Ultrasound

What Is a Pet Ultrasound?

An ultrasound is a noninvasive imaging technique that can be used on pets. To perform an ultrasound on your pet, a small, hand-held probe is moved gently across your pet’s skin to capture images of the inside of their body.

The probe directs a narrow beam of high-frequency sound waves to the area of interest. These sound waves bounce off of internal structures and reflect back to the probe. This is converted to a two-dimensional image which may then be reviewed on the machine’s monitor.

Why Would a Pet Need an Ultrasound?

Ultrasounds produce real-time images of what’s happening inside your pet’s body. They provide detailed views of many of the body’s organs, including the kidneys, stomach, spleen, liver, and gallbladder, making them one of the best diagnostic tests available.

We typically recommend ultrasounds when we need more information to explain abdominal abnormalities observed in lab test results, X-rays, or physical exams. When used with other diagnostic tools, an ultrasound can help vets identify internal problems like blockages, soft tissue damage, and tumors.

Is an Ultrasound Safe for My Pet?

An ultrasound is a safe, pain-free procedure for your pet. Unlike X-rays, ultrasounds do not use radiation.

How Do I Prepare My Pet for an Ultrasound?

We advise owners to withhold food from their pets for at least 12 hours before the ultrasound so we can capture more precise images. Water is typically allowed at all times.

Once you arrive for the ultrasound appointment, the veterinary staff might shave your pet’s fur in the area where they’ll be placing the probe. Shaving the fur allows for closer contact with the skin, which can help produce clearer images.

Pet Ultrasound Services Near You

Pet owners in the Kronenwetter area can trust Kronenwetter Veterinary Care for pet ultrasound services. Contact us to learn more and set up an appointment.