X-rays are also known as radiographs, and they are just one of the many ways our vets can see inside your pet and determine what’s going on. They can be used to give our vets a closer look at either soft or hard tissues. The end goal is always the same: gaining a clearer picture of what’s going on inside your pet so we can recommend proper treatment.
What X-Rays Can Diagnose
We use X-rays to diagnose all of the following:
- Broken Bones
- Osteoarthritis
- Spinal Problems
- Dislocated Bones
- Bone Cancer
- Heart Enlargement
- Pneumonia
- Asthma
- Cancer
- Foreign Bodies in the Stomach or Intestines
- Kidney Disease
- Bladder Stones
- Constipation
- Dental Problems
- And More
In addition to using X-rays as a diagnostic tool, we can also use them to monitor animals’ recovery after surgery or illness. We even use the X-rays to monitor bone growth in young animals.
When Your Pet Comes for X-Rays
We usually ask that you book your pet into our hospital for the day when he or she comes in for an X-ray, unless of course it is an emergency situation. Even though X-rays are not surgery, we often have to anaesthetise pets in order to get the clearest pictures. Sometimes pets have to be placed in uncomfortable positions, and at other times they may be anxious or simply wiggly. Because of the anaesthesia, we ask that you follow our recommendations for pre-surgical care, including fasting.
Here at Camvet, we use the highest-quality radiographic equipment to produce the best picture of what’s going on. Once the X-rays have been developed, your vet will go over the results with you and make plans for treatment. We’re here to answer all of your questions, so don’t worry – we’ll explain everything to you. Contact us today if you have any questions or suspect your pet may need care.