Why Your Pet Might Need an MRI or CT Scan

An MRI or CT provides your veterinary professional with internal images of your pet. This can be extremely useful, even vital, in the correct diagnosis of certain conditions, which may not be apparent from external examination. For treatment to be effective, it is necessary to see exactly what is happening inside the body, so that the treatment can be targeted and exact. Both MRI and CT imaging scans look inside the body in more detail than an x-ray. An X-ray shows the bones and is useful for showing breaks or fractures of bones. However, the detailed imaging from scans can show much more. A CT (computed tomography) imaging scan is primarily used for issues related to soft tissue, organs and muscles or bones.CT scans are painless and noninvasive and are generally recommended when traditional X-rays have been inconclusive. Whereas an MRI imaging scan gives a more detailed look at the soft tissue and is excellent for investigating the central nervous system and the brain. The advantage of imaging scans is that they allow your veterinary professional to see what is happening within the body, without having to operate, it is non-invasive and painless.

What Are MRI and CT Scans for Pets?

Both CT and MRI imaging scans allow vets to see in great detail what is happening inside the body of your small animal. For example, a dog presenting with a limp might have a clear x-ray, showing no damage to the bone, but a diagnostic imaging CT could reveal a tear to a ligament, which can then be treated. A cat presenting with seizures could have an MRI, which could show a small tumour on the brain, which can then be treated. Without this visibility, it can be hard to offer good and effective treatment to your small animal.

What’s the Difference Between Veterinary CT Vs MRI Scan?

A CT scan is quicker and can often be carried out with sedation rather than a general anaesthetic. A CT is often the next step after an inconclusive X-ray as it will show organs, soft tissues and bone in more detail than an X-ray. An MRI gives clearer imaging of soft tissue damage and is often used for the diagnosis of neurological conditions and spinal or CNS problems. An MRI can be used after a CT scan if the CT is inconclusive.

Common Reasons Your Pet Might Need an MRI or CT Scan

A scan is used for diagnostic imaging to provide vets with a clear view of what is happening inside your pet’s body. Your vet may suggest an imaging scan in a number of different circumstances.

• Neurological Issues – if your dog or cat is having seizures, or exhibiting odd behaviours that could be due to issues within the brain
• Orthopaedic Problems – lameness where injury to the bone such as a fracture cannot be seen on X-ray. Suspected tear or damage to the ligaments.
• Cancer Diagnosis – if your vet suspects cancer, or wants to rule it out, a diagnostic imaging scan can be extremely useful
• Internal Injuries or Abnormalities – if your dog is exhibiting issues with passing urine, and there appears to be problems in the bladder or kidneys, then a scan can help
• Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) Problems – cats and dogs are prone to ingesting foreign objects which may become stuck and cause complications.

How MRI and CT Scans Help with Diagnosis and Treatment

Being able to use imaging as a diagnostic tool, is an excellent asset for vets. It can be hard to diagnose animals, in no small part since they can’t tell you where it is hurting, and an imaging scan can give clear and precise insight into what is going on in the body. By correctly diagnosing the problem, the treatment can be more specific and targeted, allowing better results in the long term. Diagnostic imaging can also be used to see if treatment is working, for example, if a dog has a tumour in the brain, repeated scanning a suitable intervals will show your vet whether the tumour has reduced in size. This can be useful for your vet to help decide on the best course of treatment moving forward for your small animal.

How Safe Are MRI and CT Scans for Pets?

A CT scan can often be carried out with heavy sedation, as it is a relatively quick process. An MRI scan will require a general anaesthetic which does carry an element of risk. However, the alternative to an imaging scan is often simply opening up an animal to see what is happening, which poses a far greater risk, than a non-invasive scan. Your vet will discuss the risks of a general anaesthetic with you. A standard healthy dog has a lower risk than an overweight or elderly dog or a dog with breathing difficulties.

How to Prepare Your Pet For an MRI and CT Scan

Your veterinarian will let you know what you need to do before your pet has their imaging scan. If they are having an MRI and require a general anaesthetic then they will need to not eat and drink beforehand, so follow the information regarding this. In general, keeping your pet happy and healthy is the best preparation.

What to Expect During the MRI or CT Scan Process

Your veterinarian will talk you through the process, and explain what they are going to do. If your dog or cat requires a general anaesthetic then they will need to remain at the vets for a longer period, as they will be monitored after they wake up to check that the effects have worn off before being allowed home. After the scan, your vet will examine the images and then discuss the findings with you.

NW Referrals Can Provide Diagnostic Imaging for Your Pet

Here at Northwest Referrals, we understand what your pets mean to you and we are committed to providing exceptional care to the animals that we treat. Our state-of-the-art facilities give us the tools for advanced diagnostics and surgery, and we welcome referrals from other vets, as well as directly from pet owners. Our friendly, helpful and compassionate team are always on hand to help you. To book your appointment today, click on our 'Book A Referral' button.

‍