X-rays (radiographs) let us see your pet's bones, chest and abdomen. They help us find fractures, arthritis, swallowed objects, bladder stones, heart and lung changes and more.

X-rays are quick and painless. Some pets need mild sedation to stay still for clear images. Our doctors will review the images with you and explain what they show.

Signs Your Pet May Need X-Rays

Your vet may recommend X-rays to find the cause of a problem or to check on a known condition. Common reasons include:

  • Limping or stiffness that doesn't go away, or a possible broken bone
  • Vomiting or a painful belly, especially if your pet may have swallowed a toy, bone or other object
  • Coughing or trouble breathing
  • Straining to urinate or blood in the urine
  • An injury such as a fall or being hit by a car
  • Monitoring heart disease, arthritis or a healing fracture

If your pet is struggling to breathe, can't put weight on a leg after an injury or may have swallowed something harmful, call or come in right away.

Are X-Rays Safe for Your Pet?

Veterinary X-rays use a very small amount of radiation for a short time, and the benefits of a clear diagnosis usually far outweigh the risk. Protective gear and careful positioning help limit exposure for everyone in the room. Pregnant pets can usually have X-rays when needed, and your vet will consider the timing.

Sometimes your vet will take more than one view, or recommend repeat X-rays later, to see how a problem is changing over time. If X-rays don't show enough detail about soft tissue organs, your vet may suggest an ultrasound as a next step. Together, these tools help your vet find answers and choose the right treatment.

Questions about X-Rays?

Call us or book an appointment online, and our team will help you decide on the next step for your pet.

X-Rays: Frequently Asked Questions

Does my pet need to be sedated for X-rays?
Not always. Many pets lie still with gentle support. Your vet may recommend mild sedation if your pet is painful, anxious or wiggly, since it keeps them comfortable and helps produce clear images on the first try.
Can I stay with my pet during X-rays?
Usually not. To limit radiation exposure, pets are typically positioned by the veterinary team while owners wait nearby. Your vet will review the images with you afterward and explain what they show.
Can X-rays show cancer in pets?
X-rays can reveal masses, bone changes and signs of spread to the lungs, but they can't always confirm cancer on their own. Your vet may recommend ultrasound, a needle sample or a biopsy for a diagnosis.
Should my pet fast before X-rays?
For some abdominal X-rays or if sedation is likely, your vet may ask you to withhold food for several hours. For an injury or emergency, come in right away. Our team will give you specific instructions when you schedule.

Ready to schedule a visit?

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