Cat and Dog Ultrasounds in La Crosse
Cat and dog ultrasound is a non-invasive, safe way to examine a pet’s abdominal organs and reproductive system using a handheld device. Unlike X-rays, it uses sound waves instead of radiation to produce an image, based on whether the sound waves are absorbed into the organs or are reflected back. The image is produced in real time and displayed on a monitor. Cat and dog ultrasounds can be performed alone or in conjunction with a blood test, physical exam, or X-rays.
Although an ultrasound can be performed without anesthesia, there are certain cases in which sedation is required, such as when a pet is uncomfortable in a certain position or unable to remain still for an extended period of time. To schedule an appointment at La Crosse Veterinary Clinic, contact us by calling (608) 781-3466 or use the online form. We can't wait to hear from you!
Uses for Ultrasound
La Crosse Veterinary Clinic’s Doppler cat and dog ultrasound machine can be used for the following:
- Guided centesis (bladder, abdomen, chest, heart)
- Fast scan for emergency or acute illness
- Focus scan on a specific area (e.g., bladder, prostate, thyroid, lymph nodes, and esophageal masses
- Abdominal and/or chest scan
- Well-patient preventative scans
- Guided fine needle aspirate
- Guided biopsy
Consultation With a Cat and Dog Ultrasound Specialist
For difficult medical cases, we have the option of consulting with an internal medicine specialist during the ultrasound procedure. The cat or dog ultrasound consultation involves the veterinary specialist dialing into our system, allowing him/her to view the same images that our veterinarian sees. The specialist can control the viewing screen, take pictures and measurements throughout the ultrasound procedure, and direct our veterinarian to move the handheld transducer a specific direction. This real-time consultation allows our vets to obtain an accurate and timely second opinion without a specialist being physically in our clinic. If you have any questions about cat and dog ultrasounds, contact us today by calling (608) 781-3466.