Diagnostic Imaging

Sometimes when your pet is sick or injured, a CT or MRI scan may be the best way to evaluate their condition. These scans show what’s going on inside your pet’s body, allowing your vet to diagnose the problem and plan for any necessary treatment.

What Is a CT Scan and When Should Your Pet Have One?

A computed tomography (CT) scan is similar to a traditional X-ray. The primary difference is that CT scans use advanced technology to capture three-dimensional images, which show more detail than two-dimensional X-ray pictures.

CT scans are ideal for examining internal abnormalities, such as in organs, muscles or bones. If a patient has a tumor, for example, the CT scan helps our vets see precisely where it is and what’s around it so they can plan for surgery.

CT scans for dogs and cats are best for evaluating head, nasal and lung problems. A CT scan procedure typically takes about 45 minutes, from when the patient is put under to the time they wake up.

What Is an MRI Scan and When Should Your Pet Have One?

A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan is most often used to examine problems with the brain and spinal cord. Unlike X-rays and CT scans, MRI scans use radio waves and magnetic fields to create high-quality images of the scanned area.

If your dog or cat is having seizures, suffering from back problems, experiencing paralysis or exhibiting an unusual walking pattern, scheduling an MRI scan is likely the best way to help your vet determine what’s going on and how to treat the issue.

Your pet will be placed in a large, enclosed magnet for scanning, just like an MRI for a human. The process can take more than an hour to complete, so your pet will receive general anesthesia to undergo the scan.

Contact Metropolitan Veterinary Center About CT and MRI Scans for Your Dog or Cat

Metropolitan Veterinary Center is your source for pet CT and MRI scans in Chicago, Flordia, and the surrounding cities. You can count on us to listen to your concerns, find answers to challenging problems and ensure your pet receives the best care.