Feline Diagnostic Imaging

Feline Diagnostic Imaging

At La Jolla Veterinary Hospital, we use diagnostic imaging tools to get accurate information about a cat's health condition. The non-invasive tools include X-rays (radiographs), ultrasounds, CT scans, and MRIs.

They come in handy in making an accurate diagnosis and informed treatment decisions. There are different situations where diagnostic imaging on your cat is necessary, and here is more information about that.

When We Use Diagnostic Imaging

After examining your sick cat, we may require more information to make an accurate diagnosis. Diagnostic imaging can help us come up with the best treatment plan. Though an X-ray can lead to a precise diagnosis, an ultrasound may offer a more thorough inspection of the area.

The imaging can help detect issues ranging from ingested objects and fractures to chronic heart conditions. If your cat is having difficulty breathing or vomiting, imaging can help determine the problem.

Types of Feline Diagnostic Imaging

There are different types of diagnostic tools to help with treating felines. X-rays or radiographs are usually the first diagnostic imaging tool used. They use a focused beam that takes internal body images to allow us to see the body's inner workings.

Ultrasounds can complement X-ray images and help the vet see and evaluate the organs. MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is rare in vet medicine but can help diagnose neurological conditions. CT scans help obtain images for 3-D modeling.

Safety of Diagnostic Imaging

Most pet owners wonder if diagnostic imaging is a safe procedure. The procedure is safe and effective and is conducted after a thorough evaluation of the cat's health. We will determine the best tools to ensure an accurate diagnosis.

Using the tools allows vets to make an accurate diagnosis without resorting to invasive procedures or tests. Diagnostic imaging can show the extent of the disease, which helps with prognosis and creating the best treatment plan.

Diagnostic Imaging and Health Issues

Diagnostic imaging can help determine the cat's issues since we cannot observe some from the outside. The imaging provides an accurate picture of the feline's internal condition. So, if your cat has a broken bone or physical trauma, an X-ray can help determine the damage's extent.

An ultrasound can help determine what is causing the cat's vomiting or upset stomach. If your pet is looking unwell and you do not know the reason, diagnostic imaging can help determine the issue.

How to Decide If a Cat Needs Imaging

Whether or not your cat requires feline diagnostic imaging will depend on:

• The cat's history.

• The illness or health issue.

• The results of a physical exam.
  
  

If the cause of the problem is not determined after initial testing and lab work, it is vital to do diagnostic imaging.

We will determine the best action depending on the desired results since felines are good at hiding illness or pain. They can suffer for long before anyone realizes there is a problem. Hence, early detection and accurate diagnosis are vital for effective treatment and a better prognosis.

If your cat requires diagnostic imaging, our vet may recommend fasting, especially when dealing with stomach issues. We will make sure to medicate your cat to keep them calm during the imaging process.

For more on feline diagnostic imaging, visit La Jolla Veterinary Hospital at our office in La Jolla, California. Call (858) 454-6155 today to schedule an appointment.