment, as chemicals are not required to produce the imagery, and there are no physical copies that may eventually need to be disposed of.

The digital aspect of the x-rays also allows us to easily share the imagery with specialists if further investigation is required.

X-rays can be used for any of the below presenting problems:

• Orthopaedic issues, for example fractures, breaks, deformities and lameness
• Tumours, cysts and stones – x-rays can be used to view changes in the size, shape and position
• Monitoring heart, lung and other organ conditions
• Assessment of the pet’s abdomen if experiencing bloating, pain, vomiting or diarrhoea.
• Diagnosing and monitoring dental problems

Often a pet does not require any preparation for their x-ray as it is carried out when a pet is brought in with an issue that needs to be looked at during the appointment. However, if your pet is schedule in for an x-ray that requires anaesthetic, your vet may advise changes to their feeding routine in the lead up to the appointment.

Our vets will examine your pet and discuss the x-ray procedure with you.

Just as with humans, x-rays are perfectly safe for your pets when used occasionally as a diagnostic tool. Radiation is involved in the use of x-rays, but only very high doses can cause damage, and so is not a problem when used rarely.

If you have any concerns regarding using x-ray imaging on your pet, then please speak to our vets who can discuss the procedure, risks and benefits specific to your pet’s case.