CT Scan for Your Pet, Cat Scan for Pets

CT scan for your pet, Cat Scan for pets and emergency vet in san jose.

Please reach us at if you cannot find an answer to your question.

What is a CT scan?

CT (Computed Tomography) scans utilize the advanced technology to create detailed cross-sectional images of the body. This imaging method is superior to traditional X-rays, allowing for greater precision and clarity in visualizing bones and internal organs. CT scans can also be reformatted to create 3D images. These scans are beneficial for examining bony structures, the lungs, and soft tissues such as the abdominal organs. Additionally, CT images can be enhanced by using intravenous contrast agents for further clarification.

How long does a CT scan take?

At our clinic, CT scans are performed quickly and efficiently, typically taking only 10-15 minutes. Although the procedure is painless, to ensure the highest quality images, light anesthesia is administered to keep your pet alive—our team of expert tailors. Our clinic performs CT scans each CT scan to minimize your pet's time under anesthesia, ensuring their comfort and safety.

What is contrast used for and is it safe?

At our clinic, the use of contrast agents during CT scans is carefully considered and administered by our experienced clinicians. The contrast is given intravenously to enhance the visibility of specific structures and aid in identifying the underlying cause of illness. It is beneficial in differentiating normal average from abnormal forms in the lungs, liver, spleen, and bones. The use of contrast agents in veterinary medicine is considered safe, and reactions to the injection are uncommon. Our trained nurses and doctors closely monitor each patient during the procedure to ensure their safety and well-being.

Who monitors my pet under anesthesia?

At our clinic, the safety and well-being of your beloved pet is our top priority. During the CT scan process, your pet will be constantly monitored by our certified anesthesia nurses, sour certified anesthesia nurses will continuously monitor your specifically trained in caring for patients undergoing CT scans. They will closely monitor your pet's vital signs, such as breathing, heart rate, pulse oxygenation, and blood pressure. Routine blood work and chest X-rays are performed before the CT scan to minimize any risks associated with anesthesia. A highly skilled radiology technician performs CT studies under the guidance of a radiologist. The radiologist is involved in every step of the CT scan, including patient positioning, monitoring, study design, and interpretation. This ensures that high-quality diagnostic images are acquired in the shortest time possible, minimizing anesthetic risks. Our team of experts works together to provide the highest care for your furry family member.

When are CT scans available and how soon can I schedule one?

At ARCHVET Animal Hospital, we offer convenient and timely CT scan services for your pet. Regularly scheduled CT scans are available Monday through Friday, and we also provide emergency services on weekends, evenings, and holidays. If your pet is experiencing an emergency, please get in touch with your primary veterinarian or our emergency service at (669) 230-5034.

When a CT scan is deemed necessary for your pet, we strive to perform the study as soon as possible, often on the same day of your appointment. Our top priority is ensuring that your pet is in the best possible health before undergoing anesthesia, and routine bloodwork and chest X-rays are performed beforehand.

It is important to note that pets must be fasted for anesthesia. This is crucial in preventing complications such as aspiration pneumonia during anesthesia. If the CT scan is scheduled for the same day as your appointment, please refrain from giving your pet food or water from 10 pm the night before. If your pet has special needs, such as diabetes or renal disease, please consult your primary veterinarian before the appointment.

When will I have the results of my CT?

At ARCHVET Animal Hospital and Urgent Care, we understand your pet is a beloved family member. We offer high-quality CT scans to provide the best care for your furry companion. CT scans use advanced technology similar to X-rays to create detailed images of your pet's body, providing a clearer picture of any underlying issues.

Our experienced team of emergency veterinarians, radiologists, and certified anesthesia nurses work together to ensure your pet's safest and most efficient CT scan experience. We are available for regular CT scans Monday through Friday and on an emergency basis on weekends, evenings, and holidays.

Suppose your primary veterinarian or the Emergency Service at ARCHVET determines that a CT scan is necessary for your pet. In that case, we can schedule the procedure as quickly as the same day. To ensure your pet's safety and well-being, we perform routine bloodwork and chest X-rays before the CT scan, and your pet must be fasted for anesthesia.

Our radiologist reviews the CT the same day, and the results are typically available the same day. After the CT scan, our specialist will discuss the initial results with you and provide any further diagnostic or treatment options based on the findings. Trust us to provide the highest level of care for your pet. Contact us at (669) 230-5034 for emergency needs or to schedule a CT scan.

CT SCAN FAQS