
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?
Can I stay with my pet during X-rays?
Can X-rays show cancer in pets?
Should my pet fast before X-rays?
Ready to schedule a visit?
Book online, call us, or walk in during open hours.


