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Ultrasound examination in a dog or cat: indications and procedure. How much does it cost?

Ultrasonography of abdominal cavity is a non-invasive imaging examination that is very useful for diagnosis and health monitoring. It enables precise imaging of internal organs, including the liver, spleen, and kidneys, as well as their structure and any potential abnormalities.

This test is extremely accurate and can detect even very small alterations. It is based on the application of an ultrasonic emitter and receiver to allow the body to be examined without causing any injury while the structure of the organs is checked. The test allows the veterinarian to access various structures because multiple probes can be utilized

This service is available in Pethelp packages. Package prices start at 59 PLN/month

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Abdominal ultrasound scan in a dog / cat – indications 

Unsettling urinary and digestive issues are a sign that such an examination is necessary. These include things such as:

    • Abnormal abdominal pain / tenderness
    • Abdominal contour enlargement
    • Long-term diarrhea
    • Prolonged vomiting
    • Gastrointestinal mucosal irritation suspected
    • Suspicion of an organ tumor or control of the existing ones
    • Assessment of organ parenchyma to assess their efficiency
    • Suspected renal failure
    • Suspicion of pancreatitis
    • Suspicion of bladder wall changes, kidney stones

    Abdominal ultrasound scan in a dog / cat - contraindications 

    This examination is non-invasive, so it can even be performed on young animals and pregnant animals. Demodicosis, scabies, and other skin conditions that can transmit to other patients may be the primary contraindications, but if an ultrasound examination is required to save the patient's life, the veterinarian will find a way to overcome these inconvenience.

    Abdominal ultrasonography procedure in a dog or cat. 

    First, a medical interview is conducted if the veterinarian performing the ultrasound scan is not the one who ordered the test or if there has never been a prior appointment. The questioning will concentrate on the reason behind this additional exam and any previous imaging testing. For the examination to be as precise as possible, patients with thick coats might need to be shaved. The veterinarian will apply a layer of gel to your pet's skin in order to conduct the imaging test. Don't be concerned if your pet licks the abdomen after the examination because the majority of ultrasound gels are safe for animal patients. After the visit, the doctor provides a detailed description and evaluation of the anatomical structures of all the most important organs and systems, including the bladder, kidneys, liver, spleen, kidney pelvis, stomach, duodenum, pancreas, intestinal wall, kidneys and testicles in males, and ovaries and uterus in females, if the animal was not castrated.

    FAQ

    • What is the price of an abdominal ultrasound for a dog or cat?

      An abdominal ultrasound examination costs from 90 to 200 PLN. It depends, among other things, on the level of specialization of the veterinarian conducting the examination. Because each veterinary facility sets its own fees, it is a good idea to ask about the cost of a service before the visit.

    • How long does it take to perform an abdominal ultrasound on a dog or cat?

      An ultrasound scan takes 20 to 25 minutes.

    • How to prepare for a dog / cat's abdominal ultrasound?

      An ultrasound examination requires little preparation of the patient if we want to perform it as precisely as possible. It is recommended to examine your pet after a 6-hour fast in order to accurately evaluate the condition of the digestive system. It may be difficult to properly assess the gastric and intestinal walls if there are gas bubbles or food present. In order to ensure that the urinary bladder is properly filled before the test, you should give your pet plenty of fluids. When the bladder is full, the epithelium covering the bladder can be carefully inspected for any potential abnormalities.

    Do you have any other questions?