Wellness Care for Every Age and Stage
One of the most powerful tools in veterinary diagnostics is the CT scan, also called a computed tomography scan. This state-of-the-art pet technology allows us at Sequoyah Animal Hospital in Soddy Daisy, TN to obtain highly detailed images of your pet’s internal structures. These scans give us valuable insights that might not be visible with traditional X-rays or ultrasound. Our skilled staff uses CT scanning to diagnose many health conditions in suffering pets.
Understanding CT Scans for Cats and Dogs
A pet CT scan combines X-ray technology with computer processing to create cross-sectional images of your pet’s body. Unlike a traditional X-ray, which captures a flat, two-dimensional image, a CT scan produces multiple detailed images from different angles, which are then compiled into a 3-D view of the area being examined. This allows veterinarians to see tissues, bones, and organs with much greater clarity.
At Sequoyah Animal Hospital, we perform CT scans for pets using advanced equipment designed specifically for veterinary care. During the procedure, your pet will be comfortably positioned on the CT scanner. They will need to be placed under anesthesia so that they remain still, which is necessary to produce clear images. Our trained staff carefully monitors your pet throughout the entire process for their safety.
Once the scan is complete, our veterinarians will review the images and use them to diagnose any underlying issues or abnormalities.
CT scans are often critical in identifying problems that may not be detectable through other diagnostic methods.
With the results, we can create a more precise and effective treatment plan.
Why Your Pet May Need Computed Tomography
There are several reasons why your pet may require a CT scan. These scans are commonly recommended for more complex cases or when we need to gather more information than what can be provided by traditional diagnostic tools. Some of the most common reasons include:
- Head and Brain Injuries: CT scans are highly effective in detecting issues such as brain tumors, swelling, or trauma that may affect the head or central nervous system.
- Nasal or Sinus Problems: Chronic nasal discharge, sinus infections, or growths in the nasal passages can be evaluated in great detail with a CT scan.
- Orthopedic Injuries: For pets with unexplained lameness or joint issues, a CT scan can provide a more in-depth look at bone fractures, joint abnormalities, or ligament injuries.
- Mass or Tumor Detection: A CT scan is an invaluable tool for identifying tumors or masses within the body, showing their size, location, and spread.
- Spinal Conditions: If your pet is experiencing back pain or mobility issues, a CT scan can reveal spinal cord injuries, herniated discs, or other vertebral problems.
If your pet is experiencing any of the conditions listed above, or if other diagnostic tools have not provided clear answers, a CT scan for pets in Soddy Daisy may be the next step in their care plan. Contact Sequoyah Animal Hospital at (423) 332-0979 today to learn more about our CT scanning services or to schedule a consultation.