Radiography (X-Rays)

Radiography, commonly known as X-rays, is an important diagnostic tool that allows veterinarians to see inside your pet's body without the need for surgery. At Bohle Veterinary Surgery, digital radiography helps us diagnose a wide range of conditions quickly and accurately, allowing us to provide the best possible care for your pet.

X-rays are commonly used to examine bones, joints, the chest, abdomen, and teeth, helping identify injuries, disease, and other health concerns that cannot be detected during a physical examination alone.

When Might My Pet Need X-Rays?

Your veterinarian may recommend radiographs to investigate a variety of conditions, including:

  • Lameness or limping
  • Suspected fractures or injuries
  • Arthritis and joint disease
  • Swallowed foreign objects
  • Vomiting or digestive problems
  • Breathing difficulties
  • Heart disease
  • Bladder stones
  • Pregnancy assessment
  • Dental disease
  • Unexplained pain or illness

Radiographs often provide valuable information that helps us diagnose problems and develop the most appropriate treatment plan.

How Do X-Rays Work?

X-rays use small amounts of radiation to create images of structures inside the body.

Different tissues absorb X-rays differently:

  • Bones appear white
  • Soft tissues appear in shades of grey
  • Air-filled structures such as the lungs appear darker

These images allow our veterinarians to assess internal organs, bones, joints, and other structures that cannot be seen from the outside.

Is Sedation or Anaesthesia Required?

Many pets can have radiographs performed while awake. However, some animals may require sedation or anaesthesia to help them remain still and comfortable during the procedure.

Sedation may be recommended if:

  • Your pet is painful
  • Multiple images are required
  • Precise positioning is necessary
  • Your pet is anxious or stressed
  • Orthopaedic studies are being performed

Keeping pets still is important because movement can reduce image quality and make diagnosis more difficult.

What Can X-Rays Show?

Bones and Joints

Radiographs are excellent for evaluating:

  • Fractures
  • Arthritis
  • Hip and elbow problems
  • Joint abnormalities
  • Bone infections
  • Some bone tumours

Chest (Thorax)

Chest radiographs can help assess:

  • Heart size and shape
  • Lung disease
  • Pneumonia
  • Fluid within the chest
  • Some cancers
  • Airway disorders

Abdomen

Abdominal radiographs may help identify:

  • Foreign bodies
  • Bladder stones
  • Enlarged organs
  • Some tumours
  • Pregnancy
  • Intestinal obstruction

Are X-Rays Safe?

Modern digital radiography uses very low doses of radiation and is considered extremely safe for pets.

Our team follows strict radiation safety guidelines and uses protective equipment whenever required.

The benefits of obtaining accurate diagnostic information generally far outweigh the minimal risks associated with radiography.

What Is the Difference Between X-Rays and Ultrasound?

Radiographs and ultrasound are often complementary diagnostic tools.

X-rays are best for examining:

  • Bones and joints
  • The chest and lungs
  • Foreign objects
  • Bladder stones

Ultrasound is best for examining:

  • Internal organs
  • Soft tissues
  • Fluid-filled structures
  • Pregnancy monitoring

In some cases, both imaging techniques may be recommended to obtain the most complete picture of your pet's health.

What Happens After the X-Rays?

Once the images have been taken, our veterinarians carefully review and interpret the results. In some cases, images may also be sent to a specialist radiologist for further assessment.

We will discuss the findings with you and explain any recommended treatment, monitoring, or additional testing.

Advanced Diagnostic Care

Radiography plays an important role in helping us diagnose illness, injury, and disease quickly and accurately. Combined with a thorough physical examination and other diagnostic tests, X-rays help us provide the highest standard of veterinary care for your pet.

If your pet is unwell, injured, or requires diagnostic imaging, contact Bohle Veterinary Surgery to arrange an appointment with our veterinary team.