Your veterinarian may recommend an ultrasound to investigate:

• Vomiting or ongoing digestive issues
• Abdominal pain
• Liver, kidney or bladder disease
• Heart conditions
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fluid build-up within the abdomen
• Masses or abnormalities affecting internal organs

Following a thorough examination, we’ll discuss whether an ultrasound is the most appropriate next step for your pet.

Most pets are admitted to the hospital for a short stay while their ultrasound is performed. Unless your pet is being seen as an emergency, we usually ask that they arrive without breakfast, as some patients may require mild sedation.

The area being examined is clipped to allow good contact between the ultrasound probe and your pet’s skin. A water-based gel is then applied, and the probe is gently moved over the area to produce detailed images of the internal organs.

Ultrasound is a painless procedure, although some pets may experience slight discomfort from the pressure of the probe or require sedation if they are anxious or unable to remain still.

Unlike X-rays, which are best for examining bones and the chest, ultrasound provides detailed images of soft tissues and organs.

It allows us to assess the structure and function of organs such as the:

• Liver
• Kidneys
• Bladder
• Spleen
• Intestines
• Heart

These images help our veterinarians diagnose disease, monitor ongoing conditions and guide treatment decisions.