When your beloved companion has diagnostic imaging it can cause several feelings and result in many questions. Knowing what to expect can go a long way in helping you relax. Here, our Citrus Heights vets share some information about ultrasounds for dogs and cats, including what they are and what you can expect.
Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory at Family Friends Veterinary Hospital
Our pets are prone to several illnesses and conditions, such as tumors, cysts, or ingesting foreign objects that can cause internal blockages. Ultrasounds are a diagnostic imaging technique that uses sound waves to generate real-time images of your cat or dog's body. Veterinary ultrasounds are quick, non-invasive, and can be used to diagnose and evaluate various internal organ problems in your pet. They are also helpful for monitoring your pet's pregnancy.
What is an ultrasound machine?
An ultrasound machine produces images of the internal structures, allowing your vet to examine areas that can't be seen with the naked eye. To create these images, the ultrasound machine sends out high-frequency sound waves, which reflect off body structures. The data collected by these waves is then sent to a computer which shows the image.
Is radiation used in veterinary ultrasounds?
As we mentioned above, ultrasounds use sound waves to produce images. This means that no radiation is needed during the procedure.
Reasons Your Pet May Need An Ultrasound
Our vets in Citrus Heights can perform ultrasounds to examine your pet's organs and detect any blockages, tumors, or other medical issues. At Family Friends Veterinary Hospital, we have an in-house veterinary diagnostic laboratory where our vets use diagnostic tools, including ultrasounds, to diagnose accurately. With the help of these tools, we can identify your pet's medical problems and offer the most effective treatment possible."
Types of Ultrasounds
Your vet may perform these two types of ultrasounds:
Emergency Ultrasound
If your pet is in an emergency, the ultrasound will typically concentrate on the abdomen and chest areas to quickly determine whether your dog or cat is experiencing a serious internal hemorrhage (bleeding) or pneumothorax (a condition in which gas or air accumulates in the area surrounding the lungs). This can help us diagnose the problem quickly and plan for effective treatment.
Echocardiogram
Cardiac ultrasounds, or echocardiograms, are detailed scans that allow us to closely examine the heart and its surrounding structures, including the pericardial sac. They help us determine whether the heart is functioning properly or if there are any abnormalities. Although echocardiograms are generally painless, they involve taking various measurements and calculations.
If your pet has recently been diagnosed with a heart murmur or is showing signs of heart disease, they may be referred to a specialist for an echocardiogram. This test is particularly useful in cases where an organ shows abnormalities. An ultrasound-guided biopsy can be performed to obtain a tissue sample for further examination under a microscope. This biopsy aids in making a diagnosis in many instances.
Conditions Commonly Diagnosed & Monitored Using Ultrasound
Heart Problems
Suppose your dog or cat has been diagnosed with a heart condition. In that case, your vet may refer you to a specialist for a heart ultrasound or echocardiogram to help evaluate the condition and function of your pet's heart and to search for any abnormalities.
Abnormal Blood or Urine Test Results
If your veterinarian discovers any anomalies or abnormalities in your pet's urine tests or blood samples, they may recommend that your companion get an ultrasound to gain a better picture of their internal organs like their lymph nodes, kidneys, bladder, and more to try and identify what is causing the issue.
Diagnostic Imaging of Soft Tissue Injuries & Illness
Ultrasound technology allows for detailed examination of various soft tissues, including commonly examined areas:
- Eyes
- Tendons
- Ligaments
- Fetal viability and development
- Thyroid glands
If abnormal tissue is spotted during an ultrasound, the vet may also use the ultrasound to help collect tissue samples from the affected area.
Ultrasound-Assisted Tissue Collection & Biopsies
Samples are typically collected using these methods:
- Tru-Cut biopsies
- Ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration
If your vet performs an ultrasound-assisted tissue collection, your pet will likely be sedated. We can perform biopsies in a less invasive manner with ultrasounds than with surgeries.
How To Prepare Your Dog or Cat for Their Ultrasound
Different ultrasounds may require specific preparations for your pet's body. It is essential to consult your vet for specific guidelines to help prepare your pet for the ultrasound.
For some ultrasounds, like abdominal ultrasounds, you may need to withhold food and water from your pet for 8 to 12 hours before the procedure. This will allow for a better examination of the abdominal area. In the case of bladder ultrasounds, it is advisable not to allow your cat or dog to urinate for 3 to 6 hours before the procedure so that the bladder can be adequately assessed.
The area being examined will typically be shaved to ensure clear images can be obtained. Although most pets remain still and cooperative during the ultrasound, some may require sedation to help them stay calm.
If biopsies are necessary after the ultrasound, your pet will require a stronger sedative or anesthesia to help them remain calm and prevent complications. Your vet will inform you if this is necessary.
Is anesthesia required during an ultrasound examination?
Anesthesia is not usually used on pets having an ultrasound. This is because the procedure is non-invasive and painless. If your furry friend is easily frightened or restless, your vet may use a sedative.
What happens after a veterinary ultrasound?
Your veterinarians can conduct real-time ultrasound scans, which means you will receive the results right away. However, in certain cases, the ultrasound images may need to be sent to a veterinary radiologist for further examination, which may result in a delay of a few days before the outcome is determined.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.